Mythago Wood, by Robert Holdstock: ***1/4

This book is an original tale, very well-written (very good prose), that confirms the fact that creative ideas will always find a place to flourish. The development of the story is excellent, with a great story arc, and I felt a strong emotion for the lead character. The book has real love, adventure, terror, and intrigue. It was the surprise of the fall for me, and one of the surprise books of my year because of the unique way it approached fantasy as an extension of our reality. So many books that imagine a connection between America (or in this case Britain) and a realm of fantasy have the typical and somewhat childish "whisked away to a far-off land" style. Not that that story can't work, it's just not a unique idea. This book handles it so differently and intelligently that I'm newly excited about the possibilities for this segment of the genre. I can't wait to read the follow-up, Lavondyss, which is supposed to be very different but equally good.

Holdstock reveals to me the idea that our world is much more than we realize. He suggests enchantment and excitement around the corner, in the woods down the block, or within our own homes. And he also reaches realms of genuine terror and emotion that build directly on the supernatural elements he brings into the world. He reaches deep emotional realms through ordinary means, resulting from extraordinary and unique circumstances.
(Fall 2004)


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