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What a treat to revisit this favorite book of mine. I have each of my three daughters reading this summer 1 book that I've liked. My 11yr old is reading Seventh Son. Much to her surprise, she's enjoying it. We've been talking after she completes each chapter -- and I started reading it again myself. I tried to stay at her spot but eventually just couldn't help myself and so I finished the book.

Seventh Son is so good on so many levels. It's a fantasy book set in an alternate version of American history. The history parts just at some spice and flavor, it's not a serious "alternate history" book. The "magic" isn't like Harry Potter with witches, wizards, wands and spells. It's folk magic with hexes, come hithers, wardings and such. The characters are what make the book -- there are just so many wonderful characters.

There's young Alivn Jr. -- the seventh son of a seventh son. He's smart and precocious and it's hilarious how his questions really upset Reverend Thrower the minister at the church. The Reverend is a Christian and a "scientist" and doesn't believe in or accept magic even though lots and lots of magic goes on all around him. Given Card's own deeply religious nature, it's interesting that the Christian minister represents the bigoted side of Christianity.

There's "ma and pa" and their relationship is heartwarming and funny. Pa loves all his children and Alvin Jr. in particular, but he has an inner demon that has him trying to kill his own son from time to time. Ma is determined to raise her kids as good Christians even though she and the whole family practice the folk magic. An interesting source of great fun in the book.

Faith is the oldest daughter married to Armor of God Weaver. Armor of God is a devout Christian who fully believes in the "knacks" but thinks they are sinful. His wife has foresworn the use of magic but she manages to practice all sorts of magic without her husband knowing.

I could go on -- there are many more lovable characters. You'll find your heart warmed, you'll laugh out loud in parts and be near tears in others.

Lee