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Mountain Trilogy #1
Song of the Mountain
Mud and mire shall birth a tree,
A sprout shall grow of ancient seed.
The five unite to break the one,
The curse of man shall be undone.
But brothers rise ere dragon’s bane.
The last shall smite the first again.
Orphaned at a young age, thirteen-year-old Wei Song has grown up listening to his grandfather recite legends of the distant past. But it is his own history Song seeks to uncover to guide him toward the future, particularly the events surrounding his parents’ deaths. But that is a secret closely guarded by his grandfather. Then Song discovers an heirloom that links him to an ancient prophecy. His destiny lies within the old tales he has scorned. Song must follow the path that killed his father.
A sprout shall grow of ancient seed.
The five unite to break the one,
The curse of man shall be undone.
But brothers rise ere dragon’s bane.
The last shall smite the first again.
Orphaned at a young age, thirteen-year-old Wei Song has grown up listening to his grandfather recite legends of the distant past. But it is his own history Song seeks to uncover to guide him toward the future, particularly the events surrounding his parents’ deaths. But that is a secret closely guarded by his grandfather. Then Song discovers an heirloom that links him to an ancient prophecy. His destiny lies within the old tales he has scorned. Song must follow the path that killed his father.
182 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 17, 2011
125 people are currently reading
652 people want to read
About the author
Michelle Isenhoff
57 books91 followersMICHELLE ISENHOFF writes for women, teens, and tweens. Her work has been reader-nominated for a Cybils Award, the Great Michigan Read, and the Maine Student Book Award. She's also placed as a semi-finalist in the Kindle Book Review Book Awards, a finalist in the Wishing Shelf Book Awards, and earned multiple Readers' Favorite 5 Star seals of approval. A former teacher and longtime homeschooler, Michelle has written extensively in the children's genre and been lauded by the education community for the literary quality of her work. More recently, she has enjoyed writing historical romance for older teens and women. Currently, she is relishing the creative freedom of branching out into adult speculative fiction.
**Visit her blog at www.michelleisenhoff.com.
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**Visit her blog at www.michelleisenhoff.com.
**Sign up for her new release newsletter at http://bit.ly/1bHFqaw.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
December 25, 2016
A wonderfully descriptive and vibrant story. Reading this felt like I'd found a piece of my childhood that I'd forgotten about. To explain, this book gave me the feeling of "I've read this before, long ago," but I know I haven't. So it felt like finding an old friend, only it was a new one. Kind of like the feeling of coming home but you've arrived at a place that emulates home in every manner rather than it being your actual home.
There's not that many characters as this is a story that has a lot to do with personal growth. It was simple in its use of a bare cast and a "normal" setting and I think that really helped to accent the amazing talent of Isenhoff.
Her descriptions were just WOW. So vivid and real. Though there is an unusual amount of comparisons(especially using like/as)--enough where I did notice there was a lot by chapter 2--they're so creative and the story is so engaging, that it didn't detract in anyway for me. It's more just something I noticed(and can't help mentioning).
The characters were amazingly indepth and well-developed. I felt connected to them(especially Song and Karina) and loved the introspective nature of both.
A tale of forgiveness, looking beyond the outside, and learning that enemies don't care if you hate them, but the hatred can negatively effect you.
There's not that many characters as this is a story that has a lot to do with personal growth. It was simple in its use of a bare cast and a "normal" setting and I think that really helped to accent the amazing talent of Isenhoff.
Her descriptions were just WOW. So vivid and real. Though there is an unusual amount of comparisons(especially using like/as)--enough where I did notice there was a lot by chapter 2--they're so creative and the story is so engaging, that it didn't detract in anyway for me. It's more just something I noticed(and can't help mentioning).
The characters were amazingly indepth and well-developed. I felt connected to them(especially Song and Karina) and loved the introspective nature of both.
A tale of forgiveness, looking beyond the outside, and learning that enemies don't care if you hate them, but the hatred can negatively effect you.
May 22, 2019
I quite enjoyed this story! Full review to come.
January 23, 2013
Song Wei's name means 'Great One' but Song doesn't feel great at all. He feels like an outcast who will never truly know who he is. But when a force of darkness threatens the village and the people he cares for, he finds himself immersed in what he thought was only a story that his grandfather liked to tell. He will come to find that it is his story after all.
