The world of magic is a fascinating and mystical realm that has captivated the imagination of humans for centuries. It is a realm where anything is possible, where the laws of physics and reality are suspended, and where the extraordinary becomes the norm. For beginners eager to delve into this enchanting world, Kelly Link's book, "Magic for Beginners," is a perfect introduction. Link's book explores the various aspects and nuances of magic in a way that is accessible and relatable. She presents a world where magic intertwines with the everyday, blurring the boundaries between fantasy and reality. Through her stories, Link shows that magic is not confined to ancient spells or mythical creatures, but can be found in the most mundane of situations.
Advanced alchemy.”
The Believer
Link s stories are delightfully playful, almost precocious, as she creates palimpsests of secret passages, hidden doors, quiet pulses of deeper meaning. And it seems like the stone rabbits outside the door might have something to do with that, and with the oddly high numbers of rabbits camping out on their lawn.
Through her stories, Link shows that magic is not confined to ancient spells or mythical creatures, but can be found in the most mundane of situations. One of the main themes in "Magic for Beginners" is the transformative power of magic. Link's characters undergo incredible changes and experiences as they navigate the magic-infused landscape.
Magic for Beginners
The nine stories in Link's second collection are the spitting image of those in her acclaimed debut, Stranger Things Happen : effervescent blends of quirky humor and pathos that transform stock themes of genre fiction into the stuff of delicate lyrical fantasy. In "Stone Animals," a house's haunting takes the unusual form of hordes of rabbits that camp out nightly on the front lawn. This proves just one of several benign but inexplicable phenomena that begin to pull apart the family newly moved into the house as surely as a more sinister supernatural influence might. The title story beautifully captures the unpredictable potential of teenage lives through its account of a group of adolescent schoolfriends whose experiences subtly parallel events in a surreal TV fantasy series. Zombies serve as the focus for a young man's anxieties about his future in "Some Zombie Contingency Plans" and offer suggestive counterpoint to the lives of two convenience store clerks who serve them in "The Hortlak." Not only does Link find fresh perspectives from which to explore familiar premises, she also forges ingenious connections between disparate images and narrative approaches to suggest a convincing alternate logic that shapes the worlds of her highly original fantasies. (July 1)
DETAILS share BUY THIS BOOK close DetailsReviewed on: 06/06/2005
Open Ebook - 272 pages - 978-1-931520-92-8
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From a boy who discovers an enchanted television show to a girl who communicates through a magic telephone booth, each story is a testament to the ability of magic to alter the course of one's life. Another key aspect explored in the book is the ambiguity of magic. Link challenges the notion that magic is inherently good or evil, instead portraying it as a complex and morally grey force. Characters are often faced with difficult choices and must grapple with the consequences of their actions. This ambiguity adds depth and realism to the world of magic, making it all the more intriguing for beginners. Link's prose is lyrical and evocative, transporting readers into a world where anything can happen. Her vivid descriptions and attention to detail bring the magical elements to life, making them feel tangible and believable. This immersive storytelling style makes "Magic for Beginners" an engaging and captivating read for those new to the world of magic. Overall, "Magic for Beginners" by Kelly Link is a mesmerizing exploration of the world of magic. Through her stories, Link invites beginners to embrace the enchantment and wonder that magic offers. Whether it is transforming the ordinary, challenging preconceived notions, or simply providing a means of escape, magic has the power to captivate and inspire. No matter where one's journey into the world of magic begins, "Magic for Beginners" is an excellent starting point..
Reviews for "A Gateway to Enchantment: Discovering Kelly Link's Magical Realms"
1. John - 2/5 stars - I really wanted to like "The world of magic for beginners" by Kelly Link, but I found the book to be quite underwhelming. The plot was confusing and disjointed, making it difficult for me to fully engage with the story. Additionally, I felt that the characters lacked depth and their actions often felt contrived. Overall, I was left feeling disappointed and unsatisfied by this book.
2. Emily - 1/5 stars - "The world of magic for beginners" by Kelly Link was one of the most confusing and bizarre books I have ever read. The author seemed to prioritize creating a sense of ambiguity and randomness over providing a coherent and compelling narrative. I couldn't connect with any of the characters and found myself questioning why I even bothered finishing the book. If you enjoy stories that make absolutely no sense and leave you scratching your head in confusion, then maybe this book is for you. But personally, I wouldn't recommend it.
3. Michael - 2/5 stars - I struggled to find any enjoyment in "The world of magic for beginners" by Kelly Link. The writing style was overly pretentious and self-indulgent, which made it difficult for me to connect with the story. The plot was too convoluted and lacked focus, jumping from one random event to another without any clear direction. I found myself constantly rereading passages to try and make sense of what was happening, but ultimately, it just felt like a waste of my time. I wouldn't recommend this book to anyone who prefers coherent storytelling and well-developed characters.