Fantasy· United States
The Earthsea quartet
by Ursula K. Le GuinAggregate Editorial Score30/100
#18,085of 99,626 books
Kirkus Reviews
Published 1977English
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The Earthsea quartet by Ursula K. Le Guin is a landmark work of fantasy, first published in 1977. A beloved work of fantasy, The Earthsea quartet by Ursula K. Le Guin (1977) has enchanted generations of readers with its magical storytelling.
Book Details
About the Category
🐉 Fantasy
Stories set in imaginary worlds with magical or supernatural elements.
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🇺🇸 United States
This book is part of United States's rich literary tradition.
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Ursula K. Le Guin published The Earthsea quartet in 1977, and it has since become one of the more widely recognised works of fantasy from United States. The book's treatment of the human condition accounts for much of its enduring reputation.
Critics and institutions have consistently placed The Earthsea quartet among the notable works of its period. Our aggregate score of 30/100 is compiled from 1 editorial sources that range from Nobel and Booker committees to leading literary journals.
Readers coming to The Earthsea quartet for the first time will find a work that rewards patience. The book's handling of the human condition is layered rather than didactic, and a second reading often reveals dimensions the first pass only hinted at.
Within United States's literary landscape, Ursula K. Le Guin occupies a significant position. The Earthsea quartet is both a personal artistic statement and a contribution to a tradition shaped by the country's history and cultural concerns.
About this assessment: Editorial scores are aggregated from 1 independent sources including major literary prizes, critical surveys, and leading publications. Our editorial team reviews and contextualises this data. Rankings reflect critical consensus, not personal opinion or popularity metrics. Learn about our methodology.
Awards & Recognition
Kirkus Reviews
notable · national
197730
Ursula K. Le Guin is a celebrated author from United States known for influential works of science fiction.
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