If on a winter's night a traveler

Average customer rating:

one of the great modern experiments with the novel

Lightning quick and smooth

Strange but beautifuly strange

'Literature' vs. 'Fiction', the smack-down

A fabulous fabulist for the patient traveler

If on a winter's night a traveler
Italo Calvino
Manufacturer: Harvest Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0156439611

Amazon.com

If on a Winter's Night a Traveler is a marvel of ingenuity, an experimental text that looks longingly back to the great age of narration--"when time no longer seemed stopped and did not yet seem to have exploded." Italo Calvino's novel is in one sense a comedy in which the two protagonists, the Reader and the Other Reader, ultimately end up married, having almost finished If on a Winter's Night a Traveler. In another, it is a tragedy, a reflection on the difficulties of writing and the solitary nature of reading. The Reader buys a fashionable new book, which opens with an exhortation: "Relax. Concentrate. Dispel every other thought. Let the world around you fade." Alas, after 30 or so pages, he discovers that his copy is corrupted, and consists of nothing but the first section, over and over. Returning to the bookshop, he discovers the volume, which he thought was by Calvino, is actually by the Polish writer Bazakbal. Given the choice between the two, he goes for the Pole, as does the Other Reader, Ludmilla. But this copy turns out to be by yet another writer, as does the next, and the next.

The real Calvino intersperses 10 different pastiches--stories of menace, spies, mystery, premonition--with explorations of how and why we read, make meanings, and get our bearings or fail to. Meanwhile the Reader and Ludmilla try to reach, and read, each other. If on a Winter's Night is dazzling, vertiginous, and deeply romantic. "What makes lovemaking and reading resemble each other most is that within both of them times and spaces open, different from measurable time and space."

Book Description

Calvino shows that the novel, far from being a dead form, is capable of endless mutations. If on a winter’s night a traveler turns out to be not one novel but ten, each with a different plot, style, ambience, and author. Translated by William Weaver. A Helen and Kurt Wolff Book

Customer Reviews:

one of the great modern experiments with the novel.......2007-06-19

Italo calvino's fascinating study of the novel which confronts the reader in a very direct fashion is one of the best books of the last 50 years.. It is right up in the same category as marquez' 'one hundred years of solitude', in my humble opinion.. Despite the constant shifting and shuffling of stories the book somehow maintains a whole, a brilliant structure.. I would highly recommend this book for anyone willing to delve into the form of the novel and how different stories can be told simultaneously and actually increase your love of reading..

Lightning quick and smooth.......2007-04-22

Great collection of short apocrypha, told parallel to a love story between two readers; Calvinos self-referential style and the breadth of the vignettes makes this a quick read with memorable results.

Strange but beautifuly strange.......2007-04-22

WOW what a strange book!
I mean, have you ever thought about how huge your reading passion is? To be honest I didn't. Of course I love to read and on question "Without what you can imagine your life?" my answer always includes books but what would you do (not in literally of course) to find your missing book and to heal your reading fever? I'm not sure I ever felt that agonizing reading fever - until now. I know sounds silly but let me explain:

Of course when you enjoy enormously in book you're reading you'll finish it in one swallow and maybe (probably) reread some of its parts or entire book; maybe you'll copy some quote in your special notebook and memorize them etc. and that is I guess normal destiny after meeting right book with right reader. But imagine this situation: You're reading one of the best books you've ever read and you're aware of that fact so you're eating, drinking, breathing pages, one after another; film is rolling in your mind, you thinking about surprise on the next page and you're running to see what is behind the corner and then ... nothing... blank wall, no streets, no cars, no people, no nothing ... blank page.... OK maybe this is printing error, maybe after that blank page the story will continue ... imagine that state of mind: no rereading, no quotes, no following of your new friends destiny. You're feeling cheated. Isn't that horrible? Oh it is, it is...
And this book is about that sudden emptiness you're feeling and that desperate search to find next page. And yes, the main character is "You" (dear reader), and yes precisely you are feeling tachycardia and yes your blood pressure is rising in that dark, surreal chase ... for a book (imagine this!)

This postmodern novel is some sort of reader's nightmare, always in search for your book or women (or both), or feeling writer's agony. This book is from time to time dark, totally surrealistic, and breathtakingly inventive. Did I mention that "You" are the main protagonist?

With its 260 pages some might think it's easy, light read but no, not easy read at all; sometimes you just need to rest a little bit to digest all what you eat so far (and it's a quite menu), this book is for savoring, for letting each sentence to melt slowly on your tongue. Or that is case with me who doesn't read several novels in the same time. However for some of you who practice that, reading this book will be, most likely, different experience.

Here I'd like to include one quote I like very much:

"Reading is always this: there is a thing that is there, a thing made of writing, a solid, material object, which cannot be changed, and through this thing we measure ourselves against something else that is not present, something else that belongs to the immaterial, invisible world, because it can only be thought, imagined, or because it was once and is no longer, past, lost, unattainable, in the land of the dead...
... Or that is not present because it does not yet exist, something desired, feared, possible or impossible. Reading is going toward something that is about to be, and no one yet knows what it will be"

'Literature' vs. 'Fiction', the smack-down.......2007-04-11

This is a tough book to review. In part because I'm not sure how I feel about it. It's one part interesting, one part dull, and one part vexing. Sadly, the first chapter was the absolute best, and the humor and fun found there is not carried throughout the rest of the book. It's not that I mind the starting and stopping of numerous story snippets. The fact that those tales were not complete does not really bother me, though that may be because I only found one or two even remotely engaging, and several of them downright dull or just plain weird. Throughout the book you're told about how these stories end at climactic moments, leaving you wanting more - but for the most part, I felt relief when those bits were over, because I felt they were but a brief interruption into the `main' story. And I felt that the `main' story was working towards something, until I got about 2/3 or the way through and it took a detour through Weirdsville from which it never returned. The `falsehoods' and `lies' bits and secret police upon secret police and the spy who might be her, but maybe not, but what does it matter... Oh, for god's sake just tell a story! Get. To. The. Point. Oh, that's right, there wasn't one. In the end, I have to say that the very last bit (about the only two ways a story could end, and `your' abrupt decision) was cute, but certainly not the culmination I had hoped for. It never really tied itself up, or came to a coherent point. It just... ends.

If blogging had been around in Calvino's time I would have said that this book was nothing more than a way he strung together a bunch of snippets written, perhaps, in response to writing group prompts that he was proud of, but didn't really see how to develop. Then he gave all the bits titles that would work (that was, I admit, clever) and threw them into the middle of a story - a weird story - that waxed poetic about readers, writers, and counterfeiters.

