Books matching: the nature of magic
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- #1
The Books of Magic by Neil Gaiman is a graphic novel that follows the story of Timothy Hunter, a young boy with the potential to become the most powerful magician on Earth. Introduced to the world of magic by four mysterious men - John Constantine, the Stranger, Dr. Occult, and Mr. E., Timothy embarks on a journey through past, present, alternate worlds, and the future of magic. Throughout the story, he faces the choice of embracing the magical world or rejecting it, encountering various DC Universe characters like Etrigan, Zatanna, and the Endless along the way. The plot is a blend of myth, fantasy, and coming-of-age elements, with a focus on the beauty and price of magic, as Timothy navigates the dangers and wonders of this new realm.
The graphic novel is praised for its gorgeous illustrations, compelling story, and the way it introduces readers to the magical realm of the DC Universe. Neil Gaiman's writing style shines through, offering a sense of the mythic and beautiful with an underlying current of danger that adds to the allure of the world of magic. The book is described as a captivating journey that not only explores Timothy's potential as a magician but also delves into the complexities of choice, destiny, and the power of imagination, making it a must-read for fans of fantasy and magic-themed narratives.
- #2
In the book 'The Real Boy' by Anne Ursu, readers are introduced to Oscar, a young boy who works as a Hand for the powerful magician Caleb in the protected city of Asteri. When mysterious events start to unfold, Oscar teams up with a new friend, Callie, to unravel the mysteries surrounding the city. The story is filled with magic, friendship, and unexpected twists, making it an engaging and well-written fantasy novel that keeps readers hooked until the very end.
Oscar, who is depicted as being on the autism spectrum, faces challenges in understanding social cues and interacting with others. Despite his struggles, he forms a strong bond with Callie and must use his unique skills to help solve the problems affecting the city. As the plot unfolds, readers are taken on a journey of self-discovery, bravery, and the power of friendship, culminating in a satisfying and unexpected ending that showcases the true essence of magic.
The residents of the gleaming hilltop town of Asteri called their home, simply, the City. The residents of the Barrow—the tangle of forest and darkness that encircled the bottom of Asteri’s hill like ... - #3
The Eye of the World, the first book in The Wheel of Time series by Robert Jordan, follows the epic journey of two young women and three young men as they leave their small village in the Two Rivers. The series introduces readers to a richly detailed world with a well-thought-out magic system and a diverse cast of characters. The plot is filled with adventure, danger, magic, darkness, and brave deeds, capturing the readers' imagination and keeping them on the edge of their seats.
The writing style in The Eye of the World is described as well-written, fast-paced, and engaging, with a richly detailed world that immerses readers into the story. The book sets the bar high for the rest of the series, delivering a stirring tale of small-town folk who find themselves embroiled in a frightening scenario beyond their wildest imaginations. Despite some comparisons to other fantasy stories, The Eye of the World is praised for being the beginning of a unique series that offers a fresh take on the epic fantasy genre.
The palace still shook occasionally as the earth rumbled in memory, groaned as if it would deny what had happened. Bars of sunlight cast through rents in the walls made motes of dust glitter where the... - #4
In "Circe" by Madeline Miller, readers are taken on a journey through Greek mythology from the perspective of the enchantress Circe. The book beautifully weaves together mythological cameos, showcasing a transformational arc for Circe as she evolves from a naive nymph to a powerful witch and reluctant mother. Through vivid storytelling, the author reimagines Circe's story, offering a fresh take on a character previously known for turning men into pigs in Homer's Odyssey.
When I was born, the name for what I was did not exist. They called me nymph, assuming I would be like my mother and aunts and thousand cousins. Least of the lesser goddesses, our powers were so modes... - #5
Many readers praise 'A Wizard of Earthsea' for its captivating story of Ged's journey from a reckless youth to a powerful sorcerer, facing his own darkness and embarking on a quest to restore balance in Earthsea. The book is described as a bildungsroman encased in a fantasy world, focusing on Ged's coming of age, his growth as a character, and the themes of power, pride, and redemption. Ursula K. Le Guin's writing style is commended for its richness, world-building, and ability to bring characters and places to life with poetic rhythm and philosophical wisdom.
