June 2023 Recommended Reading and Viewing

[Coír Draoi Ceítien]

Summer begins as we enter June, and I'm glad for the good weather, although I don't look forward to the more uncomfortable heat. While my reading has still remained slow (near nonexistent, actually), I do have something for the month, in addition to a film that I should have recommended a long time ago.

Reading: The Book of Three (1964) by Lloyd Alexander

This is the first volume of the 5-book Chronicles of Prydain, which was one of the first successful series made in the wake of Tolkien's Ring books, as well as one of the earliest young adult fantasy series to start many of the tropes which would follow hereafter. Based on Welsh mythology, the story follows Taran, an assistant pig-keeper to a wizard, who, chasing after an oracular pig, meets a stalwart prince scouting for information on the formidable warlord called the Horned King; after their separation, Taran crosses paths with a stubborn princess and a strange bard, in addition to a bizarre always-hungry humanoid creature, and their journey will take them to the realm of the dwarven Fair Folk, the mystic sanctuary of animals, and the battleground of the Horned King himself. Beloved by readers for decades, this book was one of my own first experiences with high fantasy, and while it's been years since I've read it, I'd love to revisit it again someday, and I think you all would have some enjoyment as well.

Trade: https://www.amazon.com/Book-Three-Chronicles-Prydain/dp/0805080481
Kindle: https://www.amazon.com/Book-Three-Chronicles-Prydain-ebook/dp/B005JDR5PQ/



Viewing: Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade (Steven Spielberg, 1989)

One of the last big hits of the 1980s, this film was, for many years, the conclusion of the trilogy, and is, for many, the best of the films (or at least second or near equal to the first). Set in the WWII era once more, this time Jones is recruited to search for the Holy Grail, which is (again) sought by the Nazis as well, but the quest is also personal because it involves someone from his past - his estranged, irascible father, Henry (Sean Connery), an expert in Grail lore. The journey becomes as much about them as it does the Grail as they must confront each other after many years and come to terms with their differences, the choices they've made, and their different approaches to life. The highlight of the film, of course, is the dynamic between Harrison Ford and the legendary Connery as the Joneses, providing as many laughs as they do tears, though it should be noted that the thrilling action sequences are back in full force, featuring a boat chase, a tank battle, and a final confrontation overcoming three trials to find the Grail. It's a classic adventure and a great last hurrah for a decade of grand spectacles.

DVD: https://www.amazon.com/Indiana-Jones-Last-Crusade-Special/dp/B0014C2FX8
Blu-Ray: https://www.amazon.com/Indiana-Jones-Last-Crusade-Blu-ray/dp/B00FZIIPUO/
4K: https://www.amazon.com/Indiana-Jones-Last-Crusade-Harrison/dp/B0BZ8N65J6
Amazon Video: https://www.amazon.com/Indiana-Jones-Last-Crusade-Harrison/dp/B00GIW0MT8/


I hope these can keep you entertained enough as it gets hotter. Have a great June, and keep the sunscreen handy!