Now, it wasn't all bad. Very few books get that distinction, though I have read a few. The translator deserves a huge round of applause for making the text flow so very well. Unless, of course, the original story in Italian is about Zombie Armadillos that decimate the human species. Then I'd say he didn't stay faithful in his translating (though I can't say I might not have found Zombie Armadillos a touch more interesting). But the words were very... smooth and creamy; flowing very masterfully. And if that is what you like in a book, then by all means, this is a great book. If you love language more than the actual stories it tells, this is a book for you.

In reading this book, and reading about readers, I did realize a bit about myself. When I read (at least, when I read a good book), I am almost transported into the story. I like books I can really get into. While I'm reading, the text is flowing around me, creating a picture and a setting in my mind. In that sense, I'm not so much concentrating on the language as much as the meaning. My head transforms the words into my own little movie, and I become engrossed in it. So you can just tell me, "You're in a meadow" and my mind creates a meadow. You do not need to go into beautiful flowing detail about all the flowers in the meadow. My mind puts them there, and I can `see' them, when you say "meadow." Move on to the point! This is a novel, a story, so tell it to me!

This is not to say I can't appreciate beautiful prose. In a paragraph, a good turn of phrase, or something short and pretty, yes, I love it as much as the next person. But to create a novel of it... no, that doesn't work for me. I need plot. If I don't get plot, my mind wanders into a plot of my own and I lose interest in the book. Then I'm just daydreaming.

This book was not for me, but it was well written, in terms of the language used. The plot was sadly lacking, and because of the odd 2nd person POV used throughout a lot of the book, you don't really get much of a sense of the characters. I would only recommend it to people who either 1) love language and the use of it more than the story or 2) think saying you read a book by Calvino would elevate you in literary status and make you look all smart-like. I hesitate to say I'm sorry I read it, but I would never ever-ever read anything by him again, even though this is not supposed to be representative of his work...

A fabulous fabulist for the patient traveler.......2007-03-31

My first impressions of this novel almost misled me into putting the book away for another, which I almost never do. It seemed that the writer was working too hard to be coy, cute, precious and intrusive with his readers and I resented it. When the artifice is overpowering, as I find is sometimes the case in reading Pynchon, then the literary value of the work seems somehow diminished. Fortunately, I was able to see Calvino as a fabulist for which more patience in the willing suspension of disbelief should be granted, much like Jose Saramago, for example, and my patience with Calvino was rewarded. After all, fables by their nature work within a structure where the artifice is simply inherent in the literary medium. Calvino turns upside-down the conventions of plot design and pushes its bounds until the reader understands that his apparently absurd story line unfolds much like life reveals itself. When he manages to pull off this effect and the artifice-laden fable assumes an astonishing versimilitude, then one has to give him credit for great invention in his narrative style and I do. "Myths and mysteries consist of impalpable little granules, like the pollen that sticks to the butterfly's legs; only those who have realized this can expect revelations and illuminations." (p. 254) If you believe that every novel must have a beginning, middle and end, then read Calvino patiently and enjoy the journey as well as the destination.

Wicked Deeds on a Winter's Night (The Immortals After Dark Series, Book 3)

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Wicked Deeds on a Winter's Night (The Immortals After Dark Series, Book 3)
Kresley Cole
Manufacturer: Pocket Star
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

Contemporary | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

General | Romance | Subjects | Books

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ASIN: 1416547037

Book Description

Her breathless kiss haunts him...

Bowen MacRieve of the Lykae clan was nearly destroyed when he lost the one woman meant for him. The ruthless warrior grew even colder, never taking another to his bed -- until a smoldering encounter with his enemy, Mariketa the Awaited, reawakens his darkest desires. When sinister forces unite against her, the Highlander finds himself using all his strength and skill to keep her alive.

His slow, hot touch is irresistible...

Temporarily stripped of her powers, Mari is forced to take refuge with her sworn adversary. It's rumored that no one can tempt Bowen's hardened heart, but soon passion burns between them. Though a future together is impossible, she fears he has no intention of letting her go.

No deed is too wicked for her seduction...

If they defeat the evil that surrounds them, can Mari deny Bowen when he demands her body and soul -- or will she risk everything for her fierce protector?

Book Description

They won their first real battle in the war for Krynn, but the war has only just begun for the Companions! Friendships born in conflict will be torn apart. Hope will rest on the shoulders of a disgraced Knight and his two inexperienced companions. Worlds long divided by hatred and prejudice will either band together in a last struggle against darkness - or perish for all time.

Customer Reviews:

Must own for anyone!.......2007-06-27

I only hope the movie comming out based on this very Graphic Novel is as well put together! head over to Dragonlance movie dot com

Just wow... a faithful adaptation........2007-05-12

This graphic novel is beautifully done. The artists paint in pictures what Weis and Hickman did with words all those years ago. Devil's Due deserves a lot of credit for getting quality artists who have stayed true to the story of Dragonlance. I'm really getting stoked for the first movie, out in September.

Dragons of Winter Night (Dragonlance: Dragonlance Chronicles)

Average customer rating:

"Nine they were, under the three moons"
The Separation Of Races - The Discoveries Of Ancient Weapons
Gates of Paladine...last hope
Excellent Follow Up
My favorite Chronicle book

Dragons of Winter Night (Dragonlance: Dragonlance Chronicles)
Margaret Weis , and Tracy Hickman
Manufacturer: Wizards of the Coast
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

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ASIN: 0786916095
Release Date: 2000-04-01

Amazon.com

Dragons of Autumn Twilight sets 'em up, and Dragons of Winter Night knocks 'em down. The second volume in Dragonlance's seminal trilogy stokes the action with a big ol' blast of dragon breath. The War of the Lance has begun in earnest, and the Companions--Tanis, Flint, the twins Raistlin and Sturm, Flint Fireforge, Goldmoon, et al.--find themselves separated across Ansalon. Everyone's figured out that Takhisis's dragon minions aren't just scary bedtime stories, and the desperate search for the Dragon Orbs and the mythical Dragonlance is on. Lots of great combat, some humor and romance sprinkled in, and more solid character development for this complex band (especially Tanis and Laurana). An excellent follow-up bookended by cliffhangers--check out Dragons of Spring Dawning to see what happens next. --Paul Hughes

Book Description

Now the people know that the dragon minions of Takhisis, Queen of Dragons, have returned. The people of all nations prepare to fight to save their homes, their lives, and their freedom. But the races have long been divided by hatred and prejudice. Elven warriors and human knights fight among themselves. It seems the battle has been lost before it begins.

