4.2
Part of "Riddle-Master" series
"Harpist in the Wind" by Patricia A. McKillip is a captivating high fantasy novel that takes readers on a journey through the magical land of Hed. The story follows a young harpist named Liadan who, after a mysterious encounter with a dying man, finds herself bestowed with a magical harp and the power to heal. McKillip's lyrical prose and intricate world-building create a rich and immersive reading experience. The author's use of vivid imagery and poetic language transports readers to a world filled with magic, mystery, and wonder. The characters are well-developed and relatable, with Liadan's journey of self-discovery and growth at the heart of the story. The novel explores themes of destiny, love, and the power of music, weaving them together in a way that is both enchanting and thought-provoking. McKillip's use of magical realism adds an element of surprise and delight, as the lines between reality and fantasy blur. "Harpist in the Wind" is a standalone novel, but it is also part of McKillip's larger Riddle-Master series. While it can be read on its own, readers who are familiar with the series will appreciate the connections and references to the larger world. Overall, "Harpist in the Wind" is a must-read for fans of high fantasy and magical realism. Its enchanting storytelling, rich world-building, and memorable characters make it a standout addition to any fantasy collection. McKillip's masterful use of language and themes will leave readers reflecting on the power of music, the importance of self-discovery, and the magic that exists in the world around us...
Frances Hodgson Burnett
A Little Princess
This is a classic children's novel about a young girl named Sara who is sent to a boarding school in London. Like 'Harpist in the Wind', this book explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the human spirit, and features a strong and determined female protagonist.
Learn MoreRobin McKinley
The Blue Sword
This fantasy novel tells the story of a young woman named Harry Crewe, who is drawn into a world of magic and adventure when she is chosen to wield the legendary Blue Sword. Like 'Harpist in the Wind', this book features a strong female protagonist and explores themes of identity, destiny, and the power of the human spirit.
Learn MoreRobin McKinley
The Hero and the Crown
This is the prequel to 'The Blue Sword' and tells the story of Aerin, the girl who would become the hero of the kingdom of Damar. Like 'Harpist in the Wind', this book features a strong female protagonist and explores themes of courage, determination, and the power of the human spirit.
Learn MoreUrsula K. Le Guin
The Tombs of Atuan
This is the second book in Le Guin's Earthsea series and tells the story of a young girl named Tenar, who is chosen to be the high priestess of the Tombs of Atuan. Like 'Harpist in the Wind', this book explores themes of identity, destiny, and the power of the human spirit, and features a strong and independent female protagonist.
Learn MoreUrsula K. Le Guin
The Farthest Shore
This is the third book in Le Guin's Earthsea series and follows the journey of the wizard Ged as he seeks to save the world from a terrible darkness. Like 'Harpist in the Wind', this book explores themes of magic, nature, and the human spirit, and features a strong and determined male protagonist.
Learn MoreUrsula K. Le Guin
A Wizard of Earthsea
This is the first book in Le Guin's Earthsea series and tells the story of a young boy named Ged, who discovers that he has the power to control the forces of nature. Like 'Harpist in the Wind', this book explores themes of magic, nature, and the human spirit, and features a strong and determined male protagonist.
Learn MoreRobin McKinley
The Hero and the Crown
This is a standalone fantasy novel about a young girl named Aerin who becomes a hero in her kingdom of Damar. Like 'Harpist in the Wind', this book features a strong female protagonist and explores themes of courage, determination, and the power of the human spirit.
Learn MoreRobin McKinley
The Blue Sword
This is a standalone fantasy novel about a young woman named Harry Crewe who becomes a hero in her adopted country of Damar. Like 'Harpist in the Wind', this book features a strong female protagonist and explores themes of identity, destiny, and the power of the human spirit.
Learn MoreO. Henry
The Gift of the Magi
This is a short story about a young couple who make sacrifices to buy each other Christmas gifts. Like 'Harpist in the Wind', this story explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the human spirit, and features a strong and determined male and female protagonist.
Learn MoreFrances Hodgson Burnett
The Secret Garden
This is a classic children's novel about a young girl named Mary who discovers a secret garden on her uncle's estate. Like 'Harpist in the Wind', this book explores themes of nature, magic, and the human spirit, and features a strong and determined female protagonist.
Learn More