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josh4167's review against another edition
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
2.0
chrisannee's review against another edition
5.0
Alexander's best work, by far. Which is probably why I didn't get how great it was when I first read it. But I relish the (albeit few) chances that I have to read it again. The first book is needed to establish the characters. This book is a turning point that ultimately sets up the future. You don't really need the following three. They're just a bonus.
rentheunclean's review against another edition
4.0
This book is better than the first one, in my opinion. The story has a more definite goal and the characters are less at the whims of chance, accomplishing more because of their abilities, rather than sheer luck.
I really liked the characters that were added in this book, especially Adaon and the various warlords of Prydain. I also liked Lloyd's handling of the various side characters who were not among the adventurers, but helped them along the way, such as the three witches.
The story of the Black Cauldron is more defined and makes slightly more sense than the story in the Book of Three. It is much less driven by random occurances and Taran and co. actually do things to drive the story along, rather than just going along.
If you liked the first book, you will like this one as much if not more.
I really liked the characters that were added in this book, especially Adaon and the various warlords of Prydain. I also liked Lloyd's handling of the various side characters who were not among the adventurers, but helped them along the way, such as the three witches.
The story of the Black Cauldron is more defined and makes slightly more sense than the story in the Book of Three. It is much less driven by random occurances and Taran and co. actually do things to drive the story along, rather than just going along.
If you liked the first book, you will like this one as much if not more.
georgewrfisher's review against another edition
adventurous
hopeful
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
1.5
jdubsmoore's review against another edition
5.0
Remember this one from the 80s movie, and I don't think it translated this beautiful story very well. It's a simple adventure tale, with lots of memorable characters. Was a fun, short, and satisfying read.
beautifulordinary's review against another edition
5.0
Man, so good.
This series is deceptive. The names are all odd and annoyingly similar, to my American sentiments. The first half of each book drags, and I struggle to gain momentum. With both books, I set it aside half way through to read another book, and then picked it up again grumblingly. And both times, the books shocked me with the excitement, depth, and goodness in the last half. Twice now, I've closed Lloyd Alexander's books with a deep sigh of contentment.
The theme of honor is entrenched throughout this whole book. In a way, the story is simply a frame for the significant lesson you're expected to walk away with. However, it doesn't feel the least bit preachy.
I've heard it said that fantasy writers fall into one of two catagories: those who write characters well and those who create worlds well. I feel that Alexander falls into the former category. While descriptions of the setting abound, he really shines in the way he depicts the characters, especially their growth. I want to know them all! Gurgi is my favorite. I, too, enjoy crunchings and munchings.
This series is deceptive. The names are all odd and annoyingly similar, to my American sentiments. The first half of each book drags, and I struggle to gain momentum. With both books, I set it aside half way through to read another book, and then picked it up again grumblingly. And both times, the books shocked me with the excitement, depth, and goodness in the last half. Twice now, I've closed Lloyd Alexander's books with a deep sigh of contentment.
The theme of honor is entrenched throughout this whole book. In a way, the story is simply a frame for the significant lesson you're expected to walk away with. However, it doesn't feel the least bit preachy.
I've heard it said that fantasy writers fall into one of two catagories: those who write characters well and those who create worlds well. I feel that Alexander falls into the former category. While descriptions of the setting abound, he really shines in the way he depicts the characters, especially their growth. I want to know them all! Gurgi is my favorite. I, too, enjoy crunchings and munchings.
fuzzypurplecows's review against another edition
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.5
pnw_best's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
emotional
hopeful
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
01abparsons03's review against another edition
4.0
4 star. I'm glad the lead is getting less annoying. And my word! The farther you get in this, the more you see the LOTR inspiration.