Master of Earth and Water

Rating:
Summary: Novelization of a Legend
Review: The strangest thing about this fantasy trilogy is that it is not a new story. It is both a retelling of an Irish folk legend and a modern fantasy trilogy, and it succeeds admirably as both. This series will appeal to Celtophiles and fantasy buffs everywhere, as well as those who simply enjoy a good story whatever the genre. The Gaelic names and place spellings lend it a taste of authenticity that may be deceptive, but enhance the cultural feel of the story.

This first book covers the childhood and coming of age of Fionn Mac Cumhal (Demne Mael as he is called in his childhood), the Irish hero and sage of legend. Fans of Ender's Game or other Orson Scott Card books will likely enjoy the saga of this boy, destined for greatness, finding his identity and coming into the legacy left by his parents. Card seems to excel in this sort of story, and this pair of authors do it quite well in this book.

The authors bravely struggle to fit into the story all the events that are attributed to Fionn in his lifetime, which sometimes happens at the cost of the fluidity of the story. This is rare, though, and for the most part, the story flows smoothly and interestingly. Where most folklore is told in a dry academic style, this telling is more immersed in the style of modern fiction, which is a very refreshing change. There should be more of its kind in the world.

Instead of a new story, the authors tell a good story and at the same time educate the reader in Irish folklore. A good series, and a fantastic legend retold in fascinating style. A good book if you can find it.