A review by amandabock
The Islands of the Blessed by Nancy Farmer
3.0
I love the way Nancy Farmer blends folklore with adventure, linking together all kinds of old tales. However, it's less effective when the tales are more obscure, simply because you miss all the cool things she's doing. This installment lacked excitement. Plot elements came out of nowhere, and all was wrapped neatly with a bow at the end. I miss Olaf One-Brow.
What I appreciate most about this series is how many characters are a mixture of horrible and honorable characteristics. For instance, the Northmen are blood-thirsty pillagers, but are also incredibly loyal and brave. If they are to be your allies, you must accept the bad with the good. I'm noticing villains like this in other books as well, and am wondering if it's a new trend that reflects a more inclusive world view.
What I appreciate most about this series is how many characters are a mixture of horrible and honorable characteristics. For instance, the Northmen are blood-thirsty pillagers, but are also incredibly loyal and brave. If they are to be your allies, you must accept the bad with the good. I'm noticing villains like this in other books as well, and am wondering if it's a new trend that reflects a more inclusive world view.