Enchantress from the Stars

I had always loved reading great books and novels, much more with science fictions. And adding a futuristic theme would make me drool to death. lol!

Kidding aside, for me, sci-fi is more appealing than other genres like fantasy or drama, because your imagination would really bring you on the world where these exist. That is why I love science fiction novels. That is the same reason why I am writing today about one of the novels I like the most.

And the novel I chose to feature is Enchantress from the Stars by Sylvia Louise Engdahl.

Enchantress from the Stars

by Sylvia Louise Engdahl

Reading level: Young Adult
Paperback: 304 pages
Publisher: Firebird (February 24, 2003)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0142500372
ISBN-13: 978-0142500378
Product Dimensions: 6.9 x 4.2 x 0.9 inches
Shipping Weight: 6.4 ounces

Plot Summary on the cover:
The Federation Anthropological Service would never officially have allowed Elana to be on this mission to the medieval planet Andrecia. If Youngling peoples found out that a supremely advanced and enlightened society like the Federation existed, it would irreparably damage their evolution. Stowing away aboard her father's ship, Elana suddenly becomes the key to a dangerous plan to turn back the invasion of Andrecia by an aggressive, space-faring Youngling civilization. How can she possibly help the Andrecians, who still believe in magic and superstition, against a force armed with advanced technology -- without revealing her alien powers?

Apprentice medical officer Jarel wishes that the planet the Imperial Exploration Corps has chosen to colonize didn't have a "humanoid" population already living on it. The invaders don't consider the Andrecians to be human, and Jarel has seen the atrocious treatment the natives get from his people. How can he make a difference, when he alone regrets the destruction that his people bring?

Georyn, youngest son of a poor Andrecian woodcutter, knows only that there is a terrible dragon on the other side of the enchanted forest, and he is prepared to do whatever it takes to defeat it. In his mind, Elana is the Enchantress from the Stars who has come to test him, to prove he is worthy of defeating the dragon and its powerful minions. Despite both Elana's and Jarel's inner turmoil, Georyn's burden is by far the heaviest. Ultimately, he must pit his innocent faith in the magic of his Enchantress from the Stars against foes who have come from a world beyond his comprehension.

About the Author:
Sylvia Louise Engdahl is the author of six novels published between 1970 and 1981 of which Enchantress from the Stars was the first. It was awarded a Newbery Honor in 1971 and the Phoenix Award in 1990. Ms. Engdahl currently resides in Eugene, Oregon, and she encourages you to visit her Website at sylviaengdahl.com

Reviews:
"A beautifully rendered novel with high intelligence, captivating character, and cosmic soul. In many ways, Sylvia Engdahl's writings are the logical successors to Heinlein's derring-do tales of gifted individuals making a difference in human exploration of other worlds. But Engdahl's pace is more leisurely, reflective, and the tapestry she weaves may well outlast Heinlein's.... Although Elana is young, this is a novel for adults of all ages." -Paul Levinson, Amazon.com

"...An original and charming exercise of one of fiction’s finest prerogatives, getting into other skins and seeing through (literally) alien eyes... Girls who like their fantasy realistic, or an aspect of magic to their realism, should enjoy this one." -Ursula LeGuin, New York Times Book Review

"An involved and provocative science fiction story for thoughtful readers." -Booklist

For more reviews and information, check pages on the official site of Sylvia Louise Engdahl about Enchantress from the Stars and Reviews.

My Thoughts:
The best book I have ever read. Not only it is entertaining, the author has conveyed what she wants to share and the message of hope and humanity to its readers.

With regard on the style of writing, I liked how well it was written, in which we are given three different perspectives. Elana's tale is told by her and is the very center of the main plot, is delivered in a very science-fiction manner. Jared's tale focuses more on humanity and conscience. Finally, Georyn's tale is written in a fairy tale like fashion.

If you have time, go grab a copy. I recommend this book!