3/5 stars

The Black Cauldron (The Chronicles of Prydain, #2) by Lloyd Alexander

This book has no clothes!

Oh, wait…I’m getting my allegories mixed up. The emperor wasn’t wearing any clothes, but only a little girl had the sense to point it out. Or maybe she lacked the sense to keep it to herself.

So do I have any sense? Probably not. Because despite the universal love and adoration of this book, I found it dull, witless, and entirely unbelievable.

Book one was the same way, but I assumed things would get better. They don’t–at least not through the second book. I’m certain I’m not that far off on my book interpretations. The folks that read the books as kids must hold a sentimental attachment as adults. It’s the only explanation I can come up with, and one I can certainly understand. But honestly–I felt like the story was so bad even kids will be left scratching their heads.

As a redeeming quality, the story is earnest and sincere. There are good values being taught, and the characters remain somewhat endearing. I’m going to give book three a chance before I pull the plug. I’m also going to have my kids read them so I can see what they think of the story. If they love the books, I might go back and adjust my ratings.

But for now I’m playing the part of the senseless little girl. This book has no clothes!