The companions are separated, torn apart by war. A full season will pass before they meet again--if they meet again. As the darkness deepens, a disgraced knight, a pampered elfmaiden, and a rattle-brained kender stand alone in the pale winter sunlight.

Not much in the way of heroes.

Customer Reviews:

"Nine they were, under the three moons".......2007-06-22

"Under the autumn twilight:
As the world declined, they arose
Into the heart of the story."

Winter has come to Krynn and ushered in upon its chill and biting wind the armies of Takhisis, Queen of Darkness, have arisen. Among the ranks of darkness, strange creatures have arisen created by the foulest magic of the Dark Queen's sorcerers. United and fortified, this vast army of evil is advancing across the face of Krynn, marauding through the innocent citizens and establishing a bleak new era in the history of Dragonlance. Few there are who are courageous enough to face the armies of the Dark Queen yet our heroes, sorely beleaguered and dejected, continue forever onwards thwarting evil and corruption with the untarnished sword of justice. Yet, in this bleak winter of their lives, they must face things far worse than Takhisis' army; they must face their own inner turmoils, the eternal dance of light and darkness that is waged within the very depths of their souls, they must overcome prejudice, ignorance, and more. Separated and forced to fight in a world rapidly degenerating, this is their story, their epic battle against the darkness that is consuming Krynn. Yet, can they possibly hope to triumph against such unfathomable darkness? Only time will tell. . .

Once again we are reunited with those characters we have come to love. Few things bring me such extreme joy as picking up another Dragonlance novel and discovering new secrets about my most favourite characters. Once again, the mystical and sardonic Raistlin is back, discovering hidden depths in his own soul whilst experimenting with the ever dangerous dragon orb. Caramon, his twin brother, is torn between his love for Tika and his duty to his ungrateful twin. Strum, the noble Solamnic knight, must learn painful things about the "honour" of his knighthood and the true meaning of justice and piety. Alongside the dejected knight, Laurana, pampered elf princess, is forced to learn that love is not always true and that desperate situations require equally desperate actions. Tanis, torn between his elven nature and his human impetuousness, must finally decide whether he will reside within the light or be seduced into the darkness. Tas, happy go lucky kender, both irritating and lovable, must put aside his carefree nature in an effort to save the world; but will he be able to bring himself to do what must be done? Add to this mix of charming characters Fizban, the delightfully befuddled mage, and Flint, the grumpy old dwarf that hides his kind hearted ways by his eternal gruffness. Truly, the reader cannot help but to love each and every one of these characters who, although not "human" are laden with the distinct trappings and emotions of humanity. To imbue such fictitious personages with such realistic attributes is but one of the many virtues distinctly visible in the works of Dragonlance.

Combined with the vivid enchanting protagonists, the plot, intricate, creative, and highly detailed, fully comes to life evoking an aura of tension, high drama, and endless intrigue. Will the characters remain true to the forces of good? Will they be able to defeat the advancing hordes of dragons and various other villains pledged to the dark side? How will there stories end? All these questions race through the reader's mind as the plot relentlessly progresses forward constantly delivering adrenalin pumping action and shattering emotional dilemmas. Truly, such an entrancing complex plot can never fail to capture and enthrall the reader.

As if all these outstanding literary attributes were not grand enough, yet another exquisite feature of the Dragonlance world prevails: the erudite, beauteous, easy flowing style of writing. Each phrase is, in and of itself, a glorious addition to the ongoing drama and intrigue prevalent throughout Dragons of Winter Night. As usual, Dragonlance far excels other modern works.

Fraught with beauty and peril, joy and despair, and the never ending quest to do that which is noble and just, the beleaguered denizens of Krynn rise up once again to fight the oncoming horde of darkness. Yet another excellent edition to the Dragonlance Chronicles Series. Highly recommended.

- Ravenova Majere

The Dragonlance Chronicles Series:

(1.) Dragons of Autumn Twilight
(2.) Dragons of Winter Night
(3.) Dragons of Spring Dawning
(4.) Dragons of Summer Flame

The Raistlin Chronicles:

(1.) The Soulforge
(2.) Brothers in Arms

The Legends Series:

(1.) Time of the Twins
(2.) War of the Twins
(3.) Test of the Twins

The Lost Chronicles:

(1.) Dragons of Dwarven Depths
(2.) Dragons of a Highlord Sky

The Preludes:

(1.) Darkness and Light
(2.) Kendermore
(3.) Brothers Majere
(4.) Riverwind the Plainsman
(5.) Flint the King
(6.) Tanis the Shadow Years

The Separation Of Races - The Discoveries Of Ancient Weapons.......2007-06-19

Dragons Of Winter Night is the second book in the Dragonlance Chronicles series and picks up where Dragons Of Autumn Twilight ended.
With the companions separated and the Dark Queen's armies dominating Krynn the situation is bleak. It also seems that with spies everywhere and the seeds of division sown the situation is spiralling out of control. Rays of light do manage to break through however. Not only are several dragon orbs discovered, Laurana has found a Dragonlance, learnt how to use one and is attempting to craft more.
The book, much like its prequel, bears many similarities to The Lord Of The Rings - A member of a minor race who takes on great responsibilities and surprisingly drastic action, separation of companions, a seeing orb, evil warriors on winged creatures, etc. - and circumstances come across as overly providential occasionally, but Winter Night is more believable and action-packed than its prequel.
Still, many mysteries like the story of the cataclysm, the origin of the draconians or the hiding place of the dragons remains unresolved. The story however offers several minor and a major surprise in its story-line and twists, in addition to the introduction of several new species, which will help in keeping the reader's attention.

Gates of Paladine...last hope.......2006-09-21

As evil corrupts on Krynn,how will the companionsbe able to stop it? Krynn is threatened to be detroyed by the evil green, red, blue, black, and white dragons with the dragon highlords and there draconian army's. The companions are split up, the elves are destroying them selves,and Palanthas is one of the city's blocing the way. Dragon Orbs seem there only hope but is it? Silvanesti is infested with a nightmare. When all hope seems gone, a old magican shows up. Can they find the mysterious Dragonlance and help them kill evil. The forces of good still have hope and may be able to destroy evil even though the odds are greater. Can they overpower evil and prevail against it?

Excellent Follow Up.......2006-08-15

The message has already been carried. This book is a completely flowing sequel that will lead you all the way to the gates of the third novel, but not without bringing more life to the world already laid before us.

Some may find it useful, others annoying, that each book will detail the past events of the other novels and the characters. So really, you could read from any book if you so chose, however you'd be missing out on more than you'd care to if you only knew.

