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Title: Elfstones of Shannara by Terry Brooks, Darrell K. Sweet ISBN: 0345285549 Publisher: Ballantine Books Pub. Date: September, 1990 Format: Mass Market Paperback Volumes: 1 List Price(USD): $7.99 |
Average Customer Rating: 4.67
Rating: 5
Summary: Simply Undescribable...
Comment: ...yet I feel I must try. This has got to be one of my favorite fantasy novels -- I can't remember how many times I've read it, and it still makes me cry every time. What distinguishes this book is that it has the power to make you cry even though you know it's the best ending possible, the only one that would do justice to the characters and their mission. It's a beautiful sadness, if that makes any sense.
Stop reading now if you don't want spoilers!
I definitely think this is the best of the Shannara series. The feeling of darkness and danger is pervasive, so it makes the glimpses of joy and affection even brighter by comparison. The most moving part for me is Wil and Amberle's growing and simple affection for each other in the midst of doubt and tension. Brooks doesn't spend much time writing about its development, yet it is the most genuine romance in the Shannara series. It actually leads to the betterment of both characters -- they grow in self-awareness and help each other face their fears. This romance serves as a means of helping both become who they were always meant to be; it's not put in there for the sex, as unfortunately occurs in too many fantasy novels. This relationship is on a higher, deeper, spiritual level. You can't help but feel for two people who have found each other and themselves, only to lose each other as they save the world.
The book has its occasional stylistic flaws, but the only thing I truly regret (Amberle's transformation isn't regrettable, only beautifully poignant) is how quickly Wil ends up with Eretria. I understand they felt attraction for each other throughout, (and you can't help but feel sorry for Eretria even while you love how Wil and Amberle have found each other), but only a week after Amberle's transformation, they leave together. I think it should take Wil longer to get over his emotions. I also wish Amberle could have "talked" to Wil one more time as the Ellcrys -- we know the Ellcrys can do that.
I can't decide, in the end, how I feel about Wil and Eretria. It's right that Wil doesn't feel guilt and despair forever, but I think it's a bit too soon.
Among the other characters, I think Ander was also extremely well done. He is a moving portrayal of a king's younger son, overlooked but loyal, and I think it's wonderful how he grows into his future as king. His loyalty to Amberle is also one of his strengths. Allanon seems more human here than he appeared in SOS -- he seems to regret more the necessity of what he must do.
I wish we could have a point of view from Amberle, the Ellcrys, after her transformation, in this book or a later one about Shannara. I keep on waiting for even one comment about her sacrifice to pop up.
Of course, it would probably make me cry all over again. But it would be worth it. =)
Rating: 5
Summary: Excellent read!
Comment: I love this book, it is one of Brooks best pieces of literary genius. I often think on this story when reading all the later novels. Every time the great tree is mentioned I feel a pang in my heart for Amberle, her end was so pitiful (or begining?). I honestly have to say that my eyes teared when I read the last few chapters, and that was first and last time that happened while reading....and I've read alot of books. Sometimes I hope to hear a brief mention of her sacrifice (expected it briefly in the first of the Jerle Shannara books), but alas no such luck. I recommend this book to all fantasy fans, because I know all Brooks fans have read it already, lol. It was for Mr. Brooks his "The Empire Strikes Back".....that end that you feel just shouldn't happen but does, and then makes you crave more. Sorry Tolkien fans, but I just didn't get that kind of feeling from LOTR....forgive me(sin).......lol.
Rating: 5
Summary: A personal favorite of mine
Comment: My addiction to the world of Shannara started a long time ago with the Sword of Shannara (original one with the Brothers Hildebrant picture in the middle) and still continues to this day.
Elfstones has and will always be one of my favorites though. The internal struggles Wil goes through along with the struggles the Elves face with the collapse of the wall that keeps the demons out makes for a wonderful plot and Terry Brooks does a great job in telling his story.
Not many books can bring a tear to my eye but the sacrafice made at the end did the first time and still does with every re-read.
I had a chance to meet Mr. Brooks at a small book signing for Elf Queen. He took the time to talk to me and the others there and has a genuine love for his work and it shows in his writing.
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Title: Sword of Shannara by Terry Brooks ISBN: 0345314255 Publisher: Ballantine Books Pub. Date: May, 1995 List Price(USD): $7.99 |
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Title: First King of Shannara by Terry Brooks ISBN: 0345396537 Publisher: Del Rey Pub. Date: March, 1997 List Price(USD): $7.99 |
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Title: The Scions of Shannara by Terry Brooks ISBN: 0345370740 Publisher: Del Rey Pub. Date: June, 1993 List Price(USD): $7.99 |
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Title: The Druid of Shannara by Terry Brooks ISBN: 0345375599 Publisher: Del Rey Pub. Date: March, 1992 List Price(USD): $7.99 |
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Title: The Talismans of Shannara by Terry Brooks ISBN: 0345386744 Publisher: Del Rey Pub. Date: March, 1994 List Price(USD): $7.99 |
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