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Earthsea: The First Four Books

By Ursula Le Guin
Series: A Puffin Book
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Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Earthsea: The First Four Books by Ursula Le Guin follows the journey of a young mage named Ged as he grows and learns the nature of power and balance in the archipelago of Earthsea. The stories explore themes of self-discovery, wisdom, and the interplay of light and darkness in a richly detailed fantasy world. The characters encounter mythical creatures, face moral dilemmas, and undertake quests that shape their destinies.
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Format: Paperback / softback
$3200
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this collection if you appreciate masterful world-building, rich character development, and classic tales of magic and adventure. These stories offer profound explorations of ethics, self-discovery, and the balance of power, making them a rewarding read for fans of thoughtful and immersive fantasy.

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Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

A journey into the mystical and evocative archipelago of Earthsea, masterfully crafted by the acclaimed author Ursula K. Le Guin. In Earthsea: The First Four Books, readers are introduced to a world where magic is tangible and pervasive, guiding the lives and destinies of its inhabitants.

The narrative follows the arc of Ged, known also by his use-name Sparrowhawk, whose compelling tale begins as a young and impetuous dragonlord. Sent to the island of Roke, he is to be trained in the true ways of magic. There, Ged's raw talent is honed, shaping him into one of the most powerful magicians in the realm. Ged's evolution from a reckless youth to a wise and determined Archmage is gripping and profound.

Throughout his journey, Ged encounters formidable challenges, from battling ancient powers of darkness to navigating the delicate balance of life and death. He plays a pivotal role in aiding the High Priestess Tenar as she escapes the treacherous labyrinth that threatens to consume her. Each book weaves a distinct yet interconnected story, exploring themes of power, redemption, and the inevitable clash between the old ways of magic and the encroaching shadows of evil.

Le Guin's storytelling is rich and lyrical, drawing readers into the enchanting landscapes and the complex moral fabric of Earthsea. Her characters are deeply human, their struggles and growth paralleling the timeless battle between light and darkness.

Regarded alongside the works of Tolkien and C.S. Lewis, Earthsea: The First Four Books stands as a cornerstone in fantasy literature. It is a testament to Ursula K. Le Guin's imaginative prowess and literary genius, capturing the hearts and minds of readers across generations.

"One of the literary greats of the 20th century" - Margaret Atwood

Enter the world of Earthsea and lose yourself in a spellbinding tale of magic, courage, and the pursuit of wisdom.

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Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Earthsea: The First Four Books by Ursula Le Guin receives high praise for its rich storytelling and deep world-building. Readers appreciate the complex characters and the thoughtful exploration of themes such as power, identity, and balance. The prose is often described as lyrical and enchanting, making it a beloved classic in the fantasy genre.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780141370538

Publisher: Penguin Random House Children's UK

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 07 July 2016

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Puffin

Contributors:

  • Illustrated by Ngadi Smart

Audience: Children

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 56.0mm

Width: 127.0mm

Height: 197.0mm

Weight: 623g

Pages: 912

Collections

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About the Author

Ursula Le Guin was born in Berkley, California, in 1929, daughter of the writer Theodora Krober and the anthropologist Alfred Krober. Her published work includes twenty-one novels, eleven volumes of short stories, three collections of essays, twelve books for children, six volumes of poetry and four of translation. Among her novels are the The Left Hand of Darkness and The Dispossessed, both winners of the Nebula and Hugo awards, Always Coming Home, winner of the 1985 Kafka Award, and Four Ways to Forgiveness. In 2009 she won her sixth Nebula award for Powers. She died in January 2018 aged 88. Penguin/Puffin published the first volume of the Earthsea books, A Wizard of Earthsea, in 1971. The Earthsea books have been translated into many languages around the world and are global bestsellers.

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