The Book of Merlyn: The Unpublished Conclusion to The Once and Future King | 
so-soThis was fascinating, even though I didn‘t particularly enjoy it. I don‘t think it adds a lot to White‘s Arthurian cycle. It was interesting to read as context for what I‘m assuming are White‘s own thoughts & philosophies, as well as context for the time in which it was written. But it felt like White was trying too hard to make sure readers got his point (and maybe I disagree with his point). Continued ⬇️
“Our main object in life,” she said with amusement, “is to be alive. I think your humans may have forgotten this one.”
From the introduction:
“In the analysis of Guenever, where he had nothing personal to go on, he speculates, and does his best to overcome his aversion to women.”
Well, that explains a LOT. #OAFKingalong
so-soI agree with so many others who have said this is the worst of the series, but I did love seeing the characters‘ stories wrapped up. I also got to read the ant & swan sections so many mentioned from The Sword in the Stone. My version didn‘t have it in that section. Apparently it was originally in this book, but was shoved into the first book in later editions. Heavy-handed on the messaging, but I‘m still glad I read it. #OAFKingAlong @BarbaraJean
Tagging the #OAFKingAlong list, because I remember a couple of people were wanting to or planning on reading The Book of Merlyn, but I don‘t remember who. 🤦🏻♀️ Does anyone want to do a low key buddy read of this? Maybe one discussion at the end of May?
AvidReader25, rubyslippersreads, BkClubCare, Lcsmcat, MeganAnn, Vansa, Suet624, batsy, wordslinger42, Bluebird, TheAromaofBooks, RaeLovesToRead, Read-y_Picker, currentlyreadinginCO
Slowly gathering up my scattered books. This cover is one of my favorites in my King Arthur collection.
I love Trevor Stubley's illustrations in this!
I'm working instead of partying tonight but Happy St. Patrick's day everyone! ☘️
"who are these readers?"
"the readers of the book."
"what book?"
"the book we are in."
"are we in a book?"
~ exchange between arthur & merlyn in t.h. white's "the book of merlyn."
?✨?
Even if I didn't work with unschoolers, I would think this quote pretty perfect...😌
Finally found a copy of this book that I never even knew existed despite loving The Once and Future King and the Sword in the Stone. The illustrations are killer! Normally I would go back and re TOAFK again before tackling this unpublished conclusion but it's packed away. So I'm going in. "There was a king..."
pickIt took me much longer than it should have to read this slim volume, but the last book in The Once and Future King packs quite a punch.
T.H. White's personal beliefs on war and the meaning of humanity shine through a return of young Wart's original animal council. If you didn't have dreadful feelings about mid-20th century authors, you will now.
In the end, I have to disagree with the prologue, where it calls this “the true last chapter of The Once and Future King.” I suppose if White intended it to be so, then it is, but ⬇️ (edited) 1y
What did the rest of you think? 1y