by Madeline L'Engleages: 8-11
First sentence: "The big kitchen of the Murrys' house was bright and warm, curtains drawn against the dark outside, against the rain driving past the house from the northeast."
I never much liked this one, even as a kid. And the only reason I can think of, now, is that it's because Meg isn't really a part of the story. Oh, she's there: she's older now, married to Calvin, and pregnant with her first child. But she's not really an active part in the story. She spends the book lying on a bed kything with Charles Wallace, who, at age 15, is off on an adventure of his own.
And honestly his adventure -- saving the world from certain destruction by Madog Branzillo -- isn't really that interesting. He rides through time with a unicorn/Pegasus creature named Gaudior, popping in and out of within other people. I'm sure it has a very nice and neat conclusion, where Madog is stopped (not that it was memorable enough to stay with me), but honestly, I gave up halfway through. Charles Wallace was never my favorite character; he was always a bit too precocious for my taste. It was Meg I liked, Meg that resonated with me. And a Meg that just lies around being worried for Charles Wallace is kind of boring. Even now -- perhaps especially now -- after I'm all grown up, living the life that Meg was starting out on.
I feel bad about it, though. Like I'm giving up on some part of my childhood. Perhaps some books just shouldn't be reread?
6 observations:
You know, I've never read anything by Madeline L'Engle! It's probably a shame since I teach middle school...I know A Wrinkle in Time is suppose to be brilliant, but it's one of those books that I've heard so much about I almost feel like I've read it!!
Interesting... JAM and I read AWIT recently, but I wasn't planning on reading the others with him. I suggested he could try to read the whole "series" by himself this summer if he wanted. I think you just solidified my decision. :)
Swiftly Tilting Planet was my favorite of the Murray books when I was a kid, but I completely agree that Meg gets dull at this point. I missed insecure anxious Meg! :(
I love L'Engle's Murray Family books, and though this wasn't my favorite I have to say parts of it have stuck with me, even 30 years after reading the book. This book touched on the dysfunction of Meg's boyfriend's extended family in such a way that I still remember it. I may have to pick it up and give it a re-read!
Christina: AWIT is a really good book. Surprisingly religious, but really good overall. The others... I haven't enjoyed as much.
Dawn: yes. NOW is the time for JAM to read the books. I should get C to read them, too.
Jenni: I did, too. I liked Meg most, and I liked her insecurity. I missed that.
And rmlhonda: that is a good point. I can't say it stuck with me, but I can see how it might.
At least someone is reading these books... I still haven't read book 3 yet or posted about it..
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