The CHIMES OF ALYAFALEYN

Rating:
Summary: The Chimes of Alyafaleyn
Review: In the spirit of The Giver and The Alchemist, The Chimes of Alyafaleyn is a fantastical book that opens readers' (children AND adults) imaginations and hearts. The journey of the human spirit/consciousness is often better told in the context of an imaginary world. Chetwin understands the need for global consciousness and community. I imagine her a strong woman, a peace activist, clutching magic dust. It is a shame this gem is out of print. If you stumble upon this book, savor it and read it more than once. Read it to your children. And then ask your children to teach you something.

Rating:
Summary: Interesting Worldbuilding, Charming story
Review: This story has some fabulous ideas for a world in which the very foundations depend upon music. The music is created by the use of the musical spheres that the adults "snag" and the more control and spheres an adult can control, the more powerful he or she is. Thrown into this world are two misunderstood young people--Caidrun, a mercurial girl who has been an outcast since before she was born, and Tamborel, the boy who has steadfastedly remained her best friend.

This book makes for a wonderfully emotional coming of age story of these two protagonists. What the author does best is to create that emotional relationship that exists between Tamborel and Caidrun. The understanding and the value of friendship is appealing--this book will most likely interest sensitive young teens who are exploring facets of emotional interaction and enjoy fantasy settings.

Those who prefer action, or more complex world building may feel this story drags at times, and the story rather simplistic. There are many aspects of this world that are never expanded upon, and the characters other than the story's two protagonists never become fully realized. The adventures of Tamborel, therefore, come across as lackluster. And most of Caidrun's adventures are skipped over entirely. Had the author spent some time on Caidrun's experiences from her POV, it might have made the story stronger.

Still, I very much enjoy this book for what it is. I am glad to have it in my collection.