The Book of Three

The Book of Three, by Lloyd Alexander
ISBN: 0805080481
Publisher: Henry Holt, 2006

Taran lives in Prydain, working as an assistant pig-keeper.  The land is threatened by The Horned King, but Taran is too young to fight.  In fact, Taran is too young to even learn to fight.  Still, he dreams of fighting, saving the land and earning glory.  Taran dreams of adventure, but is surprised when it finds him.  Unforseen circumstances put Taran on the battlefield, and he must do his best to save Prydain from the Horn King.  An oracle pig, a troubador, and a sarcastic princess help Taran on his journey.  The Book of Three is an excellent choice for readers who need something to read after Lord of the Rings, or for readers who find Tolkien's work too advanced.