The Island of Gont, a single mountain that lifts its peak a mile above the storm-racked Northeast Sea, is a land famous for wizards. From the towns in its high valleys and the ports on its dark narrow... - #6
'The Riddle-Master of Hed' by Patricia A. McKillip is the first installment in the Riddle-Master trilogy. It follows the journey of Morgon, the prince of Hed, who embarks on a quest to uncover the mysteries surrounding the three stars on his forehead and his destined role in the world. The story is set in a richly imagined world filled with magic, riddles, and complex characters. The writing style is described as ethereal and dreamy, with a mix of dialogue and narrative that seamlessly transitions between different tones and modes, keeping readers engaged and intrigued.
Morgon of Hed met the High One’s harpist one autumn day when the trade-ships docked at Tol for the season’s exchange of goods. A small boy caught sight of the round-hulled ships with their billowing s... - #7
Flex by Ferrett Steinmetz is a contemporary fantasy novel that follows Paul Tsabo, a new mage, as he navigates a world that fears and hates magic users. The story explores Paul's journey of coming to terms with his newfound powers, working to save his injured daughter, and facing allies and enemies who have their own agendas. The magic system in the book revolves around 'mancers, individuals who gain reality-shattering powers based on their obsessions, with Paul being a bureaucromancer obsessed with paperwork. The writing style is described as punchy, zingy, and rambunctious, blending family drama, satire, and social commentary with intense sequences of action and emotional depth.
“Aliyah!” He half-rose from the La-Z-Boy he’d drifted off in, then realized hopping about the apartment on one foot would be more likely to make Aliyah giggle than repent. Not that Aliyah was much on ... - #8
The Charwoman's Shadow by Lord Dunsany is a fantasy novel set in medieval Spain, following the journey of Ramon Alonzo, who apprentices with a magician to learn the art of turning stones into gold. The plot revolves around the consequences of losing one's shadow, as Ramon encounters an old charwoman who seeks his help in retrieving her shadow from the magician. The story is filled with mystical elements, dark legends, and a touch of humor, all presented in Dunsany's unique writing style that creates a world of enchantment and fantasy.
Picture a summer evening sombre and sweet over Spain, the glittering sheen of leaves fading to soberer colours, the sky in the west all soft, and mysterious as low music, and in the east like a frown.... - #9
"Shadowland" by Peter Straub is a horror novel that follows the story of two boys, Tom Flanagan and Del Nightingale, who meet at a private school and share a passion for magic tricks. The book is divided into three parts, with the first part set in the school where the boys face challenges from their peers. The second part takes place at Del's uncle's mansion, where they become apprentices to a retired magician. The third part delves into the battle between magicians in a space between reality and illusions. The plot is intriguing, with a mix of dark fantasy and horror elements, keeping readers engaged with twists and turns.
For various reasons the Carson School is now no longer the school it was, and it has a new name. Carson was a boys' school, old-fashioned and quirky and sometimes so stern it could turn your bowels to... - #10
'Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell' by Susanna Clarke is a mesmerizing blend of historical fiction and fantasy, set in an alternate version of nineteenth century England. The story follows two magicians, Mr. Norrell and Jonathan Strange, as they delve into the restoration of magic in England and eventually aid in the country's victory in the Napoleonic Wars. The book intricately weaves together intricate world-building, fascinating characters, and a plot that unfolds slowly but steadily, keeping readers engaged through its detailed descriptions and rich storytelling style.
The writing style of 'Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell' is described as dense, detailed, and somewhat long-winded, reminiscent of nineteenth-century literature. The author, Susanna Clarke, creates a world that is both captivating and immersive, with elements of humor, pointed digs, and a cynical outlook on the usefulness of magic. The book is known for its historical accuracy, extensive footnotes that add depth to the narrative, and its ability to transport readers to a world where magic and reality intertwine seamlessly.
They were gentleman-magicians, which is to say they had never harmed any one by magic – nor ever done any one the slightest good. In fact, to own the truth, not one of these magicians had ever cast th...