My favorite Chronicle book.......2006-06-25

MW and TH are one of the greatest story tellers I've ever read about.. The Chronicles trilogy will probably one day be considered as the greatest epic trilogy ever written..
This book is my favorite mainly because of the courage and bravery of Sturm Brightblade..He knew he would die but did his duty without question..Kitiara knew she had to fight him and there was no turning back..Two characters who were probably my favorite duo at one time were friends,then lovers,then turned to becoming enemies.. Of course the story didn't revolve just around Kit and Sturm,it just happened to be my favorite part of the book..

Once Upon a Winter's Night (Roc Fantasy)

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"Speaking forsoothly..."
A graceful, delightful fairy tale fantasy
And they were just so perfect....
Quest for a Vanished Prince
An excellent fairy tale

Once Upon a Winter's Night (Roc Fantasy)
Dennis L. McKiernan
Manufacturer: Roc Hardcover
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

Contemporary | General | Literature & Fiction | Subjects | Books

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ASIN: 0451458400
Release Date: 2001-07-10

Book Description

The bestselling author of the immensely popular Mithgar books now turns his unique talents to a phantasmic retelling of the classic French fairy tale, "East of the Sun, West of the Moon" in which a young woman enters into a strange, peril-filled marriage to a mysterious prince.

Praise for the novels of Dennis L. McKiernan:

McKiernan's narratives have heart and fire and drive. (Katherine Kerr)

Triumphant...grand magical fireworks. (Publishers Weekly)Blends lore and prophesy with vivid battle scenes and emotional drama to create a tale of high fantasy that should appeal to most fans of epic fiction. (Library Journal)Provocative...appeals to lovers of classic fantasy-the audience for David Eddings and Terry Brooks. (Booklist)

Customer Reviews:

"Speaking forsoothly...".......2007-09-27

I think it was Josephine Tey, in her mystery The Daughter of Time, that coined the term "speaking forsoothly". "Speaking forsoothly" refers to using a faux-Shakespearean or medieval-type language. Another term for it might be "Ye Olde Englishe". Shakespeare pulled it off, but what *couldn't* he pull off? But when fantasy/historical writers try to pull it off...

Now, fantasy and historical novels can sin too far in the *other* direction. For example, Garcia y Robertson's Firebird. That (besides the other problems that beset the novel) is steeped in over-modern, slangy language that took me out of the story.

But "speaking forsoothly" can also get between the reader and the story. When the reader tries to envision the characters speaking aloud, it can sound ridiculous and stilted. (And when this sort of language is employed in a *sex scene*...) Worse, in this and the other books in the series, the narrative voice also is sprinkled with Ye Olde Englishe. Which, unfortunately, has the effect of making the writer's voice sound affected, not natural.

And it truly *is* unfortunate, because normally I love novel-length retellings of fairy tales, and there are plenty of elements in this book that stand out--the quest itself, the world of Faery with its four quarters, and many of the fantasy creatures and beings. But I agree with those who think that Camille is just too pure and naive a heroine, despite her bravery in setting out on the quest. And to me, her romance with Alain seemed not to have quite enough buildup. I know that it's supposed to be a reflection of fairy tales, but other retellings of fairy tales have fleshed out budding romances better.

It's a shame, because this fairy tale is a terrific one and the actual *plot* of this novel is quite captivating. But because of the problems with the main character, the central romance, and most of all the issue of "speaking forsoothly", I can't wholeheartedly get into it.

I've read "Once Upon A Summer Day" and haven't gotten to the other books in the series yet; I may do so. But the problem of "speaking forsoothly" carries over into the other books as well, from what I can see. It might have been better if McKiernan had simply let his characters speak in a regular manner--not modern and slangy, but simple English, and let *what* they said establish mood and time period, rather than *how* they said it.

A graceful, delightful fairy tale fantasy.......2007-07-02

Inspired by a fairy tale, McKiernan's novel is written like one, in a lyrical style that produces more eloquence than awkwardness. The poetic prose is the novel's best element. Another strong element is the likable and endearing protagonist, Camille, who is wholly good, pure, and noble. The novel's structure reminded me of The Lord of the Rings: In the same way that Frodo's quest takes him on a journey throughout Middlearth, Camille's quest takes her on a journey throughout Faery. Some of the stops on this journey are superfluous to the primary storyline, however they allow the author to portray his setting and characterize Camille. We learn much about her character through her interactions with the denizens of Faery, although none of it is a surprise, since she is a sweetheart from start to finish. My main qualm is the insignificance of the antagonist: I would have liked the villain to play a more substantial role. Also, I'm not a fan of cliffhanger endings like this one.

And they were just so perfect...........2007-02-26

Following the original (East of the Sun, West of the Moon), Once Upon a Winter's Night is the story of a girl, Camille, who unmasks her true love's face against all warnings, beginning a curse that will change her life. Prior to, Camille had been a poor maiden of the mortal world, one of six sisters (and one brother), children to parents both desolate and hopeless. One night, a large white bear knocks at the door, proposing that if Camille would marry Prince Alain of the Summerwood, the Prince in return would pay a goodly sum to the family for years to come. Knowing that the money was needed to keep her young brother alive, Camille gives her consent and is whisked away to Summerwood Manor on the back of the great bear.

Once there, Alain is revealed only during the night and even then wearing a mask. Despite, the two fall deeply in love, until Camille returns to the mortal world to visit her family. When there, her mother persuades Camille to light a candle in the night and reveal the Prince's face. Overcome with influence and curiosity after Camille's return to Summerwood, she lights the candle, and upon seeing her fiance's beautiful face, sends the Manor and all within into a whirlwind of magic, leaving Camille deserted in a foreign land. Determined to set all right again, she begins the task to find the place East of the Sun and West of the Moon where her true love lies at the risk of all peril.

Ah, me, to be a romantic. It's all about good adventure and love, yet the story is filled with such annoyances that I can't help but wish someone else had written it. The characters are extremely stereotypical with absolutely no depth (I mean, it's really bad), to the point where sometimes you'd wish something unanticipated would happen, like Camille forgetting a riddle, or one of her acquaintances forgetting about her, leaving her stranded and without aid. (But no, then she'd have to use her brain). It's actually pretty graphic (The sex scenes with all the unnecessary "Oh Mithras".), plus the over abused French (I took French and struggled with the absurdity of some of the phrases). Not to mention those really bad riddles...they weren't difficult at all, but I will refrain from bashing them. I think it was a good story line (obviously, someone else thought of it), but the characters were so lame that it ruined everything. By the end it was kind of funny, because the most interesting thing was the bird (which does not talk).

