Books Like...

'The Telling' by Ursula K. Le Guin follows the story of Sutty, a Terran envoy of the Ekumen sent to the world of Aka. Aka is a planet transformed by the Corporation, a monolithic state that has outlawed the past and suppressed ancient beliefs and traditions. Sutty's mission is to learn and preserve 'The Telling,' the old faith of the Akans, amidst the societal changes brought about by contact with the Ekumen. Through Sutty's journey into the countryside and mountains, the reader explores the clash of cultures, the importance of tradition, and the impact of progress on a society's identity.

The narrative in 'The Telling' is described as spare, thoughtful, and beautiful, in line with Le Guin's signature style seen in her other Hainish novels. delves into themes of cultural suppression, the clash between modernization and tradition, and the consequences of societal change. With a focus on philosophical musings and deep insights into human psychology, the story provides a reflective exploration of how societies evolve, adapt, and grapple with the loss of their heritage.

'Tehanu' is the fourth book in the 'Earthsea Cycle' series by Ursula K. Le Guin. The book explores themes of women's power roles, fear of powerful women, and feminist perspectives. The story follows characters like Tenar, Ged, and Tehanu, delving into darker and more mature themes while intertwining elements of magic, power, and hope. Le Guin's writing style in this book is described as introspective, philosophical, and deeply personal, focusing on character development and exploring gender issues within the fantasy world of Earthsea.

'Tapping the Dream Tree' in the series 'Newford' by author Charles de Lint is a collection of 17 stories and 1 novella set in the magical city of Newford. The stories feature a mix of magic, music, humor, and dark tones, with familiar characters like Jilly and Christy making appearances. Readers are drawn into a world where the boundary between reality and magic is thin, and where characters navigate through urban settings filled with wonders big and small. The writing style is described as beautifully written, rich in detail, and immersive, making readers feel like they are among old friends by the end of the book.

The Tombs of Atuan, the second book in the Earthsea Cycle by Ursula K. Le Guin, follows the story of Tenar, a young woman who is taken from her family to become a priestess for dark powers. The book delves into themes of choice, good vs evil, and the journey of self-discovery. Set in a confined and dark atmosphere, the narrative focuses on Tenar's growth and her interactions with the wizard Ged, offering a unique perspective on the world of Earthsea. The writing style is described as elegant, with vivid imagery that creates a haunting and mysterious atmosphere, making the story engaging and thought-provoking.

The Farthest Shore is the third installment in the Earthsea Cycle series by Ursula K. Le Guin. The book follows the journey of the Archmage Ged, now older and accompanied by young Prince Arren, as they embark on a quest to discover the source of the draining of magic from their world. The story delves into themes of life, death, balance, and the consequences of seeking eternal life. Le Guin weaves a tale of adventure, philosophy, and introspection, taking the reader to the farthest reaches of the Earthsea world and beyond.

The book is characterized by its darker and more brooding tone compared to the previous installments. It introduces new elements such as dragons, magic, and lore while exploring the struggles faced by wizards and singers as they forget their magic and songs. The narrative is filled with allegorical and enigmatic writing, offering deep insights into the meaning of life, death, and the preservation of balance in the world of Earthsea.

"Lavinia" by Ursula K. Le Guin is a retelling of the Aeneid from the perspective of Lavinia, a character from Virgil's epic poem. The book delves into Lavinia's life before and after her marriage to Aeneas, exploring her visions, struggles, and interactions with the poet Virgil who narrates her story as he is dying. Le Guin's writing style brings to life the ancient setting of pre-Roman Italy, blending mythology, history, and fiction seamlessly.

Buffalo Gals, Won't You Come Out Tonight by Ursula K. Le Guin is a collection of short stories, including the titular novelette. The book follows a young girl who is lost in the desert after a plane crash and is taken care of by a variety of strange people and animals. The story is described as gentle, emotional, and influenced by Native American culture, drawing heavily from the native myths of the desert country of the USA Four Corners. The narrative weaves themes of parental neglect, CPTSD, spiritual leanings, and the conflict between the human and non-human world.

Le Guin's writing style is praised for being straightforward yet lyrical, creating a fantastic tale that combines elements of magical realism and surrealism. The book is enhanced by the mystical illustrations provided by Susan Seddon Boulet, which bring the story to life with a gentle mystical quality. Readers appreciate the depth of the storytelling, the wisdom contained within the narrative, and the way the book transports them to a world hidden from everyday life.

Dreams Underfoot by Charles de Lint is an anthology of urban fairy tales set in the imaginary city of Newford. The stories blur the threshold between reality and faerie, introducing readers to mythical creatures and magical elements hidden in the shadows of everyday life. The collection features interconnected short stories with recurring characters, offering a blend of myth, folklore, and fairytales set against the backdrop of 90s street culture and art. De Lint's writing style is described as poetic, vivid, and haunting, with a focus on character development and creating a sense of magic within a realistic urban setting.

Shadows by Robin McKinley is a YA fantasy novel set in a world where magic coexists with technology. The story follows Maggie, a teenage girl who lives in Newworld, a place where magic is banned. When Maggie's mother marries Val, a man from Oldworld with mysterious shadows following him, Maggie's life takes a dramatic turn. As Maggie navigates her complicated relationships and discovers her own magical abilities, she unravels secrets about her stepfather and the true nature of magic in her world. The writing style is described as engaging, with elements of teenage angst, romance, and relatable characters that bring depth to the story.

'Dangerous Skies' by Suzanne Fisher Staples is a gripping tale that delves into themes of racism, friendship, and loyalty. The story follows the lives of two young friends, Buck and Tunes, who are faced with the harsh realities of prejudice in their community. When a tragic event unfolds, the duo must navigate through a web of deceit and danger, all while trying to protect their friendship and innocence. Set against the backdrop of the Chesapeake Bay, the book intricately weaves together a narrative that sheds light on the complexities of relationships in a racially divided society.

As the mystery surrounding a suspicious death unravels, Buck and Tunes find themselves at the center of a tumultuous storm that tests their bond and challenges their beliefs. The narrative is driven by the characters' unwavering determination to seek justice and confront the harsh truths of the world they inhabit. Staples' writing style captivates readers from the very beginning, painting a vivid picture of the characters' struggles and triumphs in a world where prejudice and love collide.