I really enjoyed this short novel. Just a few pages in and I felt like a child, snug in bed, being told a magnificent tale by the greatest of storytellers. It is beautifully written and at times made me feel like I do when I am listening to my favorite songs, wrapped in a blanket of beauty and wonder. There was much wisdom in the characters and I think this is a great story for kids because they could learn many important lessons from it. I definently would not limit my recommendations to just children, though. I think everyone could enjoy it equally.
I really enjoyed this short novel. Just a few pages in and I felt like a child, snug in bed, being told a magnificent tale by the greatest of storytellers. It is beautifully written and at times made me feel like I do when I am listening to my favorite songs, wrapped in a blanket of beauty and wonder. There was much wisdom in the characters and I think this is a great story for kids because they could learn many important lessons from it. I definently would not limit my recommendations to just children, though. I think everyone could enjoy it equally.
June 21, 2025
An enjoyable Asian inspired Middle Grade/YA fantasy...
I found this book when searching for clean Asian inspired fantasy books. Because it is free at the time, it was easy to be convinced to try it. As such, I opened it up without any expectations.
It started right off with a compassionate main character, Song, who struggles with finding out who he is and where he belongs. He is being raised by his grandfather, a mysterious man who gives him cryptic answers to his questions about his background. So, right off the bat, this book fits many stereotypes of a YA novel with dead parents and eventually (should've seen this coming) the chosen one trope. Despite these typical tropes, I enjoyed the character and seeing him mature. I also enjoyed the worldbuilding and even hints at a possible Creator, with an Asian bent that made the book fascinating. Eventually, the book comes to end with an act of heroism from an unusual place. Honestly, the whole book reminded me of my youth, so it was like reading something nostalgic. There's no real romance, more like crushes and friendship. There is some violence, but it's not descriptive. I would honestly be comfortable recommending this book to anyone between 12+. A great Asian inspired fantasy for the young at heart.
I found this book when searching for clean Asian inspired fantasy books. Because it is free at the time, it was easy to be convinced to try it. As such, I opened it up without any expectations.
It started right off with a compassionate main character, Song, who struggles with finding out who he is and where he belongs. He is being raised by his grandfather, a mysterious man who gives him cryptic answers to his questions about his background. So, right off the bat, this book fits many stereotypes of a YA novel with dead parents and eventually (should've seen this coming) the chosen one trope. Despite these typical tropes, I enjoyed the character and seeing him mature. I also enjoyed the worldbuilding and even hints at a possible Creator, with an Asian bent that made the book fascinating. Eventually, the book comes to end with an act of heroism from an unusual place. Honestly, the whole book reminded me of my youth, so it was like reading something nostalgic. There's no real romance, more like crushes and friendship. There is some violence, but it's not descriptive. I would honestly be comfortable recommending this book to anyone between 12+. A great Asian inspired fantasy for the young at heart.
March 9, 2018
Overall I enjoyed this read. It had a folk-tale quality to it. The beginning was a little slow but the second half of the book was pretty immersive. I feel it's aimed at the MG age group.
January 9, 2015
“Song of the Mountain” was published in 2012 and was written by Michelle Isenhoff (http://michelleisenhoff.com/my-books/). This is the first of “The Mointain” trilogy. Ms. Isenhoff has published more than a dozen books.
I obtained a galley of this novel for review through https://www.netgalley.com. I would categorize this novel as ‘PG13’ as there is a little Violence. The novel is set in a land with oriental culture. The primary character is 13 year old Song Wei.
Song lives with his grandfather Li Min. Li lives almost as a hermit, but is called upon by the nearby village for medication. Living apart from the village, Song is treated as an outcast. A dragon returns and that involves Song in a prophecy as to how the dragon can be dealt with.
This Young Adult Fantasy is a relatively short story, only taking about 3 hours to read. I would say it is more of a novella than a novel. It also reads more like an oriental fable than a novel to me. I found it difficult to be engaged by the characters for some reason. I give this novel a 3 out of 5.
Further book reviews I have written can be accessed at http://johnpurvis.wordpress.com/blog/.
I obtained a galley of this novel for review through https://www.netgalley.com. I would categorize this novel as ‘PG13’ as there is a little Violence. The novel is set in a land with oriental culture. The primary character is 13 year old Song Wei.