Having read the Blue Fairy Book, these little slips in the short story are standard. But because this is not just a story but also a novel, it seems quite unacceptable.

I'll admit, I liked the idea of this series, so I did continue the I, just finishing Once Upon a Summer Day the other day, finding that story a lot more enjoyable. (Though still flawed. Hmm...maybe the third book will be better?) Anyways, I have not given up hope. Though I don't recommend this book, it wasn't a complete waste of time. Well...not totally..(if you're into reading shoddy fairy-tales...)

Quest for a Vanished Prince.......2006-11-26

Once Upon a Winter's Night (2001) is the first fantasy novel in the Faery series. It is a greatly extended version of the fairytale "East of the Sun and West of the Moon".

In this novel, Camille and her family are disturbed one winter night by a great pounding on the door of their hovel. At first they do nothing, but the pounding continues. Finally, Camille suggests that Henri, her father, find out who is knocking. When Henri, opens the door, he immediately slams it shut and bars it.

When asked about the knocker, Henri wails "A Bear! A white Bear!" Then once more comes the massive knock and the door shudders under the blow. Finally, Camille reopens the door and invites the Bear to enter. The single room is quite crowded after the Bear comes in and lies on the floor.

A message tube is attached around the Bear's neck. The note within asks for Camille's hand in marriage and offers a sizeable bride-price. It is signed "Lord Alain, Prince of the Summerwood".

Camille's mother Aigrette is convinced as soon as the bride-price is announced. Her five sisters tend to be favorable to the offer, although Lisette complains that she is the eldest and should be married first. Henri and Giles, the younger son, are against the whole idea, but Henri can only drag his feet and insist on more time. The Bear is told to come back in a week.

Despite Aigrette's nagging, Henri is not really convinced to let Camille go. However, Aigrette hits upon the idea of a doctor for chronically ailing Giles and Camille begins to seriously consider marrying Alain. Although Giles continues to argue against the idea, Camille leaves with the Bear after he returns.

After an arduous trip through Faery with the Bear, including a Red Cap attack in Winterwood, Camille finally arrives at Summerwood Manor. She finally meets Alain on the third day after her arrival. He is everything that she imagined, except that he is wearing a mask.

In this story, Camille grows to love Alain and waits patiently to see him without his mask. After a trip back home, however, her mother's insinuations persuade Camille to sneak a look at his unmasked face and a violent wind takes away Alain and everybody within Summerwood Manor.

Camille spends several days cleaning up the mess within the manor, but finally thinks to consult the Lady of the Mere. Lord Kelmot, a Lynx rider, shows her the way. The Lady indirectly advises her to look for Alain "East of the Sun and West of the Moon". She also gives Camille a staff and provides a sparrow as her companion. Kelmot offers to accompany her in her quest to locate Alain, but the Lady has advised her to only take the stave and sparrow with her.

Camille meets many friendly people on the way and a few villains. Her own wit often suffices to thwart the villains, although a word of advice from her friends often becomes useful. She hurries as fast as she can, for she only has a year and a day and another month from the day Alain vanished, and she encounters many delays.

Despite the author's statements, I find it hard to believe that the original bardic tale is a long as this novel. Just reading it aloud would take several days. Add musical flourishes and the telling would take a week or more, particularly if the bard only spoke in the evenings after supper.

Highly recommended for McKiernan fans and for anyone else who enjoys tales of geases and curses, perseverance and native wit.

-Arthur W. Jordin

An excellent fairy tale.......2006-04-24

I read the other reviews here and wondered what book they had read or had *expected* to read.

This book carefully indentifies itself as a fairy tale from the start. If you are looking for an action-packed modern novel, then go elsewhere.

But if you love fairy tales where the characters are more fleshed out and human than the extremely edited (Disneyfied before Disney!) versions offered by Lang or the Brothers Grimm, then you should read this book. (Andrew Lang did not invent fairy tales he *translated* and *edited* them.) Yes, the themes are ancient. But if you don't like that, don't read fairy tales.

If you don't like unfamiliar words or ways of speaking in your books, I'd suggest that you go watch television instead. One thing I really hate is any fantasy novel that is chocked full of modern slang, cliches and idioms. I don't expect someone from another time and place to sound like truck drivers at the local pub. While I don't think McKiernan really gave it the French flavor he was aiming for I liked his semi-archaic language.

My only criticisms:
1) The mystery about the parents was a bit of a distraction and not really necessary to the main story, but that's a minor complaint;
2) Alain seems a bit too passive at the end;
3) The book should have ended earlier. A bit too much time is spent tying up too many loose ends at the end. The reason some readers felt like there was no "happily ever after" is because the end went on too long.

But those are things *I* would have done differently if I had written it, not reasons to avoid this book. I highly recommend it!

Average customer rating:

Cute, cute, cute.
Charming Children's Tale
My 3 yr old son likes this book
snowman at Night
I Beloved Book!

Snowmen at Night
Caralyn Buehner
Manufacturer: Dial
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 0803725507

Book Description

Have you ever built a snowman and discovered the next day that his grin has gotten a little crooked, or his tree-branch arms have moved? And you've wondered . . . what do snowmen do at night? This delightful wintertime tale reveals all! Caralyn Buehner's witty, imaginative verse offers many amusing details about the secret life of snowmen and where they go at night, while Mark Buehner's roly-poly snowmen are bursting with personality and charm. From the highly successful team that created such winning titles as Fanny's Dream, Snowmen at Night is fabulous, frosty, and fun!

Customer Reviews:

Cute, cute, cute........2007-07-02

The warmth and openness that the authors convey in this book makes you feel like you live in that neighborhood yourself. Cute story; beautiful artwork. Children as young as 2 are drawn in and fascinated by the magical storyline. Great read-aloud book!

Charming Children's Tale.......2007-05-03

This imaginative little fantasy is sure to bring a smile to the lips of the smallest children and start a playful exchange of ideas. This is beginning imagination at its coolest. However be sure that you playfully talk to them about the book and get their ideas on what happens to snowmen during the night. Do not leave them with thre impression that snowmen are animated.

My 3 yr old son likes this book.......2007-03-09

Even though we live in Florida and don't have snow my 3 year old son enjoys this book. It has good rhythm and cute story. This book was one of his preschool teachers favorites so we bought it. I am glad we did.

snowman at Night.......2007-01-20

I've received this book & given it as a gift several times. It is good for young childrem, simple to read & the illustrations are beautiful. It is a great gift for new parents or grandparents. Also the the other book Snowmen at
Christmas is just as great.

