I am a fan of fantasy novels. One might even go so far as to label me an aficionado. One book that has been a favorite of mine in this genre for a couple of decades is the Ursula K. LeGuin story A Wizard of Earthsea.
A Wizard of Earthsea tells the early story of Ged, known as Sparrowhawk. The story is, in many ways, a coming of age tale that sees Ged transform from an arrogant child into a wise mage. A Wizard of Earthsea creates a wonderful world with a wonderful magical structure behind it.
Magic in Earthsea is not the result of a magical spell or wand, as it is so often displayed. In Earthsea, true magic comes from the true names of things. When you have the true name of an object, you have complete control over the object. A rock can be changed into a diamond, the elements can be controlled, and pure force can be wielded. This system not only provides something new to the fantasy world, it creates limits for those who would abuse it.
While short, A Wizard of Earthsea is a must-read for a fan of fantasty or adventure. Even if you’re just a fan of reading, Earthsea is truly entertaining.
-Because I said so
