The Mirror of Fire and Dreaming

I found this book on a clearance table at the bookstore and bought it as a gift for an 11-year-old bookworm. As soon as I opened the book and read a few pages, however, I couldn't bear to part with the book. I've since let the 11-year-old borrow the book with the clear understanding she will give it back when finished. If that's not a recommendation, I'm not sure what is. :) From a kid's perspective, the story is fast-paced, interesting, packed with intrigue, and just plain fun. Someone not familiar with Hindi words might stumble a bit at first (I had to look up "punkah" before I understood that Anand was helping to power a ceiling fan), but the story is still understandable even not knowing the words. From a parent's perspective, this story is one that reinforces many good lessons such as honesty, responsibility, empathy, and compassion. I would feel very comfortable with my children reading this book. There are a few slightly scary scenes during confrontations, but they are handled well and should be appropriate for all but the most sensitive children. From an adult's perspective, the book is truly delicious. The imagery and language behind each step of the story's development lend itself incredibly well to drawing larger conclusions about life than just Anand's story. The best fantasy taps into the deep part of us, and this book did so for me. I found myself mulling over the story long after I'd finished the last page. The *only* bad part about this book is that all of the descriptions of palek paneer, chapatis, curry, and so on made me hungry! :) Thoroughly enjoyable, child-appropriate, and well worth the time and money.

This is one of the best books I have read. I loved the Indian culture connection.I loved it when they went back in time.It is an amazing book.

After picking up her first book in the series, I knew I had to find out if I could find the sequel. I really love her style of writing, spare yet there are no loose ends in the story line. The story is tight and smooth, the characters are richly imagined-although the main character Anand is the focus of most of the character development. This is a happy fantasy series about magic and adventure in historical India that you won't want to miss and will draw you in regardless of your age, with positive morals and themes that are great for children. If you like books like Harry Potter, you'll love this.

This book, the sequel to The Conch Bearer, mixes the sense of excitement that every book needs, a wonderful use of magic realism (which is illustrated by the fact that Anand, the main character, travels from the present day India to the ancient India, who'se realistic features are marred by the fact that Anand is a magician) , an overhanging gloom and really, really, really great writing. This was one of my favorite books and I would definately recommend it to anyone!!!

With rich, sumptuous detail and admirable clarity Chitra Divakaruni draws us into the Conch Bearer Anand's journey for a second time. The difficulties faced and lessons learned by the Brotherhood of the Conch in this newest book combine to create an enchanting story. Both The Conch Bearer and The Mirror of Fire and Dreaming provide vibrant descriptions, especially concerning culture and food. These books are delightful adventures wholesome enough for any age group to enjoy. Happy Reading