I Beloved Book!.......2006-04-13

I had to read this book to my 18 month old every night for months on end! He is now 2 1/2 and still loves it. Now I am reading it to my 9 month old!

Winter and Night (A Bill Smith/Lydia Chin Novel)

Average customer rating:

a 400-page short story
An excellent first exposure to Rozan
Disgrace to the Edgar? Award!
Disappointing for an Edgar winner
This is one of the very best genre series' you will be lucky enough to come across

Winter and Night (A Bill Smith/Lydia Chin Novel)
S. J. Rozan
Manufacturer: St. Martin's Minotaur
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

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ASIN: 0312986688

Amazon.com

Penzler Pick, January 2002: S.J. Rozan is an author whose reputation and prowess have been growing in tandem. A strong writer in the "newcomers to watch" category back when she published China Trade, her first novel featuring New York sleuths Bill Smith and Lydia Chin, she is now a real player on the scene, poised for bestsellerdom.

The story she tells here takes us out of the gritty five boroughs and onto the New Jersey Turnpike, where Smith's sister Helen lives, in a place called Warrenstown. But did we know Bill even had a sister? Over the course of seven books and several short stories, even Lydia Chin, his partner and best friend, hasn't known this. So what gives?

We learn about Helen Smith Russell through a totally unexpected phone call from a Midtown South police detective, answered by Bill in his Tribeca loft. It seems the cops have his nephew in custody, a 15-year-old runaway who is the son of the sister with whom Bill has not been in touch for 25 years.

Two mysteries are being set up here, but before Rozan is finished, more than even these two will have been followed to their tragic conclusions. Each of the sinister puzzles seems to circle back around to Gary, the frightened nephew, and also to that seemingly straight-arrow suburbia he's fleeing.

Warrenstown, New Jersey, is also where Scott, Gary's dad, grew up. The trouble is that Helen's husband is part of the problem, not the solution. And while Bill, Lydia, and young Gary are trying to expose to fresh air the secrets from the past that keep festering (and killing), the villains (those with a deep interest in preserving reputations, as well as the legendary local football team, at all costs) want nothing more than to stop them.

It may be unusual territory, but S.J. Rozan can now be listed alongside Harlan Coben and Janet Evanovich as writers helping to give New Jersey the right kind of bad name. --Otto Penzler

Book Description

Private detective Bill Smith is hurtled headlong into the most provocative-and personal-case of his career when he receives a chilling late night telephone call from the NYPD, who are holding his fifteen-year-old nephew Gary. But before he can find out what's going on, Gary escapes Bill's custody and disappears into the dark and unfamiliar streets.... Bill and his partner, Lydia Chin, try to find the missing teen and uncover what it is that has led him so far from home. Their search takes them to Gary's family in a small town in New Jersey, where they discover that one of Gary's classmates was murdered. Bill and Lydia delve into the crime-only to find it eerily similar to a decades-old murder-suicide....Now, with his nephew's future-and perhaps his very life-at stake, Bill must unravel a long-buried crime and confront the darkness of his own past....

Customer Reviews:

a 400-page short story.......2007-10-05

I listened to this book all the way to the end, just because I couldn't believe an author could keep up the pace for 400 pages. She did it. Page after page after page of descriptions of the wind and strip malls and streets and neighborhoods, and not one original description.

But event worse is the hero narrator, the antithesis of Sam Spade. Bill Smith lives inside his head, psycho-babble that has nothing to do with the case at hand, another boring angry man.

Please don't buy this. It just encourages the publishers to produce more such trash.

An excellent first exposure to Rozan.......2007-03-22

I picked this one up because I have seen Rozan's blog and have heard good things about her. I'm glad I did. This book is excellent mystery fiction, with strong characters, an intriguing plot and a terrific voice. It was hard to put down. S.J. Rozan has a great feel for dialogue and for exposition. I'll be looking to get the rest of the series, based on my experience with this book.

Disgrace to the Edgar? Award!.......2006-12-22

I did not know that Rozan was a woman until I was almost done with the book and it helped to make sense of some utter nonsense in the book about men and football players. Every male character acts like a caveman, including the main character Bill Smith (sweet name). He listens to classical music and has the ability to comment on its quality while also using the ultra-manly term "throw pillow." But any time he is in a disagreement he must resort to punching and swearing or bashing someone over the head with his club. Pretty much every male character in the book is completely irrational and swears constantly unless he is taking a breath to try and punch someone.

The football players are all evil brainwashed Nazis, who all care more about a football game then they would a classmate being raped and likely murdered. I have not heard too much about the mecca of high school football in New Jersey but I don't think a whole town would be completely silent and content with their football team raping and killing their classmates. Leading these immoral neanderthals is a completely stereotypical tyrant of a coach as dumb and violent as all men in New Jersey apparently must be to S.J. Rozan.

The characters are irrational and unrealistic, the plot is dull and unlikely, the writing is average and typically filled with annoying dialogue (who talks like they do in investigative novels? NO ONE), and the ending resolves very little.

I have never heard of the Edgar award before but it must not take much to recieve one, being this book was given an Edgar.

Disappointing for an Edgar winner.......2006-06-21

This is my first Rozan mystery. Her writing style is a cut above many other mystery writers, but overall, I was disappointed. The Bill/Lydia relationship was not well developed (perhaps that's her style) and was one dimensional. I was also expecting some development of the Warrentown-is-a-terrible-place theme. That message came through comments by Smith, Lydia, and some loner kids. What about the townspeople?

This is one of the very best genre series' you will be lucky enough to come across.......2006-05-16

From one Rozan book to the next, my respect for her as an author keeps rising. You can't just judge her on a single one of her novels the way you can with most authors. Because unlike most other writers (and especially those who partake in the genre, mystery/thriller theater) Rozan goes out of her way to reinvent herself with every book. Every story she tells is either from the standpoint of one of her two vastly different protagonists or it churns in a completely different landscape of emotions. I have only read three of her novels now and they have run the gambit from a modern day Agatha Christy to 1950's MGM noir, to a distinctive contemporary Hitchcock style. This is important because she is not repeating herself and destroying a very promising career as so many other authors have (See Patricia Cornwell). I would easily place Rozan up there with `Mystic River' author Dennis Lehane as the very best of today's genre writers.

Every one of her books, including this one `Winter and Night' have some quirky silly bits that are a little hard to take. But in the end they are easily over looked when you take in the scope of her prowess as an author. The main beef I had with this book is that it is centered around events in a small New Jersey community called Warrenstown. This is a place contrived only for the purposes of this book and lacks any credibility. High school football is foremost in every ones minds here and it becomes a little far-fetched after a while. I think that Rozan could do well to read a little of Russo's work, like `Nobodies Fool' and gleam a little small town life from him. Her secondary characters could have used more than a little fleshing out. But that aside, this is still a great book.

