The Book of Three

Book of Three book review
Synopsis
Book 1 of 5 in the Prydain Chronicles. Blending rich elements of Welsh legends and universal mythology, from the imaginary kingdom of Prydain comes a tale of enchantment, both good and evil, and of the Assistant Pig Keeper who wants to become a hero. In an enthralling chronicle, Taran, Assistant Pig Keeper to a famous oracular sow, sets out on a hazardous mission to save Prydain from the forces of evil. He meets adventures in which humor and high valor are blended--for this is fantasy that is rooted in reality and truth. As Mr. Alexander says: "Most of us are called on to perform tasks far beyond what we believe we can do. Our capabilities seldom match our aspirations, and we are often woefully unprepared. To this extent, we are all Assistant Pig Keepers at heart."
  • Virtue
    VIRTUE
    Is this the way I want my child to think and act?
    Ratings are based on how much a book extols Islamic morality and espouses classical ideals.
  • Language
    LANGUAGE
    Is this the way I want my child to speak?
    Ratings are based on a book's vocabulary, cadence, and overall eloquence suited to age level.
  • Story
    STORY
    Does this story resonate with my child?
    Ratings are based on the integrity of plot structure, the depth of characters, the palpability of the book's conflict and resolution, and the lure of its setting.
  • Beauty
    BEAUTY
    Does this book develop my child's ability to recognize beauty?
    Ratings are based on aesthetics, linguistic beauty, poignancy, and how well a book embodies ihsan—harmonizing excellence.
VIEW FLAGS
Mindful Muslim Review

Bored of his mundane life as a pig keeper, Taran longs for adventure and excitement. As his life finally takes a more tantalizing turn, Taran gains self-awareness and strives to overcome his weaknesses. He maintains humility and adab with others, focusing on their strengths rather than their weaknesses and showing them respect, the antithesis of arrogance (p. 184-185). His mentor, Prince Gwydion, shines as an exemplary ruler, embodying the aspects of true leadership. In the Book of Three, Gwydion resists the temptations of eternal life and power offered by the evil queen, while struggling against hopelessness when he’s imprisoned and tortured. He realizes the pernicious effects of despair and overcomes it, emerging as a stronger, better leader. (p. 178)

Mindful Muslim Reader recommends Books 1-5 in this series.

Ages: ,
Publisher: Henry Holt and Company
Published: 1999 (originally published in 1964)
Page Count: 190
ISBN13: 9780805061321
*This review applies only to ISBN number noted above.

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