Song lives with his grandfather Li Min. Li lives almost as a hermit, but is called upon by the nearby village for medication. Living apart from the village, Song is treated as an outcast. A dragon returns and that involves Song in a prophecy as to how the dragon can be dealt with.
This Young Adult Fantasy is a relatively short story, only taking about 3 hours to read. I would say it is more of a novella than a novel. It also reads more like an oriental fable than a novel to me. I found it difficult to be engaged by the characters for some reason. I give this novel a 3 out of 5.
Further book reviews I have written can be accessed at http://johnpurvis.wordpress.com/blog/.
July 5, 2014
I have on my wall several reproductions of ancient Chinese scrolls that I bought years ago in Taiwan, and this story prompted me to look at them anew. It's set in what is now China but in a mythical era before recorded history.
There is an old sage living in a hut on a mountainside. There is a legend about the Fall of Man and a cryptic prophesy. There is a dragon (but a malevolent one, which is a departure from typical Chinese legends). Most importantly there is an orphaned boy who longs for acceptance, and who finds that his destiny involves something far more significant than just fitting in.
The telling is in keeping with the genre, by which I mean it's simple and direct. That called for an adjustment, as I came to this after reading several novels that were heavy on introspection and analysis, but I think the tone is just right for the subject. The telling certainly kept my interest all the way through.
There is an old sage living in a hut on a mountainside. There is a legend about the Fall of Man and a cryptic prophesy. There is a dragon (but a malevolent one, which is a departure from typical Chinese legends). Most importantly there is an orphaned boy who longs for acceptance, and who finds that his destiny involves something far more significant than just fitting in.
The telling is in keeping with the genre, by which I mean it's simple and direct. That called for an adjustment, as I came to this after reading several novels that were heavy on introspection and analysis, but I think the tone is just right for the subject. The telling certainly kept my interest all the way through.
September 6, 2016
As I read this book, I could imagine reading it aloud to my grandchildren, knowing how they would love the excitement and adventure of sorcerers, dragons, and a dragon-slaying 12-year old. But would they realize that they were also hearing an allegory of the story of Adam and Eve and of Cain and Abel? Or learning lessons about respect for one's elders, the meaning of true friendship, and about betrayal and forgiveness? Would they notice the flowing language and attempt to mimic it in their own writing? Perhaps, if they read enough books of this quality.
I wish there were more books like this one for middle-graders. Fortunately, this is book one of a trilogy, so I know there will be two more. I downloaded the Kindle version, but now I plan to buy the paperback for my oldest granddaughter.
I wish there were more books like this one for middle-graders. Fortunately, this is book one of a trilogy, so I know there will be two more. I downloaded the Kindle version, but now I plan to buy the paperback for my oldest granddaughter.
June 3, 2018
I did read the whole thing through, but I was not impressed with it. It read basically like a clone of every other YA fantasy book.
The first three chapters are slow. Infodumps galore. You can basically skip them and start reading at Chapter Four. The beginning of the book is also riddled with typos, and each one broke my immersion in the story while I tried to figure out what the sentence even meant.
The author failed to get me to connect with any of the characters or care about the story. Song was a boring, unempathetic protagonist, and his grandfather was basically a ripoff of Gandalf and Dumbledore: the old mentor character who has important information that he'll give to the protagonist when it's time and not before. Some details in terms of worldbuilding didn't make any sense. Nori's character arc made no sense, and Ju-Long came out of nowhere and was not at all intimidating. Keeto reminded me way too much of Hans from Frozen: the guy who, at the end of the book. comes out of nowhere to be like "I'm the bad guy!" but then gets beat way too easily and the consumer never buys the double-agent act to begin with. And through the entire book, there were just way too many infodumps. For such a short book, there was very little actual substance in terms of plot or intriguing character actions. I did not enjoy this one and would not actively recommend it to others.
The first three chapters are slow. Infodumps galore. You can basically skip them and start reading at Chapter Four. The beginning of the book is also riddled with typos, and each one broke my immersion in the story while I tried to figure out what the sentence even meant.
