BROOKS FOCUSES ON CHARACTER

Years ago, while teaching in Alaska, I was encouraged by a student to begin reading the Shannara books by Terry Brooks. I really didn't want to, but Tony was insistent that I at least try the prequel, First King of Shannara. Damn Tony, but I was addicted. I have read nearly all of them, except for the Word and Void trilogy and the newest trilogy, the Genesis of Shannara.

I began the Word and the Void trilogy last week by reading Running with the Demon. I wasn't sure what to make of it, although I always liked the idea that the Shannara stories were actually post-apocalyptic. That was one of the few original things that Brooks infused his stories with -- it was obvious for this English major and teacher to see the origins of Brooks' stories. Sword of Shannara = One Ring. Hello!

Anyway, I must say that while it was rather predictable, as Brooks' work can be, it was still an enjoyable story. For me, Brooks is all about his characters. You get involved in their lives. You may find their stories familiar and therefore, predictable, but you want to see them through to the end because his characters are so interesting. Nest Freemark and John Ross are not exceptions. They are intriguing people. Hell, even the demon was intriguing, though I guessed his purpose and his identity pretty early. He was just a little too charismatic to dismiss.

Once again, Brooks entertained me, which is really all I ask when reading fantasy. Or anything else for that matter. On to A Knight of the Word!