Community Reviews

Rating(4 / 5.0, 100 votes)
5 stars
37(37%)
4 stars
24(24%)
3 stars
39(39%)
2 stars
0(0%)
1 stars
0(0%)
100 reviews
July 15,2025
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An awesome adventure awaits those who dare to step out of their comfort zones. It could be a thrilling hike through a dense forest, where the sounds of nature surround you and every step reveals a new wonder. Or perhaps it's a journey to a far-off land, filled with unique cultures, delicious cuisines, and breathtaking landscapes. Maybe it's even a skydiving experience, where you feel the rush of adrenaline as you freefall through the sky. An awesome adventure is about taking risks, facing fears, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. It's about pushing yourself to the limit and discovering what you're truly capable of. So, what are you waiting for? Embrace the unknown and embark on an awesome adventure today!

July 15,2025
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Well, the writing itself was truly beautiful!

It's a great choice if you have a penchant for metaphorical journeys similar to those in Narnia or Labyrinth. In fact, I couldn't help but constantly think of Callie as Sarah. There's also a distinct hint of Earthsea in the worldbuilding and the profound philosophical musings on life and death.

However, it wasn't the absolute greatest read of all time. It had a few不足之处 in character development and believability. For instance, the presence of the weirdly sexual acid trip was rather off-putting. I suppose it was the 80's, and that might explain some of it. I was rather skeptical about how almost everyone they met seemed eager to help them. Additionally, I didn't have much of an affinity for the two main characters, who seemed to possess only about 2 personality traits each. Overall, it doesn't quite hit the mark perfectly, but it was still worth reading for me. It allowed me to witness the evolution of fantasy through the eyes of woman writers and experience the enchanting magic of a different world for a brief period.

July 15,2025
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I truly loved this.

It possessed the same enchanting and dreamy journeying quality that is so characteristic of George MacDonald’s novels.

Similarly, it makes use of religious allegory, but instead of relying on Christian themes, it delves into the rich world of Celtic myth.

I found myself so engrossed that I could have effortlessly read it all in one sitting. However, I deliberately chose to savor it, to let each word and each scene soak in.

It is also extremely interesting to compare the pacing of this work to that of her Dark is Rising series.

The differences and similarities in the way the stories unfold and draw the reader in are truly fascinating and add another layer of depth to the overall reading experience.

Overall, this is a remarkable piece of literature that combines elements of fantasy, mythology, and allegory in a truly captivating way.
July 15,2025
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I read this wonderful book in just one afternoon.

It was truly a beautiful experience. The story was like an adventure that took me to different places and made me feel a range of emotions.

Susan Cooper's writing is simply perfect. She has a way of painting vivid pictures in the reader's mind with her words.

The characters are well-developed and the plot is engaging from start to finish.

I found myself completely immersed in the story and didn't want it to end.

This is definitely a book that I would recommend to others. It's a great read for anyone who loves adventure, beautiful writing, and a good story.

I can't wait to read more of Susan Cooper's work in the future.
July 15,2025
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Meh.

The ending is indeed poignant, as the reviews say. It really tugs at the heartstrings and leaves a lasting impression.

However, the rest of it just wasn't that engaging for me. The story seemed to drag on in some parts, and I found myself losing interest.

It is totally appropriate for younger readers until out of nowhere there's a sensual scene. This came as a bit of a shock and seemed out of place in a story that was otherwise geared towards a younger audience.

I think the author could have done a better job of maintaining the flow and pacing of the story, as well as being more mindful of the intended audience when it came to including certain scenes.

Overall, while the ending was good, the rest of the book left something to be desired.
July 15,2025
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Susan Cooper is truly a master when it comes to creating an atmosphere. However, I find that I rarely have a deep connection with her characters. This was once again my biggest obstacle in fully enjoying this story. I had such a strong desire to know so much more about West and Cally. I wanted to learn about their families, the places they come from, and the details of their lives. But instead, we are suddenly thrown into the story, just as they are thrust from our world into a separate dimension. Together, they traverse this dimension as they head seaward, encountering figures of myth and legend.

It has an otherworldly tone and feel to it, almost to an excessive extent. It has a distant, dreamlike quality that makes for a rich and engaging read. However, a part of me can't help but wish that it was less mystical and more substantial.

Overall, I would rate this story 2.5 stars.
July 15,2025
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I had a profound affection for this book when I delved into it during my 6th grade, which was around 1983. At that time, it left a lasting impression on me. However, as the years passed, my memory of the book gradually faded away.

Recently, I had the good fortune to come across it again. To my surprise, upon re-reading, I discovered that it was intensely weird. But this very weirdness added to its charm and allure.

I am truly glad that I found this book and took the time to re-read it. It has brought back a flood of memories and introduced me to a world that I had long forgotten. It serves as a reminder of the power of books to transport us to different times and places, and to evoke a wide range of emotions within us.

Overall, this experience of re-reading the book has been a wonderful one, and I look forward to exploring more of its mysteries and delights in the future.
July 15,2025
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A lyrical and enchanting tale unfolds, transporting readers to a world where life, death, and love intertwine in the most captivating way. Two young teens find themselves in the mysterious and ancient-feeling Otherworld. Their journey through this strange realm is filled with episodic adventures that keep the reader on the edge of their seat.

The story is beautifully written, with Susan Cooper's words painting vivid pictures in the reader's mind. She skillfully weaves in references to Celtic and Welsh mythology, adding an extra layer of depth and authenticity to the tale.