The author failed to get me to connect with any of the characters or care about the story. Song was a boring, unempathetic protagonist, and his grandfather was basically a ripoff of Gandalf and Dumbledore: the old mentor character who has important information that he'll give to the protagonist when it's time and not before. Some details in terms of worldbuilding didn't make any sense. Nori's character arc made no sense, and Ju-Long came out of nowhere and was not at all intimidating. Keeto reminded me way too much of Hans from Frozen: the guy who, at the end of the book. comes out of nowhere to be like "I'm the bad guy!" but then gets beat way too easily and the consumer never buys the double-agent act to begin with. And through the entire book, there were just way too many infodumps. For such a short book, there was very little actual substance in terms of plot or intriguing character actions. I did not enjoy this one and would not actively recommend it to others.
January 13, 2022
Song is a young man who lives with his grandfather. But all is not as it appears and his grandfather hasn't told Song everything he needs to know about who he (actually, both of them) and what direction his life is going to go in.
The story is written with an oriental bent to it. I wasn't sure that I got some of the biblical tie-ins, like the tree at the beginning of time and the tree that Song was to find that would help to defeat the dragon. Tree of Life? It was as if the tree would save them rather than the Son of Mutan (the author's name for God). There was also the need for the five in saving them from the dragon, and those are the elements: earth, water, air, fire, (and I can't remember the fifth thing.) The ending was a bit abrupt as well.
I liked this clean read.
The story is written with an oriental bent to it. I wasn't sure that I got some of the biblical tie-ins, like the tree at the beginning of time and the tree that Song was to find that would help to defeat the dragon. Tree of Life? It was as if the tree would save them rather than the Son of Mutan (the author's name for God). There was also the need for the five in saving them from the dragon, and those are the elements: earth, water, air, fire, (and I can't remember the fifth thing.) The ending was a bit abrupt as well.
I liked this clean read.
September 3, 2018
Another great book from Michelle Isenhoff. I have read most of the Recompense series that are also very good. This story follows Song Wei, a young man, in a remote mountain village of oriental style. Song is part of an old prophecy that although it involves a dragon is not over done so the story flows very well. He lives in a small hut with his grandfather as they deal with life with the nearby village, local lord, friends, enemies as the prophecy looms closer. The character development is good, drawing you into their lives, troubles and excitement. Another great book that was hard to put down. Definitely looking forward to reading the next one.
January 29, 2023
A toto bolo zase sklamanie. Napisane akoby studentom na SS, ziadne emocie. Skoda.
Hlavnym hrdinom je Wei Song, ktory zije s dedkom na hore, mimo ostatnych. Dedko ho nudi rozpravanim pribehov, ktorych ma Wei uz plne zuby. Jeho meno znamena Velky, ale Wei si tak vobec nepripada. Ma problemy, kedze ho sikanuju chlapci z dediny, hoci nerozumie, preco je to tak.
Jedneho dna sa objavi drak, ktoreho Wei zazenie pomocou tajomnej skrinky, o ktorej mu dedo nechce nic povedat. Konecne vsak nastal cas, ked sa dozvie, ze je sucastou velkej predpovede, ze on je ten, ktory ma draka znicit.
Sice kratke, ani nie 200 stran, ale mne sa to zdalo nekonecne a urcite nebudem citat dalsie diely.
Hlavnym hrdinom je Wei Song, ktory zije s dedkom na hore, mimo ostatnych. Dedko ho nudi rozpravanim pribehov, ktorych ma Wei uz plne zuby. Jeho meno znamena Velky, ale Wei si tak vobec nepripada. Ma problemy, kedze ho sikanuju chlapci z dediny, hoci nerozumie, preco je to tak.
Jedneho dna sa objavi drak, ktoreho Wei zazenie pomocou tajomnej skrinky, o ktorej mu dedo nechce nic povedat. Konecne vsak nastal cas, ked sa dozvie, ze je sucastou velkej predpovede, ze on je ten, ktory ma draka znicit.
Sice kratke, ani nie 200 stran, ale mne sa to zdalo nekonecne a urcite nebudem citat dalsie diely.
September 4, 2017
Song aches to know about his family. His parents have died, and he lives with his grandfather, who refuses to speak of them. But without knowing his past, how can Song know his future? Then a dragon shows up, and Song realizes there is more to both his past and his future than he ever expected . . .
