Graceling

Right before the Thanksgiving holiday, I went to the library to see if I could find some books to read while I was in Athens. It was there that I saw the popular Graceling by Kristin Cashore. Now having the opportunity to read it, I checked it out and I’m so glad that I did.

I loved Katsa and her strong character. I also enjoyed the world-building that author created (I found myself referring the maps at the front of the book several times). Katsa is character who has been given great powers but what I liked about this book is how she learned the true essence of her gift. How she alone could determine how to wield her power instead of others. I also liked the strong character in Po and how despite his own powers, he yielded to let Katsa be her true self. He wasn’t jealous or vindictive. He didn’t want to own her. He wanted to be her partner.

Anytime I read about strong female characters (and they are many that are in this book) it’s always a plus for me.

Kristin also wrote a great NaNoWriMo Pep Talk essay for Week 3. Here’s some excerpts that resonated with me:

“Self-doubt and fear are just part of the process. Those voices are never going to go away. Write anyway. Take a breath; go for a walk; look at the stars; listen to OutKast and shake it like a Polaroid picture; and then, sit down and write anyway.

[...]

Breathe. Be kind to yourself. Don’t panic. Take risks. Make messes. Decide every day that in your writing toolbox, next to the fear and self-doubt, you are also going to keep at least one tiny little seed of faith. That’s all you need to keep going—one mustard seed. Keep tight hold on that faith, and keep writing.”

So even if you’re not a hardcore fantasy fan, but you love strong female characters who determine their own destiny, plus a little romance, you should give this book a try.