A Wizard of Earthsea by Ursula K. Le Guin is the first book of the acclaimed Earthsea series. Young Ged, also known as Sparrowhawk, discovers his extraordinary magical talent and is sent to a school for wizards. Driven by pride, he inadvertently unleashes a dark shadow that threatens his life and the world's balance. Ged's journey to confront this shadow is both a physical quest and a path to self-discovery, where he learns about humility, responsibility, and the true nature of power. Set in the richly imagined archipelago of Earthsea, this novel explores themes of growth, identity, and the balance between light and dark within oneself.
Illustrated by Ruth Robbins
About the Author
Ursula K. Le Guin (1929-2018) was a celebrated American author known for her groundbreaking works of science fiction and fantasy. Over her prolific career, she published over twenty novels, along with numerous short stories, essays, and poetry. Le Guin's work often explores themes of gender, society, and the human condition, and she is particularly renowned for the Earthsea series and the Hainish Cycle. Her novel The Left Hand of Darkness won both the Hugo and Nebula Awards, establishing her as a leading voice in speculative fiction. Le Guin's unique blend of imaginative world-building and profound philosophical insight continues to influence and inspire readers and writers worldwide.