I really liked this. The story is set in an alternate historical China (with bits of fantasy, such as a fire-breathing dragon). The setting builds in a natural way, and the description never stalls describing things that would be unfamiliar to a Western audience. Instead it's all presented as Song experiences it.
Song himself is interesting in a couple of ways. His focus on wanting to know his own history is understandable, but it's also unique because he feels he doesn't have a future without knowing his family history. It's less a personal grief and more of a cultural expectation. That said, he's also the only one making a big deal of it. The villagers may or may not care about their own ancestors, but Song isn't close enough to any of them for a direct comparison.
I'm not sure what to make of Nori's ending. I don't quite believe what Song believes actually happened, and I don't have much sympathy for her in any case. At least Song comes to his senses about her sooner rather than later.
Overall this is a somewhat short read but a good one. I rate this book Recommended.
See my reviews and more at https://offtheshelfreviews.wordpress....
I really liked this. The story is set in an alternate historical China (with bits of fantasy, such as a fire-breathing dragon). The setting builds in a natural way, and the description never stalls describing things that would be unfamiliar to a Western audience. Instead it's all presented as Song experiences it.
Song himself is interesting in a couple of ways. His focus on wanting to know his own history is understandable, but it's also unique because he feels he doesn't have a future without knowing his family history. It's less a personal grief and more of a cultural expectation. That said, he's also the only one making a big deal of it. The villagers may or may not care about their own ancestors, but Song isn't close enough to any of them for a direct comparison.
I'm not sure what to make of Nori's ending. I don't quite believe what Song believes actually happened, and I don't have much sympathy for her in any case. At least Song comes to his senses about her sooner rather than later.
Overall this is a somewhat short read but a good one. I rate this book Recommended.
See my reviews and more at https://offtheshelfreviews.wordpress....
August 26, 2017
Very much enjoyed this book! It is a fun middle grade/young adult fantasy woven into a China-inspired setting with biblically-based mythology! The plot, setting, and mythological aspects were very well conceived. I loved the themes and the way characters surprised you. I would love for my kids or nieces to read this some day and talk about the analogies in it. I recommend to any lovers of C.S. Lewis/Lois Lowry.
June 13, 2018
Good short story
The background for this tale is woven throughout the legends told by Grandfather to his grandson. But, not everything can be easily interpreted and overlaid onto our normal activities and make sense. Watch out for the dragon!
The background for this tale is woven throughout the legends told by Grandfather to his grandson. But, not everything can be easily interpreted and overlaid onto our normal activities and make sense. Watch out for the dragon!
September 9, 2018
What a wonderful legend woven into a story. This was a great story with a lot of morals built into it. I loved learning the legend come to life as Song learned of it himself. Beauty vs. true love and that there is no room for hate.
April 1, 2020
An extremely well written book. The reader can really relate to the main character and also the primary supporting characters. It is a young man growing to learn who he is and the role he must step into as grave danger comes to his community.
August 10, 2025
As a middle grade book, this is good. I feel too fast paced at times, and Song changes emotions too quickly, IMO. The story is based i lore of two brothers, and Song’s grandfather randomly tells him he is the chosen one to save their people from a dragon.
June 23, 2019
Ever try to live up to the impossible name you parents saddled you with. Song’s struggle is epic.
December 21, 2024
Awesome YA fantasy
Was hooked from the beginning. Wonderful characters leading to a wonderful story. Can't wait to get the next one in the series
Was hooked from the beginning. Wonderful characters leading to a wonderful story. Can't wait to get the next one in the series
May 28, 2013
My thoughts: With her beautiful use of words, Michelle Isenhoff has created a story whose text flows with imagery and words that incite the mind to create a picture of a world in a time long ago when the world was young, man lived harsh lives, evil abounded, and dragons lurked.
In Song of the Mountain one might think this is a story of a mountain and the song-story about it. Not so. This is a story set in a long ago oriental world. Song is a boy growing up in primitive surroundings and being raised by his grandfather, who is not who he seems to be. They live on the mountain and in the valley is a village. Nearby is the land the "Lord" who is over them all.
But there is evil and that is in the form of a dragon who seeks to destroy.
This is a short middle-reader book that even adults can enjoy. I do not typically read fantasy which this is somewhat akin to. But I thoroughly enjoyed this little book. The story of "beginnings" and of conquest over evil is timeless. I recommend this and other books by Michelle Isenhoff heartily for classroom use as well as personal reading enjoyment.
