Monday, January 5, 2009

Outcast

Outcast


By: Michelle Paver
Reviewed by: gothiclolitamaiden, 15
Rating: Really liked it


The Chronicles of Ancient Darkness series is one of the few that gets an amazing rating from me. The series take place in prehistorical times, and Michelle Paver weaves a fascinating tale of people, animals, spirits and demons. The books are, in order, Wolf Brother, Spirit Walker and Soul Eater. In Outcast, the fourth installment, Torak is banished from the clans after it is discovered that he has the mark of the Soul Eaters.

Throughout the book, Torak's sense of loneliness is portrayed in a way that makes the reader sympathize with him, it's tear-jerking. The amount of detail is amazing, each clan has its own customs, distinctive clothing, foods, and much more. Settings are described with care without becoming tedious. The author's love and respect for nature is obvious, through the third person narrator and the characters themselves. And the plot is a page-turner, with few dull moments.

Characters are well developed and lovable, you'll even get attached to the villains. The series isn't for everyone, but I love it. My only problem with the series is that they're published in the UK first and often take months to arrive in the US. Though Wolf Brother was my favorite, Outcast is a strong second. Don't make me choose between Spirit Walker and Soul Eater.


Recommended to: Anyone who likes historical fiction or fantasy, since it mixes the two. Any nature lovers out there. 10+ Some pretty graphic violence and disturbing content.

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