Lora Hates Spam

by Ursula K. Leguin

The first of the classic Earthsea series by Ursula LeGuin. I probably should have read it long ago.

It's a magical Fantasy about wizards and how they are trained in a land called Gont. Ged, the main character, distinguishes himself at a young age and comes to the attention of a mysterious wizard who starts his proper training.

Ged is a flawed character with too much pride and probably not enough maturity to keep up with his abilities, but he does develop after making some epic mistakes.

The pace of the story is generally relaxed and more poetic than exciting. I can see why it stood out in its time, though I'm undecided whether I want to continue the series or not. The action goes through what could have been high adventure, but isn't gripping. There is more of insight than of engagement.

I felt the end was rather predictable and flat. Not the most engaging story I've read in the genre but I'm glad I've read at least the first book of the series now so I know.