Larger	The Book of Three (Chronicles of Prydain, Bk 1) Author: Lloyd Alexander
	Book Information Publisher: Bantam Doubleday Dell Publishing Group Book Type: Paperback Rating: 3 ISBN-13: 9780440900542 - ISBN-10: 0440900549 Publication Date: 7/1993 Reading Level: Ages 9-12

Since The Book of Three was first published in 1964, young readers have been enthralled by the adventures of Taran the Assistant Pig-keeper and his quest to become a hero. Taran is joined by an engaging cast of characters that includes Eilonwy, the strong-willed and sharp-tongued princess; Fflewddur Fflam, the hyperbole-prone bard; the ever-faithful Gurgi; and the curmudgeonly Doli -- all of whom become involved in an epic struggle between good and evil that shapes the fate of the legendary land of Prydain. Released over a period of five years, Lloyd Alexander's beautifully written tales not only captured children's imaginations but also garnered the highest critical praise. The Black Cauldron was a Newbery Honor Book, and the final volume in the chronicles, The High King, crowned the series by winning the Newbery Medal for "the most distinguished contribution to American literature for children." In their more than thirty years in print, the Chronicles of Prydain have become the standard of excellence in fantasy literature for children.