4.25
Part of "The Chronicles of Prydain" series
"The High King" by Lloyd Alexander is the fifth and final book in the beloved Chronicles of Prydain series. This young adult fantasy novel brings together the threads of the previous books, as Taran, the Assistant Pig-Keeper, and his companions embark on their final quest to save the land of Prydain from the evil Arawn. Throughout the series, Taran has grown from a headstrong and impulsive young boy into a brave and selfless leader. In "The High King," Taran must embrace his destiny and unite the people of Prydain against Arawn's army of darkness. Along the way, he learns valuable lessons about loyalty, friendship, and the true meaning of heroism. Alexander's world-building is exceptional, with a richly detailed and fully realized fantasy world that is both familiar and exotic. The characters are well-developed and relatable, with Taran's journey of self-discovery at the heart of the story. The themes of the novel are timeless, exploring the struggle between good and evil, the importance of courage and determination, and the power of friendship and love. "The High King" is a satisfying conclusion to the Chronicles of Prydain series, with a thrilling climax that is both emotionally resonant and action-packed. The novel is a must-read for fans of high fantasy and coming-of-age stories, and is sure to leave a lasting impression on readers of all ages. Overall, "The High King" is a beautifully written and compelling novel that showcases Alexander's talent for storytelling. Its themes of courage, loyalty, and friendship are timeless, and its richly detailed world and well-developed characters make it a standout in the genre. Highly recommended for fans of fantasy and adventure stories...
Lloyd Alexander
The Book of Three
If you enjoyed 'The High King', you might like to return to the beginning of the series and read 'The Book of Three', the first installment in Lloyd Alexander's Chronicles of Prydain. This book introduces readers to Taran, the Assistant Pig-Keeper, who goes on to become a great hero in the series. Fans of 'The High King' will appreciate the rich world-building, engaging characters, and exciting adventures that are the hallmarks of Alexander's writing.
Learn MoreUrsula K. Le Guin
A Wizard of Earthsea
Fans of 'The High King' who are looking for a standalone fantasy novel might enjoy 'A Wizard of Earthsea' by Ursula K. Le Guin. This book tells the story of Ged, a young wizard who must confront the shadow he has unleashed upon the world. Like 'The High King', 'A Wizard of Earthsea' features complex characters, a richly imagined world, and a thoughtful exploration of themes like identity, power, and responsibility.
Learn MoreRobin McKinley
The Hero and the Crown
Readers who enjoyed 'The High King' might also like 'The Hero and the Crown' by Robin McKinley. This book tells the story of Aerin, a princess who must prove herself as a warrior and a leader in order to save her kingdom from destruction. Like 'The High King', 'The Hero and the Crown' features a strong female protagonist, a richly imagined world, and a thrilling adventure.
Learn MoreT.H. White
The Sword in the Stone
Fans of 'The High King' who are interested in the legend of King Arthur might enjoy 'The Sword in the Stone' by T.H. White. This book tells the story of a young Arthur, who is known as Wart, and his education as a squire and a future king. Like 'The High King', 'The Sword in the Stone' features a richly imagined world, engaging characters, and a thrilling adventure.
Learn MoreT.H. White
The Once and Future King
Readers who enjoyed 'The High King' and 'The Sword in the Stone' might want to continue exploring the legend of King Arthur with 'The Once and Future King' by T.H. White. This book tells the story of Arthur's reign as king, his marriage to Guinevere, and the events that lead to the fall of Camelot. Like 'The High King', 'The Once and Future King' features a richly imagined world, engaging characters, and a thrilling adventure.
Learn MoreJ.R.R. Tolkien
The Hobbit
Fans of 'The High King' who are looking for a classic fantasy novel might enjoy 'The Hobbit' by J.R.R. Tolkien. This book tells the story of Bilbo Baggins, a hobbit who embarks on an adventure to reclaim a stolen treasure from a dragon. Like 'The High King', 'The Hobbit' features a richly imagined world, engaging characters, and a thrilling adventure.
Learn MoreJ.R.R. Tolkien
The Lord of the Rings
Readers who enjoyed 'The Hobbit' and 'The High King' might want to continue exploring the world of Middle-earth with 'The Lord of the Rings' by J.R.R. Tolkien. This epic fantasy tells the story of Frodo Baggins, a hobbit who must destroy a powerful ring in order to save Middle-earth from the dark lord Sauron. Like 'The High King', 'The Lord of the Rings' features a richly imagined world, engaging characters, and a thrilling adventure.
Learn MoreRae Carson
The Girl of Fire and Thorns
Readers who enjoyed 'The High King' and are looking for a young adult fantasy novel with a strong female lead might enjoy 'The Girl of Fire and Thorns' by Rae Carson. This book tells the story of Elisa, a princess who is chosen by God to fulfill a great destiny and must navigate the dangerous world of politics and war in order to save her kingdom. Like 'The High King', 'The Girl of Fire and Thorns' features a strong female protagonist, a richly imagined world, and a thrilling adventure.
Learn MoreKristin Cashore
Graceling
Readers who enjoyed 'The High King' and are looking for a young adult fantasy novel with a strong female lead might also enjoy 'Graceling' by Kristin Cashore. This book tells the story of Katsa, a graceling (someone with a special skill) who must use her gift to protect her kingdom from a dangerous plot. Like 'The High King', 'Graceling' features a strong female protagonist, a richly imagined world, and a thrilling adventure.
Learn MoreRobin McKinley
The Blue Sword
Readers who enjoyed 'The High King' and are looking for a standalone young adult fantasy novel might enjoy 'The Blue Sword' by Robin McKinley. This book tells the story of Harry Crewe, a young woman who is chosen by a legendary sword to become a hero and save her kingdom from destruction. Like 'The High King', 'The Blue Sword' features a strong female protagonist, a richly imagined world, and a thrilling adventure.
Learn More