The Witch King

The people of Robert's village tell many stories about the City, though only a few believe that it truly exists. Robert has always longed to travel there, and so pursues his wish when wise old Granny Fishbone tells him that the City is calling him. From the ancient prophesy, he understands that he can save the City, which is under a spell and could be destroyed by the ambition of a power-hungry prince. With the help of a princess, both Robert and the City survive. Like many fantasy novels, such as the Prydain cycle by Lloyd Alexander, The Witch King is full of archetypal elements, but this slim novel offers few surprises for readers familiar with the genre. Action and resolution have been woodenly compressed into a fable, leaving little room in which to develop characterization. Ages 9-12. (March)