Review Detail

Reader reviewed by Richard Mandrachio

This sequel to Pearl Norths Libyrinth comes from the unexpected viewpoint of Po, an Ilysian teenager who has problems adjusting to the culture of the newly independent Libyrinth whose inhabitants, Singers and Libyrarians, now coexist peacefully.  Pos struggle to find a place in this agrarian society leaves him conflicted in his loyalties and lacking in self-confidence.  Due to his naivete, he is held responsible for the fact that they are all faced with imminent starvation.  In order to atone for his misconduct, Po is recruited for a quest that could solve both his problems and those of the Libyrinthian community.  

The Boy from Ilysies melds a coming-of-age story with the role of literacy in society as well as the dangers of oppressive regimes.  Though its locale is off-world and in some distant future, the narrative explores archetypes in such a fashion as to read like history or, at least, stuff of legend.  It is written in a voice at once adolescent and adult, making it appropriate for many age groups.  In the course of Pos adventures, this reluctant hero discovers a path to his self-worth, a theme that is always timeless and cross-cultural.