A Wizard of Earthsea by Ursula K. Le GuinMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is going to be a very short review, as there were only three things, really, that stood out to me.
The first, and I will forever gush about this, the use of language is exceptional. I think a lot of modern writers can sometimes forget how wonderful language can be. They forget that prose can read like poetry; the importance of rhythm and flow, how words can dance.
The enchantment that is the musicality of word choice is far too often overlooked. Plain language has its function, but there is something to be said for delighting in language, and this book does that for me. I loved it. It was a joy to read.
I also really loved the deep friendship the protagonist has with Vetch. That kind of friendship, filled with genuine affection, is really lacking in literature of this nature (particularly in more modern pieces). It presents a masculinity that counterbalances the usual, toxic descriptions of masculinity; gentle and loving.
My one gripe is the final confrontation. It seemed to be over in a sentence or two, and I really wanted more from it. Not more explosions or anger or fighting, necessarily, but a more thorough dive into what it is to embrace the dark, frightening parts of oneself.
All in all, a fantastic, quick read. I would highly recommend this book.
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