by Lloyd Alexander
Published: August 1964
Source: Publisher (Thank you!)

Taran wanted to be a hero, and looking after a pig wasn't exactly heroic, even though Hen Wen was an oracular pig. But the day that Hen Wen vanished, Taran was led into an enchanting and perilous world. With his band of followers, he confronted the Horned King and his terrible Cauldron-Born. These were the forces of evil, and only Hen Wen knew the secret of keeping the kingdom of Prydain safe from them. But who would find her first?

It's been a long time since I've been so charmed by a book, as The Book of Three charmed me! There's a special magic to middle grade books that you can't find in YA literature, and I loved rediscovering that through this book. It brought back so many nostalgic feeling of all the fantasy books I devoured as a kid. Oddly enough though, The Book of Three was never one of them, so I'm so happy to finally have it in my repertoire!

Short and sweet, this book holds all the elements you could possibly want in a childrens book; everything from a king who wears antlers, to an enchanted pig! And who doesn't love the fact that the protagonist is the Assistant Pig-Keeper for the magical pig? That's a win right there.

From the get-go, Lloyd Alexander takes us on a well-narrated ride that flows as fast as the Great Avren itself as with our hero Taran we are thrust into a world of danger and adventure that doesn't seem to let up for one minute. We experience rivers, dungeons and battles oh my, mysterious and ridiculous creatures, dangerous enemies and plenty of laughs along the way. And while Taran may be a bumbling idiot that lost Hen Wen you can't help embrace him for his lovable and true heart. Speaking of Hen Wen, who knew pigs could be such a boss?

This book is a ride that will delight and captivate you as you experience the adventures of Taran, Gwydion, and yes, even Gurgi. Children, teens and adults will enjoy this all-around magical tale of one Assistant Pig-Keeper who had the journey of a lifetime. I am definitely glad I finally got around to reading this book, I haven't had so much pure fun reading in a while. Here's to 50 more years of Pyrdain!
Thanks for reading! Before you go enter the giveaway for your own 50th anniversary edition, check out the previous reviews on the tour! There are some awesome bloggers participating, both old and new fans of the book spreading the love!

It's now your turn to enter to win a beautiful 50th anniversary edition of this beloved classic! (pictured above). The contest will run until October 14th, and is open to US residents only. Thanks to Macmillan for sponsoring this giveaway!
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