A Wizard of Earthsea

The Earthsea Cycle, Book 1

By: Ursula K. Le Guin

Narrated by: Rob Inglis

Length: 7 hrs and 17 mins

Publisher's summary

"The shapeless mass of darkness split apart. It sundered, and a pale spindle of light gleamed between his open arms. In the oval of light there moved a human shape: a tall woman...beautiful, and sorrowful, and full of fear." - from A Wizard of Earthsea, first in a tetralogy that includes The Tombs of Atuan and The Farthest Shore, introduces the listener to Ged, the greatest sorcerer in all Earthsea, known also as Sparrowhawk. When Sparrowhawk casts a spell that saves his village from destruction at the hands of the invading Kargs, Ogion, the Mage of Re Albi, encourages the boy to apprentice himself in the art of wizardry. So, at the age of 13, the boy receives his true name - Ged - and gives himself over to the gentle tutelage of the Master Ogion. But impatient with the slowness of his studies and infatuated with glory, Ged embarks for the Island of Roke, where the highest arts of wizardry are taught. There, Ged's natural talents enable him to surpass his classmates in little time. But when his vanity prompts him to summon Elfarran, the fair lady of the Deed of Enlad, he unleashes a shapeless mass of darkness - the shadow.

©1968 Ursula K. Le Guin (P)1992 Recorded Books, LLC

Straight from Appendix N!

Appendix N is a Dungeons and Dragons reference where Gygax put a list of authors that inspired the game. Le Guin was added to it, and with good reason. It's like reading a classic work of literature, with lessons about philosophy and balance placed throughout.

When reading this, you might think that this is standard fantasy, but understand that this was written in 1968! Tolkien and other authors are active even earlier, but this brings its own innovations. I'm going to go straight into her other books now.

I should also mention that the reader's voice is perfect for this style of story.

I could not get through this book

The halting reading style of the narrator was distracting to the point of ruining the story. I didn't know I could get a refund back when I purchased this or I would have.

Elegant Fantasy with Character

Le Guin said it herself that Art should not be about extracting profits but instead about truth and freedom. Wizard exemplifies this beautifully with elegant poetic prose, flawed and realistic characters, and an eye towards representating some unattractive truths about humanity. Ged will not become your favorite protagonist. But, you will come to appreciate how beautifully "in the flesh" his struggles and arc feel.

Immediately listening again

It was hard to get into, with long sweeping narratives, little dialogue and little insight into characters’ emotions and psyche. But as soon as I finished it, I started over to listen again. Loved the ending and it was totally worth it.

Great story, excellent narration

Earthsea is a great story, even better as parable, LeGuin is a true master. Rob Inglis is a treasure, his narrations are without parallel.

Starts slow

Starts slow, but is a great fantasy novel with a soft magic system reminiscent of Tolkien’s. I picked it up on a whim and definitely recommend it.

My all time favorite book and excellent narrator

The best fantasy book out there. Loved every minute of it and it’s the only audiobook I listen to nearly every year. Short and to the point. Excellent ending and awesome storytelling. I love the mystery of the magic and the prose is enchanting.

Boring… little character development

This book was boring. There is little character development. I didn’t find myself really caring too much for the main character. Not enough description in the bond between friends, family, and mentors. Too fast moving that you get no appreciation for characters and landscapes.

Addictive and beautifully written

Once I started listening to this book I couldn’t stop. Absolutely loved it, from start to finish.

Good Vivid Story

The author tells a good story and paints a wonderfully vivid world. The ending is a bit abrupt, but otherwise all good.

The narrator has a great voice and does decent female voices. My only real gripe is that they recorded it with the volume down so low. Even turning my phone all the way up it, I couldn't walk very far away and still understand what was being said.