Rating: 
Summary: Lovely, but Lyrical?
Review: Thirty-seven years ago, the Pelloir House of the Basilisk wiped out the Trevalyn House of the Griffin - all except for the heir to the house. Now, having finally come to grips with himself, Rook Caladrius (nee Griffin Tormalyne) sets out from the Bard's Island of Luly to confront his past. Involving intrigue, adventure, and a gripping set of characters, Song for the Basilisk is an excellent read, whether you've read McKillip before or are a long-time fan.Alas, there are a few drawbacks to the book. McKillip's intention, as the title suggests, is an exploration of music upon the world. However, McKillip falls short of her mark, often wandering off to explore fabrics, color, art and language over the effect of tone and harmony. On the positive side, however, "Song for the Basilisk" is one of McKillip's few novels that does *not* include a completely incomprehensible ending (no "opening the mouth and speaking leaves" or some such interesting but utterly confusing image) - making this book an excellent introduction for the first time McKillip reader. Recommended for everyone, particularly lovers of McKillip's other works, those who enjoy Robin McKinley's style, and those searching for political fantasy.
Rating: 
Summary: McKillip's prose is her music
Review: While the plot may seem standard (exile comes back to his homeland to reclaim/set right his heritage), McKillip wraps original layers to move the story. Her understanding of music is solid from both sides-both Griffin's, and the teacher, Giulia. Ultimately, the greatest lesson of the book comes not from music, but from the one thing never covered in fantasy-the power of forgivness.
| 
