The Black Cauldron by Lloyd Alexander

The second novel in Lloyd Alexander's "Chronicles of Prydain" series, The Black Cauldron, is not my favorite, but it shines a special light on children's fantasy. This Newberry honored series has to be some of my all time favorite kids' books. 

While Taran continues to prove that he is a man worthy of hero status at the age of 13, Arawn plots to destroy Prydain. Prince Gwydion decides to even the chances in the war by stealing the Lord of Death's black cauldron. Small hitch--it has already vanished from Annuvin. If the companions can find the cauldron before Arawn or his servants, the citizens of Prydain might just have a chance to remain free. You can just read the stars glittering in Taran's eyes at the possibility of being the hero to find the cauldron. Unfortunately, the same stars are glittering for Ellidyr (a brilliant character you can only know about by reading books, kids). 

What nobody expects to find is Orgoch, Orddu, and Orwen. I don't think you can ever be prepared for those three. While three old hags in a run-down cottage in the middle of nowhere has been done, these three really make the stereotype worth it. 

My frustration with this book that keeps it from being 5 stars? Taran seriously needs a good dosing of hubris. And this series will make sure he gets it. There is heartbreak aplenty to find with a healthy dose of heroic sacrifice.

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