The Prydain Chronicles Book Four: Taran Wanderer

By: Lloyd Alexander

Narrated by: James Langton

Taran, the assistant pig-keeper who wants to be a hero, goes questing for knowledge of his parentage, hoping that his journey will ennoble him in the eyes of Eilonwy, the princess with the red-gold hair. Accompanied by several loyal friends, Taran begins his search when three wily enchantresses of the Marshes of Morva send him to consult the Mirror of Llunet for the answers he is seeking, cryptically promising that "the finding takes no more than the looking." During his adventures he meets Craddoc, the shepherd, and the common people of Prydain, whom he comes to respect and admire. With their help, he continues his mission to learn the secret of the Mirror and the truth about himself.©1967 Lloyd Alexander; (P)2004 Random House, Inc. Listening Library, an imprint of the Random House Audio Publishing Group

Remarkable

This is a truely remarkable collection of short stories woven or shaped around the main character. All who would dare to wander should give this book a read.

Best of the Series

The Prydain Chronicles was one of my favorite fantasy series as a child. I decided to listen to it again largely out of nostalgia. The story incorporates many old Welsh myths to weave an exciting fantasy world that centers on a boy who dreams of accomplishing big deeds but learns both humanity and courage.

This is my favorite book in the series. Taran has to discover himself through taking on new challenges ranging from farming to blacksmithing to weaving. In the process, he learns more about himself and the value of other people--even those that aren't great heroes.

This book might be a bit scary for very young children but most ages 7 and up will enjoy the magic and adventure.

A tale of manhood and finding oneself

Taran Wanderer is not an adventure story in the same vein as the previous 3 tales. It follows Taran as he quests to find his parentage. While not a traditional adventure tale as the previous stories there are nonetheless some timeless lessons Taran learns along the way and, of course, adventures.

Timeless classic

I cannot count the number of times we have listened to this treasure of an audiobook (the whole series is magical). Every member of our family has enjoyed them, kids and parents alike.

Wayfarers still journeying for Wanderers at rest

This installment to the Pyrdain Chronicles is my least favorite, The story seemed a little disjointed with him learning the new crafts at the end, but this was all important for him to learn for the next book.