I would suggest that you try this book if you are on the fence about it. It is rare indeed when an author can string together a whole series of books in such a remarkable manner and it would be a shame for you to pass such a great series by.

To the Gates of Palanthas: Dragons of Winter Night, Vol. 2 (Dragonlance Chronicles, Part 4)

Average customer rating:

Great book
What a great book!

To the Gates of Palanthas: Dragons of Winter Night, Vol. 2 (Dragonlance Chronicles, Part 4)
Margaret Weis , and Tracy Hickman
Manufacturer: Wizards of the Coast
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

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ASIN: 0786930969
Release Date: 2003-10-01

Book Description

An all-new young reader adaptation of the second Dragonlance novel.

The next Dragonlance novel in the trilogy that launched the entire Dragonlance line, Dragons of Winter Night has been adapted to a format specifically targeted at young readers. The novel has been divided into two volumes, The Nightmare Lands and To the Gates of Palanthas, that are sized to fit the young reader market. These titles contain brand new cover art and interior art and are a continuation of the overall young reader adaptation of the entire Dragonlance Chronicles trilogy.

Customer Reviews:

Great book.......2005-02-22

This book is amazing! You should read the whole series. You will not regret it.

What a great book!.......2004-08-26

TO THE GATES OF PALANTHAS was a great book! I have already read the adult version of this book, it is also the original, and this book brings out the true beauty of the DRAGONLANCE series! Margaret Weis and Tracy Hickman made a great decision in creating children versions of the book!

The authors are really great at making you wonder about certain events that could happen. They keep you on the edge of your seat. This book is really exciting, I had trouble putting it down and doing something else.

The characters are described very well, making the book even better to read. The authors really showed the personality that makes each character different.

The main part of this book is the war that rages on in the North of the continent. The story leads us to the fortress city of Palanthas. The battle is so intense, im on the edge of my seat the whole time!! There is so much action! It's incredible!

Not all the characters are in Palanthas though, so we get to explore a big amount of the world of Krynn. There is so much beauty on the continent that is all being destroyed. The authors portray the time as a time that could come crashing down and destroying everything.

My favourite part of the book would have to be when the Dragon High Lord fights against her old friend. There is a lot of emotion within that battle, as short as it may be. Sturm, the Kngiht she is fighting, shows anger and hate.

The most dissapointing part of the book was when Sturm di...., I won't spoil it for you.

Another thing I like about the book is that Laurana, the elf, becomes the general of the army of Palanthas. The authors show how powerful and intelligent she actually was, something I wasn't very sure about before.

Book Description

In this fifth novel in the DI Jack Frost series, a serial killer surfaces in Denton, killing prostitutes and abducting small girls. With Frost following false leads and unable to catch the killer, his own position in the force is put in jeopardy.

Customer Reviews:

Not a Fan.......2004-07-12

This is my introduction to Jack Frost and I didn't enjoy it. Total lack of respect for women. Is this a British thing calling all females cows? A more disreputable character I would hate to meet. I can't find one good thing to say about this author. The story was way too long and left a lot of holes not filled in. Course who would have suspected 2 women, but after rounding up everyone Frost could he was bound to stumble on the actual perps. I have read many, many better mysteries. Try Anne Perry sometime. She writes about Dectectives in London too.

Just Sheer Brilliance.......2003-09-03

Every Frost book I read is such supurb pleasure that I want to just keep reading it. This one is no exception. It is not Agatha Christie, nor is it Shakespeare. It is classic, never-the-less. It wont suit all - some people prefer more long words, or their sense of humour is too restricted. Frost books keep me on the edge of the seat, and emotionally charged. Sometimes I laugh, sometimes I am just too absorbed. Winter Frost (like all the others) had just these effects. The TV series is good (David Jason is excellant) but the books are much more involved and dark. If you've read and enjoyed one book - you'll love the rest. If you haven't, then give it a try! Because although each book has some similarities (LIFE is LIKE THAT) it is equally true to say that each book is different. If one reviewer tells you the characters are cardboard, then I say I know several of the characters in real life. different names, but it's them never-the-less. maybe that makes real life cardboard. I dunno. But I just love these books.

ps. Mr R.D. Wingfield. PLEASE write another soon.

easy uninspiring read.......2002-08-06

I read this book on holidays having just read Philip Roths "The human stain".
It is readable but repetitive and stereotypical. I enjoy the TV series but in contrast to conventional wisdom the book is disappointing in comparison
Frost comes across as a combination of Colombo and Benny Hill in a Carry on film. The characters are all cardboard cut outs and the ubiquituous bacon sandwiches ,page 3 females and viagra fired men becomes tiresome.
A mindless read after a heavy book or 10 pints of lager!!

Another fine addition to the series.......2001-11-08

If your a fan of the series as I am, this novel was worth the wait. Frost is up to his elbows in crime again with a serial killer of prostitutes and another rapist and killer of small children among his problems. Of course, the bureaucratic Mullet is not helping things either. Frost attacks these problems with his usual wit and style, yet Frost also experiences a great deal of self doubt in this instance as the investigations drag on due to dead ends and the lack of resources and manpower. Fans of the TV series will recognize that sense of melancholy that David Jason so well portrays.

It was a great and entertaining read and the humor had me laughing out loud. Five stars

I'm sorry I've finished reading this book!.......2001-06-26

And I'll have to wait for the next book of this "Jack Frost" series for a long time. Maybe two years? Or more than that?

He has been the same since I first read "A touch of Frost.": a dirty, lousy, lazy, but lovable bloke. He is very charming especially when the situation around him gets worse and worse. It's because, I think, he never blame anyone but himself under any pressure.

If you haven't recently met a charming man, go for this book and find him very attractive!!!

Average customer rating:

NEXT TO LORD OF THE RINGS, ELRIC AND CONAN THIS IS FANTASY AT IT'S BEST!!!

It seems to me, alot of people miss the point of this series.

Great gift set

Entertaining, but flawed.

Dragonlance tops my list...

