4.09
Part of "Earthsea Cycle" series
"The Tombs of Atuan" is the second book in Ursula K. Le Guin's Earthsea series, following "A Wizard of Earthsea." This novel is a coming-of-age story that follows the journey of Tenar, a young girl who is chosen to be the High Priestess of the Tombs of Atuan, a labyrinthine temple dedicated to the Nameless Ones, the dark powers of the Earthsea archipelago. Tenar, who is given the name Arha, or "the eaten one," is isolated and stripped of her former identity as she takes on her new role. However, her world is upended when she encounters Ged, the protagonist of "A Wizard of Earthsea," who has come to the Tombs in search of a stolen magical artifact. Through their interactions, Tenar begins to question her faith and the purpose of her life in the Tombs. Le Guin's lyrical prose and intricate world-building are on full display in "The Tombs of Atuan," as she explores themes of identity, power, and the nature of evil. The novel is a meditation on the ways in which individuals and societies are shaped by their beliefs and the power structures that uphold them. "The Tombs of Atuan" is a rich and rewarding read for both fans of the Earthsea series and newcomers to Le Guin's work. Its complex characters, vivid settings, and thought-provoking themes make it a standout work of fantasy literature that will continue to captivate readers for generations to come...
Ursula K. Le Guin
A Wizard of Earthsea
If you enjoyed the rich world-building and coming-of-age theme in 'The Tombs of Atuan', you'll love 'A Wizard of Earthsea'. This is the first book in the Earthsea series, where Le Guin introduces us to a young wizard named Ged, who must confront his own shadow after releasing it unknowingly.
Learn MoreUrsula K. Le Guin
The Left Hand of Darkness
For those who appreciated the thought-provoking themes and anthropological aspects in 'The Tombs of Atuan', 'The Left Hand of Darkness' is a must-read. Le Guin explores gender and society in a fascinating, wintry world, where inhabitants can choose and change their gender.
Learn MoreMarion Zimmer Bradley
The Mists of Avalon
If you were drawn to the religious and feminist themes in 'The Tombs of Atuan', you'll find 'The Mists of Avalon' captivating. This Arthurian legend is retold from the perspective of Morgaine, a priestess fighting to preserve the Old Religion.
Learn MoreUrsula K. Le Guin
The Dispossessed
Fans of Le Guin's philosophical and political insights in 'The Tombs of Atuan' will appreciate 'The Dispossessed'. This novel explores the culture clash between two planets with different socio-political systems: a rigid, capitalist society and an anarchist commune.
Learn MoreOctavia Butler
Kindred
If you were intrigued by the exploration of power dynamics and identity in 'The Tombs of Atuan', 'Kindred' is an excellent choice. Butler masterfully combines time travel and slavery in this gripping story of a modern black woman who is transported back in time to the antebellum South.
Learn MoreNeil Gaiman
American Gods
For readers who enjoyed the blend of mythology and contemporary settings in 'The Tombs of Atuan', 'American Gods' will be an engaging read. Gaiman weaves together ancient myths and modern life in a tale of a man who becomes entangled in a war between old and new gods.
Learn MoreStarhawk
The Fifth Sacred Thing
If you were inspired by the spiritual and ecological themes in 'The Tombs of Atuan', 'The Fifth Sacred Thing' is a great pick. This novel paints a picture of a sustainable, post-apocalyptic society that strives for harmony between humans and nature.
Learn MoreUrsula K. Le Guin
The Hainish Cycle
If you're captivated by Le Guin's world-building and cultural explorations in 'The Tombs of Atuan', dive into 'The Hainish Cycle'. This series of interconnected science fiction novels showcases Le Guin's talent for creating diverse alien cultures and societies.
Learn MoreN.K. Jemisin
The Broken Earth Trilogy
For those who appreciated the complex characters and richly imagined world in 'The Tombs of Atuan', 'The Broken Earth Trilogy' is a must-read. Jemisin's series explores a world facing repeated apocalypses and the people who live through them.
Learn MoreUrsula K. Le Guin
The Lathe of Heaven
Fans of Le Guin's speculative fiction and exploration of reality in 'The Tombs of Atuan' will enjoy 'The Lathe of Heaven'. This novel follows a man whose dreams change reality, and a psychologist who seeks to control his abilities.
Learn MoreMary Doria Russell
The Sparrow
If you were fascinated by the religious aspects and exploration of faith in 'The Tombs of Atuan', 'The Sparrow' is a compelling read. This novel tells the story of a Jesuit mission to another planet, where things quickly go awry.
Learn More