Lost Years of Merlin FROM THE PUBLISHER
Spat out by the sea, the boy lay on the rocks, as still as death. Even if he survived the day, he had no home. No memory. And no name.
So begins the tale of the strange young boy, who having washed up on the shores of ancient Wales, is determined to find his real home and his true name. One day he will become the greatest wizard of all time, but he knows nothing of this now.
At the knee of the mysterious Branwen, who claims to be his mother, the boy learns lore of the Celts, Druids, and people even more ancient. Yet the secret of his identity seems always to escape him. To discover the truth, and the secret of his own powers, he runs away, voyaging to the mist-shrouded side of Fincayra, an enchanted land between earth and sky that is being destroyed by blight. It is there he discovers that the fate of this land and his quest are strangely entwined—
Combining all the passion, power, and spiritual depth that are T. A. Barron's hallmarks, this book adds a thrilling new dimension to the legend of Merlin.
FROM THE CRITICS
Children's Literature - Sarah Beasley
T.A. Barron asked the question, "What was the great Merlin like as a child?" and from that sprang this first book of a five-book series that explores the answer. The author has created a world rich in characters and settings, which allows young Merlin to begin his journey to great power. As the novel opens, a boy without a name, without a home, and without a memory is determined to find all three. Emrys, as he calls himself, discovers that he possesses a magical power stronger than himself. When he uses this power for hate, he suffers by losing his eyesight. He soon discovers that he has a second sight that allows him to see in a different way. Because he is determined to continue his quest to find the three things he desires, Emrys goes to the land of Fincayra, an island thought to exist only in myth. There Emrys finds some answers and a purpose to his quest. This book is wonderful because the conflict facing Emrys is not only from outside forces but also from within. The plot line is convoluted, detailed, and gripping. This is a great read-aloud book for late elementary and middle school students. 2002 (orig. 1999), Philomel Books/Penguin Putnam Books for Young Readers, Ages 10 to 14.
School Library Journal
Gr 5 Up-This engrossing presentation of T.A. Barron's fascinating contribution to Arthurian lore (Philomel, 1996), is the first in a trilogy about Merlin's boyhood and coming of age. From the moment young Merlin is washed ashore on a beach in ancient Wales to his exciting journey to the enchanted land of Fincayra, the action never wavers. Actor Michael Cumpsty's deep, growling voice enlivens the drama, making this powerful story all the more compelling. The ingredients of delectable fantasy are at work here--magic, adventure, Celtic folklore, Druid spiritualism, well-developed characters--in a format that really delivers. Fans of Arthurian legend will not want to miss this quality audiobook about one of the grandest wizards ever.-Celeste Steward, Contra Costa County Library, Clayton, CA Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information.
AudioFile
In this first book of T.A. Barron's trilogy, a young boy, washed ashore and nearly dead, embarks on a quest to solve the mysteries of his true name and where he spent his earliest years. The imagery of water and waves, the powers of nature and the past, and the strength of tradition all cycle through this gripping story. With his Second Sight, Emrys explores the mythical land of Fincayra and discovers the Lost Treasures. Through Michael Cumpsty's skillful narration, the many characters of the saga are distinctly and vividly portrayed. While it can be difficult to imagine Emrys as a 12-year-old boy, Cumpsty delightfully gives voice to Shim, the small giant; the Grand Elusa , an all-knowing white spider; Stangmar, the dreaded ruler of the Shrouded Castle; Rhia, the leaf-covered and loyal companion; and Branwen, the sorrowful healer and mother. Listen and be wonderously transported to the mist-covered land of the ancients! A.R. © AudioFile 2001, Portland, Maine
Children's Book Watch
T.A. Barron's The Lost Years Of Merlin is the story of a strange young boy who washed up on the shores of ancient Wales, determined to find his real home and his true name. One day he will become the greatest wizard of all time -- but he knows nothing of this in the beginning. Wonderfully narrated by Michael Cumpsty for listeners of all ages, this Listening Library edition is totally engaging, entertaining, unabridged addition to the Merlin legend is flawless produced, and has a running time of 8 hours.
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