Cooper's writing is truly delightful, drawing the reader in and making them feel as if they are right there with the characters, experiencing every moment of their adventure. This is a story that will stay with you long after you have turned the last page, leaving you with a sense of wonder and a newfound appreciation for the power of mythology and the beauty of storytelling.
July 15,2025
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I had an intense love for Susan Cooper's "The Dark is Rising" sequence during my childhood. It was a series that truly captured my imagination and took me on countless adventures.

As an adult, when I decided to re-read it, that same love and excitement came flooding back. Although I don't recall this particular book from the sequence as vividly as some of the others, I am fully aware that all of Cooper's books are of great value and well worth reading.

In fact, back in 1985, I wrote in my journal, "I really liked it, especially since it's by Susan Cooper." Her writing has a unique charm and ability to draw readers in, creating a world that is both magical and engaging. Whether you're a child or an adult, Susan Cooper's books are sure to leave a lasting impression.

I highly recommend giving them a try and experiencing the wonder for yourself.
July 15,2025
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I first read this book as a middle school student, having fallen in love with Cooper's The Dark is Rising series. After that, I reread it countless times. However, the story didn't have the same lasting impact on me as TDIR. I suspect that it was the romance and some surprisingly steamy parts that made this a favorite among adolescents.

The book does have echoes of TDIR. For example, Tyrannis and Lugan mirror The Rider and Merriman in certain ways. The theme of young strangers embarking on a larger-than-life quest is also familiar, as are the roots in Celtic mythos (such as the selkies!). But Seaward is definitely geared towards an older audience (and did I mention the sexy bits again?!). It also has a much broader symbolism.

On my reread, I noticed that Westerly and Cally are cute together, although perhaps they are underdeveloped considering they are the protagonists. They are very funny (West's brand of sarcasm is particularly enjoyable to read), but since we meet them just as they are thrust into this world, we don't get to know them much beyond their survival and growing love for each other (and even that isn't explored in great depth). The book is definitely for those who prefer their literature to be heavy on theme and setting rather than character.

I'm glad I reread it. It was a nice comfort read after a long year of demanding work-related book requirements. But I'm not sure if I would need to revisit it again. It pales in comparison to TDIR. Cooper's work truly shines when she can delve deep into the characters she creates (Lugan simply cannot compare to Merriman, who is, in my humble opinion, the best of the old wizardly mentors). And the circumstances that Cally and West encounter seem like fleeting moments compared to the rich adventures that Will Stanton and the Drew children experience.

Still, it gets top marks for the sexy bits.
July 15,2025
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When I was in sixth grade, I had a teacher who was a true enthusiast of fantasy literature.

He had an amazing talent for doing the most excellent voices for every character. Each day, as he read aloud to the entire class, we sat at his feet, completely enthralled.

It was no easy task to keep the attention of a group of eleven and twelve-year-olds like that day after day. He played a huge part in my love for the genre and was responsible for introducing me to many of my all-time favorites.

Two of the most memorable authors he introduced me to were Lloyd Alexander and Susan Cooper. After our class devoured Cooper's The Dark is Rising sequence, I eagerly sought out anything else by her.

A kind school librarian handed me a copy of SEAWARD, and it was love at first sight. I've re-read my copy countless times over the years.

I was surprised to discover how few other Dark is Rising fans seemed to have found it, and I was dismayed to learn that it is now out of print.

SEAWARD tells the story of Westerly, who is constantly on the run from an unnamed danger, and Cally, whose father falls ill and is taken to the seaside.

The two meet up and form a cautious friendship as they try to figure out why they are in this strange land and how they will survive.

In some ways, SEAWARD resembles The Dark is Rising sequence, with its sense of an almost alien world existing alongside our own.

However, it is a much shorter and sweeter story, filled with themes of love and loss. What I love most about this book is how it drops the reader right into the action, making it feel real and intense.

The two main characters, West and Cally, are different but both extremely likable and interesting. The end is bittersweet, and I always find myself turning the pages slower as it approaches, not wanting the story to end.

I highly recommend SEAWARD for fans of Lloyd Alexander, Madeleine L'Engle, and Guy Gavriel Kay.
July 15,2025
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I have a plethora of issues with this book. However, let me commence with the positive aspects.

The relationship between Cally and West was an enjoyable read, and it effectively propelled the story forward.

The narrative seemed to be a sort of metaphor for how teenagers cope with grief, and I adored the advice they received on this matter from one of the older characters towards the end.

Moreover, as a devotee of myths and fairy tales, I relished the allusions to Welsh mythology.

Nevertheless, I did not fancy the writing style. It aspired to sound poetic and filled with sentiment, yet it lacked substance.

The prevalence of sentences commencing with "And" hindered its fluidity, and it ultimately became wearisome to peruse.

The pacing was rather sluggish; few significant events occurred within extended periods.

Now, I am not the type of reader who is solely interested in the plot. My problem with the pacing was that it offered little in return.

When it was not narrating events, it failed to create an original universe in which I could effortlessly immerse myself, or to disclose more about the characters, their personal histories, and how their connection to elements of folklore would impact their lives in a practical sense.

I was seeking a direct link between what the children learned in the fantasy world and how these would influence the real world from which they originated.

So, all things considered, it left me dissatisfied - with the adventure itself, how it concluded, and how the characters were打算 to restart their lives subsequent to it.
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