I’ve been rereading books I loved when I was a child, after discussing old favorites in Banff.
The Owl Service, by Alan Garner, was strange, and a little oddly written. I would have recommended some editing at the beginning, but by the time I’d finished the story I changed my mind. I’d forgotten what I’d loved about it – that experience of being immersed in strangeness.
Swallows and Amazons, by Arthur Ransome, is a great story about kids who turn their daily lives into a pirate adventure. Again, I’d forgotten what it was that I adored about this story. I think it’s that leap into fantasy in their play.
My favorite new book is Witchlanders, by Lena Coakley. I loved this. I’m also deeply impressed by the quality of the story, as this is her first novel. I’d strongly recommend it as a Christmas gift for middle grade and teen lovers of fantasy.
Maureen