Prydain Chronicles (Book 4): Taran Wanderer

Reader reviewed by TheBookworm

Taran Wanderer by Lloyd Alexander
3 out of 5 stars

Taran Wanderer Book Four in the Prydain Chronicles by Lloyd Alexander was a well organized, thought inducing read.

Assistant Pig-keeper Taran of Caer Dallben has fantasized about this quest for many years. He wishes to wed Princess Eilonwy, but he can not until he learns of his parentage. Secretly hoping to be of noble birth, Taran and his faithful companion, Gurgi, set off. Early on in his Quest Taran displays wisdom, kindness, courage, and loyalty, but as the journey lengthens and lies develop, Taran has his own share of shame, guilt, weakness, unsureness, and sadness. Quickly the Quest turns from being a search for the identity of Tarans parents, to a Quest of learning. A learning of understanding, acceptance, forgiveness, and what it truly means to be ones self.

What I like about this book is the connection between the main character, Taran, and the reader. You get giddy and happy when Taran triumphs or succeeds. Your brow furrows when Taran is thinking, as if you where the one making the decisions. You redden and feel embarrassed when Taran acts shamefully. The reader feels the same emotions as Taran, so they also go on a journey not just through the pages of this book, but also learn what it means to be a friend and person.

It isnt the easiest book to understand, and that is a con. The way the characters talk and use older words makes it hard to follow along and join the characters in their conversations and time together. This book is full of life lessons that are hard to grasp. You may share emotions with the characters, but it is difficult to share much else with them.

Taran Wanderer was as adventure full of thought and lessons on personal growth that stood out in a strange and unique flow and language.