Christy

Goodreads Synopsis:    Christy Huddleston left home at 19 to teach school in the Smoky Mountains. There she came to know and love the wild mountain people with their fierce pride, their dark superstitions, their terrible poverty, their yearning for beauty and truth. Christy found her faith severely challenged in these primitive surroundings; and, confronted with two young men of unique strengths and needs, she found her own growing yearnings challenged by love.











My Thoughts:

-    Even though I read this book last month, I wanted to review it. My thoughts often wander back to this book and its characters. It is one that has stayed with me and won't let me forget. 

-    The story is charming, heart-breaking, frustrating, and lovely. I enjoyed every moment. 

-    The characters are wonderful. Each of them finds a place into your heart and burrows a little home. I love Christy and her kindness and tenacity. I want to be her when I grow up. I loved all the other characters as well, especially the children and Fairlight. 

-    The characters in the book aren't afraid to ask the hard questions, and I really appreciated that. A lot of the questions asked were similar to my own. Sadly, I don't know if there are answers. The characters were very honest and real about life and faith. 

-    My only complaint with the book is the ending. It ends a little abruptly, and I want to know what happens next! Who does Christy marry!?!?!?

-    I understand why this is a beloved classic. It is a book that beckons to be read again and again. The story and messages are timeless.

Taran Wanderer

From Goodreads:    Taran has been both Assistant Pig-Keeper and warrior, but his heart is troubled. Who are his parents? Where does he come from? In a quest to learn who he truly is, Taran travels Prydain seeking secrets long buried by time and silence. Accompanied by his loyal friends, Taran begins his search. Maybe, if his parents are as noble as he hopes, Princess Eilonwy with the red-gold hair will think as often and as fondly of Taran as he finds himself thinking of her.









My Thoughts:

-    I don't remember this story as much as I do the previous books, so it was almost like reading it for the first time, and I loved it!

-    Taran grows and learns so much in this tale. He finally makes that transition from boy to man. Not only does Taran learn from everyone he encounters on his journey, but he also teaches them things in return. 

-    There are a lot of good messages and morals taught throughout the book, not just for the characters but for the readers as well. 

-    Gurgi's friendship is priceless. He is so loyal and steadfast. Gurgi is always happy and willing to sacrifice whatever and follow Taran in anything. 

-    Taran really proves how hard working he is. He does honest work, and he never does it half heatedly. He does a good job. I wish I had that kind of diligence in everything I did.

-    While there isn't a lot of action, there is a lot of value in this book. 

Previous books in The Chronicle of Prydain Series

(Click on the cover to see my thoughts)