The Lost Gate

Mithermages, Book 1

By: Orson Scott Card

Narrated by: Stefan Rudnicki, Emily Janice Card

Length: 12 hrs and 22 mins

Publisher's summary

Orson Scott Card’s The Lost Gate is the first book in the Mithermages series from the New York Times bestselling author of Ender’s Game.

Danny North knew from early childhood that his family was different—and that he was different from them. While his cousins were learning how to create the things that commoners called fairies, ghosts, golems, trolls, werewolves, and other such miracles that were the heritage of the North family, Danny worried that he would never show a talent, never form an outself.

He grew up in the rambling old house, filled with dozens of cousins and aunts and uncles, all ruled by his father. Their home was isolated in the mountains of western Virginia, far from town, far from schools, far from other people.

There are many secrets in the House, and many rules that Danny must follow. There is a secret library with only a few dozen books, and none of them in English—but Danny and his cousins are expected to become fluent in the language of the books. While Danny’s cousins are free to create magic whenever they like, they must never do it where outsiders might see.

Unfortunately, there are some secrets kept from Danny as well. And that will lead to disaster for the North family.

©2011 Orson Scott Card (P)2010 Blackstone Audio, Inc.

Critic reviews

"[T]his ambitious tale is well crafted, highly detailed, and pleasantly accessible." (Publishers Weekly)

superb storytelling

This is an excellent, well crafted story with certain depth and even a little complexity that one is not usually expecting from a YA fantasy book. Highly recommend. Unless you are looking for some pink snot and romance, none of that here; a huge plus, in my opinion.

not his best but still Card

I spent more time trying to analyze what I love about OSC than listening to the actual story. I don't think I liked the switching around in perspective so much and some of the bits I had a little issue with.

I did get into it and did listen to it clear through which is a good sign I am engaged, if some of that time my eyebrows were trying to connect in the middle.

I think the painful childhood was a little too painful and hard to take. Also the character seemed like Ender Wiggen all over again at times, though not driven to safe the planet so much as save himself. (a worthy enough goal)

It felt like the story was sort of patched together out of pieces and I think he came on at the end and affirmed this to be the case.

OSC may be the best living author of fantasy fiction, there is a strong earthy flavor to his characters which never fails to impress - and probably keep my attention.

Please sir, may I have another

Good book. What you want and expect from OSC. Now lets have the next book!!

Different, but interesting

This was a surprisingly good book. Someone wrote a review saying it was copying Harry Potter but it's nothing like Harry Potter! It's a little confusing at first but it all ties together at the end.

Give it time, its amazing

Would you listen to The Lost Gate again? Why?

I have listened to it twice. The first time I was confused on the storyline until almost the end, so the second time I really enjoyed it.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

No. At least not the first time.

Any additional comments?

It was annoying at first since I thought two different characters were the same people just in different time. Once I figured it out the story, the magic system, the characters were all so impressive that I'd strongly suggest listening to this book.

ear turner!

great story, great narration, did not want to put it down! There are two intertwining stories, nicely done; Rudnicki is wonderful as always. I have only read a few Orson Scott Card books, but will definitely look for more.

Not a child’s books

It’s ok. Not terrible but I’m 14 chapters in and not a hint of action at all. Theirs two different stories one in mid-guard and one in a different world and so far they don’t mesh at all. Hopefully something changes soon.

Now to address the title of this post.
This book is not for kids it has parts that are vulgar and kids shouldn’t here it.

Good story a little incomplete

Would you consider the audio edition of The Lost Gate to be better than the print version?

The reading and narration is good as is the story however book one and book two seem like they should really be one book as the story kind of ends where if feels like it should begin.

Classic Card all the way

Classic Card, well written, great engaging story, makes you think, can't wait for the next book in the series. Write faster Mr. Card!

Amazing book

Card is one of my favorite authors! This book is every bit as intriguing and engaging as Enders Game! Cannot wait to listen to the rest of them!