50 pages 1 hour read

Ursula K. Le Guin

The Tombs of Atuan

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1971

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

The Tombs of Atuan by Ursula K. Le Guin takes place in the Earthsea archipelago and follows Tenar, a young Kargish girl believed to be the reincarnation of the high priestess Arha, as she is indoctrinated into serving the Nameless Ones. When Ged, a Hardic wizard, is captured attempting to steal a powerful talisman, Tenar's interactions with him challenge her beliefs and lead her to question her loyalty to her society. The book contains sensitive topics such as forced removal of a child from their family and the starvation of prisoners.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

The Tombs of Atuan by Ursula K. Le Guin has been praised for its rich world-building and deep character development. Le Guin's prose is elegant and evocative, immersing readers in a captivating and mysterious narrative. Some critics find the pacing slow, but overall, it is celebrated for its thoughtful exploration of identity and power.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Tombs of Atuan?

Readers who enjoy immersive fantasy, strong female protagonists, and coming-of-age tales will relish The Tombs of Atuan by Ursula K. Le Guin. Fans of The Chronicles of Narnia and A Wizard of Earthsea will appreciate its richly woven mythology and profound exploration of identity and power.

Recommended

Reading Age

13-18years

Lexile Level

840L

Book Details

Genre

Fantasy

Science-Fiction / Dystopian Fiction

Action / Adventure

Themes

Identity: Gender

Life/Time: Coming of Age

Values/Ideas: Religion & Spirituality