The Farthest-Away Mountain

The Farthest-Away Mountain tells the story of a fourteen-year-old girl who made three childhood vows: to reach the Farthest-Away Mountain, speak to a gargoyle, and marry a prince. When the mountain mysteriously nods to her one morning, she begins a quest to fulfill these promises. The tale follows her journey through an enchanted realm where magic exists and mountains can come alive. Her path leads her to face challenges, interact with magical creatures, and confront the mysterious Master who rules over the Farthest-Away Mountain. The story incorporates traditional fantasy elements including gnomes, gargoyles, and magical rings, set against the backdrop of a mountain that once welcomed good people but has fallen under dark influence. The novel explores themes of determination, courage, and the power of childhood dreams, while examining the nature of good versus evil in a world where magic can be used for both noble and corrupt purposes.

Readers call this a fast-paced fairy tale with classic elements like quests, magic, and talking creatures. Many mention reading it as children and finding it holds up well when revisiting as adults. Readers appreciate: - Dakin's independence and determination as a protagonist - Brief length makes it accessible for young readers - Creative magical elements and creatures - Clear moral messages without being preachy Common criticisms: - Some feel the ending wraps up too quickly - A few readers found the romance subplot underdeveloped - Several mention the book feeling dated in parts Ratings: Goodreads: 4.13/5 (2,800+ ratings) Amazon: 4.7/5 (230+ ratings) "Perfect balance of whimsy and adventure" - Goodreads reviewer "The story that made me fall in love with fantasy as a child" - Amazon reviewer "Wish it was longer but love how much story fits in a short book" - Goodreads reviewer

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🌟 Lynne Reid Banks wrote her first book, "The Indian in the Cupboard," while working as a television reporter for ITN in London. 🌟 The concept of a sentient mountain in "The Farthest-Away Mountain" draws from various mythologies, including Norse legends where mountains were believed to be sleeping giants. 🌟 The book was published in 1976, during a significant boom in children's fantasy literature that included works like "The Sword of Shannara" and "The Tangle Box." 🌟 The gargoyles in the story connect to medieval architectural traditions, where these sculptures served both as decorative waterspouts and as symbolic guardians against evil spirits. 🌟 Banks has stated that many of her stories, including "The Farthest-Away Mountain," were inspired by the bedtime tales she told her own children.