This is the first of the de Lint books that I have read, so I did not know what to expect. It was more than I imagined from a book of only 250 pages. The world he created was believable and even though not described in detail it was well-crafted. His actual prose were very good and the characters, for the most part, varied. The setting is much deeper than one would expect, I could see an epic 800+ volume set within this backdrop. The chapters were short and kept the story on a rapid pace. It reminded me a lot of the White Hart by Nancy Springer another excellent (short) book.

De Lint is by far the best at blending urban reality with fantastical lands that are just "around the corner". He has done it again with this book. I have as many of his books as I could get my hands on...you'll be hooked, although Moonheart was by far his best. If you like him, you'll also like the Taliswoman series by Carole Nelson Douglas...Book 3 of that series is coming in November, 1999. (The other 2 are Cup of Clay and Seed Upon the Wind.)

The Story: At a young age, a girl named Angharad who grew up as a tinker, is identified by a wizard as having the Summerblood (being a witch, having some of the green (Faerie) in her). She is taught the ways of a witch, and also is granted a harp, and the ability to play it, by the kowrie (elves). This is all prelude to her being sent, by the old gods, on a dual mission: help reawaken the green (magic) in those who have the ability, and destroy an ancient and evil talisman that could destroy all those who possess the Summerblood. Along the way, she is harassed and tormented, but also finds unexpected allies.

Technical: The writing is flawless, as one would expect from de Lint, but this book differs in format from most of his other books. The pace is much faster than in most de Lint stories and, while Angharad does collect a small band of allies along the way, this story focuses much more on one character than do most de Lint books, which often feature ensemble casts. As usual for a de Lint book, though, there is a heavy cultural component. Another difference is that the culture is a mythical one, albeit one closely kin to Celtic culture. While many of the names are clearly Celtic-ish, the map given in the beginning is NOT of the British Isles (although it is a cluster of island-nations off the west coast of a continent).

Overall: Hang on tight and prepare for a wild and magical ride through a tale that will not be ignored, once begun!