I enjoyed the examinations of gender. I will finish the series. ( )

I found this story more engaging than Gifts, possibly because it is longer and I had the time to slow down and really absorb the story. ( )

Leguin is one of the best science fiction/fantasy authors in the genre's history and she demonstrates her skill in this YA series. Voices is the second of the Annals of the Western Shore saga, but works as a stand-alone volume. Here is a fantasy world where books are outlawed and are kept hidden from an oppressive ruling society. Le Guin, by making books a near-magical item, and by writing with near-magical prose demonstrates the power books can hold. Unlike other fantasy series such as Golden Compass and Tamora Pierce, the story is not bogged down by esoteric jargon. Fantasy fans and non-fans will be able to appreciate this. ( )

This book is a return to the Western Shores, the setting of Gifts. While the main characters from Gifts make an important appearance, this is an independent story. Starting with Gifts is a good introduction to the world, however.

Voices is the story of Ansul, a city under the rule of oppressive enemies and Memer, a halfblood child born under the enemy rule. The Alds are cruel masters, who despise reading and books - not a good thing for the people of Ansul, known for their wisdom and their books. Memer learns dangerous secrets, when the arrival of storyteller Orrec Caspro sets big wheels in motion.

Le Guin portrays both the people of Ansul and the Alds rather well. The Alds are more than illiterate idiots. It's a very beautiful and touching story and I enjoyed it a lot. Voices may be written for young adults, but it won't disappoint an older reader either. Le Guin is a master of her trade.

(Original review at my review blog.) ( )

Pretty good book. A little slow at times. Memer is a strong female character. It also examines war and how two warring people came come to a peaceful solution. ( )