Book Review
Book of a Thousand Days
by Shannon Hale
Read if you're interested in spiritual growth, relationships, or books for young adult.
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7.5
VerdictRecommended
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Book Summary
This fantasy novel follows Dashti, a mucker who becomes a maidservant to Lady Saren and is sealed in a tower with her for seven years. Through hardship and isolation, Dashti must navigate betrayal, survival, and her own loyalties while also discovering love.
What it does well
- — Explores themes of loyalty, perseverance, and sacrifice in the face of adversity.
- — Highlights the inner strength and resourcefulness of a seemingly insignificant character.
- — The protagonist, Dashti, demonstrates kindness and compassion even when treated poorly.
Watch for
- — While not explicitly anti-Christian, the book's spiritual elements are generic fantasy rather than explicitly Christian.
- — Some instances of magical elements and a non-Christian deity (the god of the seven mountains), which might be a minor point of discernment for some Christian readers.
- — The 'betrothal' plot includes some deceit and manipulation among characters, though these are generally depicted negatively.
Verdict
This is a well-written fantasy suitable for Christian readers who enjoy allegorical themes of perseverance and inner strength. Parents may wish to discuss the generic magical elements and the depiction of deception with younger readers, framing it within a biblical worldview of truth and God's sovereignty.
ALIGNMYREAD RECOMMENDATION
“This is a well-written fantasy suitable for Christian readers who enjoy allegorical themes of perseverance and inner strength. Parents may wish to discuss the generic magical elements and the depiction of deception with younger readers, framing it within a biblical worldview of truth and God's sovereignty.”
Biblical alignment
- —Explores themes of loyalty, perseverance, and sacrifice in the face of adversity.
- —Highlights the inner strength and resourcefulness of a seemingly insignificant character.
- —The protagonist, Dashti, demonstrates kindness and compassion even when treated poorly.
- —Shows the importance of hope and maintaining one's spirit during difficult trials.
- —Themes of self-worth and finding one's voice, regardless of social standing, are present.
Areas of concern
- —While not explicitly anti-Christian, the book's spiritual elements are generic fantasy rather than explicitly Christian.
- —Some instances of magical elements and a non-Christian deity (the god of the seven mountains), which might be a minor point of discernment for some Christian readers.
- —The 'betrothal' plot includes some deceit and manipulation among characters, though these are generally depicted negatively.
Written for
Discussion
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