Take Two Review: The Forgotten Beasts of Eld

Every once in awhile I like to re-read the books that I loved when I was younger - my second opinion is a Take Two Review.
The Forgotten Beasts of Eld, Patricia A. McKillip
(Gr 7+)
Magic Carpet Books, January 1st 2006. (first published August 1st 1974). Reviewed from library book.

"Sixteen when a baby is brought to her to raise, Sybel has grown up on Eld Mountain. Her only playmates are the creatures of a fantastic menagerie called there by wizardry. Sybel has cared nothing for humans, until the baby awakens emotions previously unknown to her. And when Coren--the man who brought this child--returns, Sybel's world is again turned upside down."

I first stumbled upon this book when I was in 6th or 7th grade, and I gobbled it up as fast as I could. It's still one of those books who's images stay with my imagination and that I can recall almost instantly. What was it about this story that I loved so much and that's stayed with me for so long? I figured a second (okay more life 4th) reading would give me some fresh insight.

First off, I remember instantly loving Sybel. She is such a unique character. She's a strong, independent young woman who really and truly doesn't need anyone, almost to a fault. If Coren had never shown up on her doorstep with baby Tamlorn, she probably would have lived out her entire life in solitude. She has her animals to keep her company, but she would never have placed any value on human relationships if one hadn't been forced upon her. Yet, once she is put in charge of a baby, she quickly learns the value of human love. She knows that she can't care for him alone and so reaches out to Maelga, a witch woman (and my FAVORITE character) for help. Together, Tam and Maelga show Sybel the importance of having a family.

The setting was also something that stayed with me. There are certain places that are easier for my imagination to conjure up than others, and Eld Mountain is at the top of the list. Sybel's home, filled with places for her animals to live - a cave for the dragon, a lake for the black swan - and isolated from the world, was an imaginary safe place for my middle school self. What girl wouldn't want a house filled with books, comfort, and magical creatures to talk to who would all do anything to protect you? Sounds perfect to me.

Of course I had an instant crush on Coren. He's strong, loyal, smart, honest, and (in my mind) super handsome. I liked that he was the kind of leading man who wanted Sybel to be herself. The angriest he ever got at her was when she lied to him, he knew she wasn't perfect, and he loved her anyway. Sigh, bestill my sixth grade heart.

Pick up this GREAT fantasy novel that (in my mind) is just as good to read if you're a middle schooler or a done with schooler.