SFF

The Murdstone Trilogy

by Mal Peet
Candlewick. Sept. 2015. 320p. ISBN 9780763681845. $18.99. FANTASY
COPY ISBN
This is one of the few fantasy send-ups that matches the genius of Diana Wynne Jones's masterpiece Dark Lord of Derkholm and the hilarious companion, A Traveler's Guide to Fantasy Land. YA author Philip Murdstone is recognized for his stories of sensitive teenage boys in contemporary settings, appreciated by critics but not widely read, which is why his pushy agent talks him into an absolutely new writing venture, an epic fantasy novel with all the Tolkienesque trimmings. Murdstone hates fantasy fiction and has no idea what to write, so he's grateful when a complete story arrives in his head.
VERDICT Few adult fantasy readers are familiar with the late Carnegie Medal-winning YA author Peet (Tamar), but this work should gain him a mature audience. His clear appreciation and knowledge of the genre, plus adult language, make this clever story best for adults and those well versed in fantasy.
Reviewed by Jessica E. Moyer , Apr 01, 2016
Comment Policy:
  • Be respectful, and do not attack the author, people mentioned in the article, or other commenters. Take on the idea, not the messenger.
  • Don't use obscene, profane, or vulgar language.
  • Stay on point. Comments that stray from the topic at hand may be deleted.
  • Comments may be republished in print, online, or other forms of media.
  • If you see something objectionable, please let us know. Once a comment has been flagged, a staff member will investigate.

RELATED 

FICTION

Lightfall
by Crocker, Ed
FICTION

An Honored Vow
by Blair, Melissa
FICTION

We Lived on the Horizon
by Swyler, Erika
FICTION

Glow of the Everflame
by Cole, Penn
FICTION

The Martian Contingency
by Kowal, Mary Robinette
FICTION

Galaxy Raiders: Abyss
by Douglas, Ian
More
ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?

We are currently offering this content for free. Sign up now to activate your personal profile, where you can save articles for future viewing

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?