The Forgotten Beasts of Eld by Patricia McKillip

9/10

The Forgotten Beasts of Eld was first released in 1974 and has become one of the most endearing and enduring fantasy novels of the past fifty years. Patricia McKillip has written a book that is amongst many fantasy readers’ favourite possessions. The Forgotten Beasts of Eld won the World Fantasy Award for best novel in 1975.

The Forgotten Beasts of Eld is a magical tale set in a time of war. The story centres on Sybel whose story begins when, at the age of sixteen, she is given a baby to care for. Born and raised on the titular Eld Mountain, Sybel knows little of mankind, magical creatures summoned by wizardry having been her main source of companionship. The arrival of the baby takes Sybel out of her comfortable life and into realms unknown.

This novel has everything that a fantasy novel should, swords, sorcery, intrigue, betrayal and love. There is a clear sense of good and evil within this elegantly written tale, the narrative evokes a sense of wonder and magic that makes this book special. This is a book that stays with the reader long after the final page has been turned and placed back on the bookshelf.

The characterisation is excellent, creating well-formed, sympathetic and most importantly, realistic characters. The Forgotten Beasts of Eld is reminiscent of Ursula Le Guin’s Earthsea masterpiece, the writing of this generation contains a magic that few modern authors have managed to successfully retain. This is a beautiful, thought-provoking book that will stay with the reader forever.

The Forgotten Beasts of Eld is a timeless classic that can be enjoyed by all ages and readers of all genres. A wonderful, moving read that is a must for all fantasy fans around the world.