KLIATT
In this third book of The Hallowed Isle series, the focus is primarily on the women in Artor's Britannia. Igierne, Lady of the Lake and mother of King Artor, struggles with her feelings towards her dangerously ambitious daughter and her own advancing age. Morgause, sister of Artor and mother of Medraut (Artor's only son), vows to make Medraut Britannia's king. Even though she has no understanding of its vast power, Morgause also vows that she will control the mystical Cauldron that Igierne protects. Guendivar, a carefree young girl in touch with the fairy world, matures into a noble queen loved by the people of Britannia. Although chosen by Igierne to be King Artor's bride, Guendivar loves Artor and worries about their inability to give Britannia an heir. Paxson skillfully delves into the minds of the women in Artor's life to show readers their strengths, frustrations, yearnings, and fears. These strong characters will appeal to female readers of the series while scholars and Arthurian readers alike will be fascinated by the historical details. Appended to the novel are lists of people and places noting pronunciations as well as differentiating those characters that are mythical from those that are historical. Highly recommended for readers of the previous two volumes and a definite read for those who enjoy Arthurian lore. (The Hallowed Isle, Book 3) KLIATT Codes: SA—Recommended for senior high school students, advanced students, and adults. 1999, Avon/Eos, 180p, 21cm, 99-38405, $10.00. Ages 16 to adult. Reviewer: Ginger Armstrong; Principal Lib. Assoc., Chesterfield Cty P.L., Chester, VA, July 2000 (Vol. 34 No. 4)
School Library Journal
YA-This series, a vivid four-part retelling of the legend of King Arthur, portrays fifth-century Britain as a tapestry woven from richly multicultural strands. The Book of the Sword and The Book of the Spear (both Avon, 1999) revealed Merlin's secrets and described key episodes in the years of war that established Arthur as High King. Here, several enigmas are addressed, including his failed relationship with Guinevere and his problems with his evil sister (called here Morgause). Often lyrical, with frequent moments of startling beauty, Cauldron places the Old Religion at the center of the story, touching on questions of sexuality and spirituality inherent in the saga-and providing a plausible resolution to some of its mysteries. Fans of Marion Zimmer Bradley's The Mists of Avalon (Del Rey, 1985) can be steered directly to this book (the author acknowledges her debt to Bradley), though the earlier volumes also offer much to interest these readers. Others who are simply intrigued by the classic Arthurian legends, or who are fans of fantasy in general, can also enjoy Paxson's fresh take on the classic tale, but probably should be advised to read the volumes in order. Readers who find themselves confused by the spellings and usages (e.g., Alba for Scotland, Gualchmai for Gawain) can refer to helpful lists of people and places that conclude the book.-Christine C. Menefee, Fairfax County Public Library, VA Copyright 2000 Cahners Business Information.|