The Dragonlance Chronicles/Dragons of Autumn Twilight/Dragons of Winter Night/Dragons of Spring Dawning (Collectors Edition)
Margaret Weis , and Tracy Hickman
Manufacturer: Wizards of the Coast
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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Legends Gift Set: Time of the Twins, War of the Twins, and Test of the Twins (Dragonlance: Legends Trilogy)

The War of Souls Trilogy Gift Set: Dragons of a Fallen Sun, Dragons of a Lost Star, Dragons of a Vanished Moon (Dragonlance Series)

Dragons of Summer Flame

The Second Generation

The Dark Elf Trilogy, Collector's Edition (Homeland, Exile, Sojourn)

ASIN: 0880386525

Book Description

This three-book set is perfect for collectors and an ideal gift for readers unfamiliar with the Dragonlance setting. The Chronicles Trilogy -- Dragons of Autumn Twilight, Dragons of Winter Night, and Dragons of Spring Dawning--are enclosed in a hard-sided slipcover case featuring the stunning cover art from the series.

Customer Reviews:

NEXT TO LORD OF THE RINGS, ELRIC AND CONAN THIS IS FANTASY AT IT'S BEST!!!.......2007-07-24

AS MENTIONED ABOVE NEXT TO LORD OF THE RINGS, ELRIC AND CONAN THIS IS FANTASY AT IT'S BEST!!! Speaking of which this should be made into a movie as soon as possible. However only with one condition that the director be one as passionate as Peter Jackson was about Lord of the Rings or Sam keith with Spiderman. The director must know and want to adhere to the essence of the book, if this is done then this will be as magnificent as the Lord of the Rings movie. THey must use a lot of special effects, no expense spared but by all means be intelligent and wise in how to get the finest effects on the screen, you will always be compared to Lord of the Rings so give them a run for the money. The cast must be well chosen, they can be little or unknown actors but must be excellent actors none the less, the costumes and the photography, the architecture all counts, nothing must be overlooked and the producers and director or directors must work closely and seamlessly together with one another and most especially with the writers. I recommend Weta workshop the same that did the special effects on Lord of the rings, Richard Taylor and his fine crew. There can be a total of 9 or even 12 films if all is successcessful, yes the soulforge trilogy, and the dragons of a summer flame trilogy as well as dragons gate can all follow suite, yet in order not to loose the audience, a strict adherence to this format must be followed and all future directors would have to consult with the first successful directors and collaborate with them and learn, enhance the techniques and methods to build on the blockbuster effect and all of these have this immense potential. The original Dragonlance trilogy is my favorite, but the Raistlin is an awesome character and can have his own movie, Storm brightblade, Tanis half-elven, the elves, this is a truly fun and incredible saga and with care, attention and love the movie can be it's equal.
Therefore I challenge you great and inspired Producers, Directors, Screen writers (who will work tightly with the Authors, unless the directors will assume this role as Peter Jackson did), and all you magnificent Actors, Photographers, set designers, sound effects technicians and all the every last part of you to come forth and bring this saga to life and then one Last thing Make the ELRIC MOVIE WITH THE SAME EXCELLENCE. I SALUTE YOU!!!

It seems to me, alot of people miss the point of this series........2007-05-01

I read the Chronicles years ago when they first came out onto bookshelves, desperate for something new to read. I quickly fell in love with this series. I've seen numerous people tear the characters apart. I won't defend them here, because everyone is entitled to their own opinions. The stories, whether written by Weiss & Hickman, or other writers of this series are well done. When I moved from Fl to Ga, I gave most of my fantasy book collection away to my nephews. They both loved this series as well. I'm buying them again to let my daughter read them. I'm glad the gift sets like this are available, as you can get the triplets at one time. They keep her occupied for a while. And while some readers may have been delighted by Kitiara killing Sturm, I was more interested by Lord Soth, a rather minor character in this series, and Raistlin who actually shows some redeeming qualities later on in other volumes. this series is good for beginners into the realm of fantasy and dragon. I found it more entertaining than Dragonriders of Pern, and to me, the characters much more vibrant. I highly recommend this series to parents with kids of the ages 12 and up who are interested in this genre. It is well worth the expense to keep them reading and entertained.

Great gift set.......2007-03-20

The product content is of corse fabulous and the vender was great. The product arived in perfect condition and ahead of schedule.
Thanks a bunch,
Dolores

Entertaining, but flawed........2007-02-18

These books were entertaining page-turners; the story wasn't completely original but it definetly made me want to keep reading. Some of the characters (such as the mysterious mage Raistlin and the annoying kender Tas) were very interesting and well-drawn; others (such as Sturm, Flint, and even Tanis at times) felt flat.

I'll start with Sturm. (Don't keep reading if you don't want any spoilers.)It was stated WAY too many times that 'honor was his life.' He was so honorable that he became boring; I was actually happy when a far more interesting character, Kitiara, killed him on top of a Tower.

Flint, I felt, was the requisite Dwarf. It is Ok for a fantasy novel to not have dwarves. Flint never really added all that much to the story, and when he died in Godshome I felt like all the characters were crying over a paper cut.

Physically, the world of Krynn had its pros and cons. The continent of Ansalon where the story takes place is in the southern hemisphere, which I found to be rather original. The cities, however, seemed by and large the same. Whether in ruins or still standing, the vast majority of all the major settlements were supposed to be breathtakingly beautiful. This got old after a while; the hardscrabble harbor of Flotsam actually stood out more in my mind than all the glorious archtecture and whatnot.

The map really irked me, mostly because it did not show where Sancrist was. The one that came with the first volume was particularly hard to decipher.

None of that bothered me nearly as much, however as the continous use of deux ex machina. The most glaring example of this is the whole 'Whoever wears the Crown rules' debacle at the end of the third volume. What is this 'Crown?' Where did it come from and why was it never mentioned before?

The ending was ridiculously open-ended. NOTHING CHANGED. Ok, so Takhisis and Paladine are back in thier respective heavens. But the dragons were still around, Raistlin's deux ex machina moment was completely unexplained, and the Gilthanas/Silvara relationship was completely forgotten. I understand there are sequels (many of them), but I felt jipped. And why were the Disks of Mishakal (sp) so important?

This being said, Dragonlance has it's strong points. The part about how mages keep forgetting spells was clever, as was the idea of kenders (they're immune to fear, they steal things, etc.) I wouldn't say these books are a must-read, but they're entertaining and I would reccomend them to any fantasy fans.

Dragonlance tops my list..........2007-02-09

I recently picked up a copy of the first book in the War of Souls series because a friend brought it into work in a box of other books. I began to read it and realized I really had to have the original books in this series. So I put it away and bought the first book in the Dragonlance Chronicles. I am completely hooked on this series now. These have got to be the best Fantasy novels I have read in a very long time. They have action, adventure, humor, romance, horror... everything you can ask for in a fantasy novel. I would give these way over a 10 if I could but I have to settle for 5 stars. I have no idea how I missed these books over the years they are fantastic... :)

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