This may be my favorite book in the series, though it's hard to choose. Longing to prove himself of noble birth (and so prove himself worthy of a certain princess) Taran sets out to discover his parentage. Bringing back some old friends-as well as Orddu, Orwen and Orgoch, who can't really be described as friends or indeed at all-and introducing some new ones, this book is the most introspective of the lot. Though there's plenty of action (including a couple of memorable battle scenes), this story is really about finding out who you are-virtues, faults and all-and coming to terms with it. In short, it's about becoming an adult.
All truly great stories lead you to invest in the characters, to weep for their losses and cheer for their victories-to become a silent but loving friend. Taran tends to chastise himself for his failures more than rejoice in his successes, and while I cringe every time he beats himself up, I also recognize myself in him.
Author: Lloyd Alexander
Potentially objectionable content: Some intense battle scenes and the series' scariest villain
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