Reviews

The Book of Three by Lloyd Alexander

raven_morgan's review against another edition

4.0

I didn't connect strongly with any of the characters (possibly simply a result of my age, and of having read a *lot* of fantasy with more developed characters), but the world is just magical.

norvis13's review against another edition

4.0

An excellent short, classical children's fantasy adventure. Alexander's take on Welsh mythology is engaging, and his story moves fluidly from one location to the other. Taran can be a bit much for adult readers to take (does he ever do anything right?!), and I hope to discover that in later books the relationship between him and Eilonwy is given more depth and nuance. The book is VERY much classical fantasy--heteronormative, all-white, etc.--but they're an entertaining read, tackle some actually dark themes sensitively, and are suitable for children.

ldgraca's review against another edition

adventurous lighthearted medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

12dejamoo's review against another edition

adventurous medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

My mum read me these when I was younger and I loved them but I couldn't remember too much about them, except for what is the same in the Disney film. So it was really fun to revisit this series as an adult.

I think the main takeaway is that Eilonwy is my favourite I love her so much. Taran is also great if a bit naïve, but that's okay he'll grow. I love the book version of Fflewddur as compared to the character in the film.

Excited to start the next book.

elfinedaze's review against another edition

3.0

2.5 stars! this was interesting but not interesting enough for me to continue the series.

ajtremel's review against another edition

adventurous hopeful lighthearted fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? No
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.0

Just like an easy read with a good enough plot.

hoopoebird's review against another edition

3.0

Definitely an easy read - made me smile, made me laugh. It kept reminding me of the Lord of the Rings, and even at one point The Neverending Story. I wish it had been a bit more original. An enjoyable read, but I won't be continuing with the series.

vhenderson93's review against another edition

5.0

I'm late posting this review, but that doesn't dampen how much I enjoyed this story.

I grew up watching Disney's, The Black Cauldron. It's one of those underrated, overlooked movies but I always loved it. Imagine my surprise when I found out that the movie is based off a 5 book series! I started it right away, eager to revisit a classic in a new way.

Comparing the movie to the book- I loved both of them in their own way. The plot is slightly different and there's a few new characters but overall, it's fantastic! Disney did a great job of sticking with the main character's attitudes and personalities. Gurgi! A teddy bear/child's version of Gollum, he is my favorite character, closely followed by Gwydion.

Everything about this book was wonderful. I was drawn to the characters' mission, their victories and failures. As I write this, I have the sequel, The Black Cauldron, sitting beside me.

cosmicrusalka's review against another edition

5.0

I shouldn't be surprised that this is nothing like Disney's The Black Cauldron movie, but I enjoyed this book very much regardless. It was a fun world, fun characters, fun adventure, and strong LOTR vibes. 

harlando's review against another edition

3.0

I read this book mostly to get to book #2 in the series, The Black Cauldron, which was the inspiration for one of my favorite childhood movies. The Book of Three is ok. It has some fun ideas. I want to own an oracular pig just to find out if it produces prophetic bacon. There are also some memorable and well written characters. I found the dialogue to pretty good. The major weak points are some believability problems. I have no problem accepting the dwarves, magic, oracular pigs, and direct interference of gods, but when the skinny, clumsy protagonist crosses swords with the huge and incredibly fearsome villain and holds his own I am skeptical. Fantasy writing is funny like that.

I'm looking forward to the next book.