This narrative is a great adventure that circumvents many overused tropes of the fantasy genre. Delivered with the rich language that Le Guin is know for, this tale is truly worth reading because among the powerful magic and dragons, it ranks mindful understanding over might.

Magic is a means of manipulating and comprehending the balance within the world around Ged, the story's main protagonist. This underlying theme allows the usual fish-out-of-water tale to go in unexpected and under-explored directions. Rather than working towards victory, as most character arcs do, the very dynamic of some final win-lose battle scenario is rendered moot.

The overall story-line, as well as the tone of the text, brought to mind principles of Taoism or Zen Buddhism. By internally exploring his own inner complexities, Ged can better understand the forces at work around him.

I would recommend this novel for any child or adult.