GIVEAWAY: Michelle Isenhoff will give away a digital copy of her Worlds of Magic collection, which includes Song of the Mountain, The Quill Pen, and her brand new one, Taylor Davis and the Flame of Findul. Winner can choose it in mobi, epub, or pdf format. Begins May 29 & ENDS June 12 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT. Open world wide.
DISCLOSURE: A complimentary paperback copy of Song of the Mountain was provided by Michelle Isenhoff to facilitate my honest review. Opinions expressed are solely my own.
In Song of the Mountain one might think this is a story of a mountain and the song-story about it. Not so. This is a story set in a long ago oriental world. Song is a boy growing up in primitive surroundings and being raised by his grandfather, who is not who he seems to be. They live on the mountain and in the valley is a village. Nearby is the land the "Lord" who is over them all.
But there is evil and that is in the form of a dragon who seeks to destroy.
This is a short middle-reader book that even adults can enjoy. I do not typically read fantasy which this is somewhat akin to. But I thoroughly enjoyed this little book. The story of "beginnings" and of conquest over evil is timeless. I recommend this and other books by Michelle Isenhoff heartily for classroom use as well as personal reading enjoyment.
GIVEAWAY: Michelle Isenhoff will give away a digital copy of her Worlds of Magic collection, which includes Song of the Mountain, The Quill Pen, and her brand new one, Taylor Davis and the Flame of Findul. Winner can choose it in mobi, epub, or pdf format. Begins May 29 & ENDS June 12 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT. Open world wide.
DISCLOSURE: A complimentary paperback copy of Song of the Mountain was provided by Michelle Isenhoff to facilitate my honest review. Opinions expressed are solely my own.
January 11, 2014
I couldn't stop reading this story. It captured my imagination and I had to know what would happen. This story could easily be read as a family and then discuss the different personalities in the book, their choices, and why we make the choices we do. I especially appreciated the examples given of how Song asked for forgiveness after hurting Karina and how he came to forgive Keeto. This story is set in a small village that has a leader who lives up the mountain in a nice palace. Song and his grandfather live away from the village in a small hut up on the mountain too. Song's parents were killed and he was raised by his grandfather and yet his grandfather will not tell him of his parents. Song is bullied by Keeto and does not go to the village often except to run errands for his grandfather. Karina- Keeto's sister is his best friend. The grandfather has secrets that he does not reveal to Song, but he tells stories over and over again. These stories tell of 3 brothers and how they were supposed to take care of a tree which is protecting the earth from a terrible dragon. In the story, the dragon is unleashed and is going to destroy the earth, but grandfather and Song have to find the strength to defeat the dragon. In the end, we find out who Song really is and what part he will play in the problem. I found the story fascinating and wonderful in the lessons he is learning and in the ways he grows throughout the story. A good one to read and share.
January 26, 2014
Song of the Mountain is a bit of a hidden gem, a story of a boy named Wei Song who has grown up listening to stories of dragons from his grandfather. Song is a bit of an outcast, constantly picked on by the village boys and has only befriended Karina, a girl who could be beautifully if not for her scarred face. When his grandfather sets out to stop a certain evil from coming about, he finds himself aiding the beautiful daughter of the village leader. She seems set on seeking out danger though, but Song cannot seem to find his ground with her.
I have to say, Song of the Mountain is beautifully written and one of the few indie pubbed books that I have found myself falling in love with. I loved the involvement with dragons and magic and the hidden past of Song that lends itself to the story. I loved that Karina is such a kind and wonderful soul, who helps Song even after he has seemed to fall in love with another based on beauty alone.
The story itself had a depth to it with lots of magic involved and who can resist a book with a dragon? I loved the Asian setting and the variety of characters, each with their own strengths and weaknesses.
Final Verdict: Song of the Mountain is a book for fantasy lovers that want a quick, yet well written novel.
I have to say, Song of the Mountain is beautifully written and one of the few indie pubbed books that I have found myself falling in love with. I loved the involvement with dragons and magic and the hidden past of Song that lends itself to the story. I loved that Karina is such a kind and wonderful soul, who helps Song even after he has seemed to fall in love with another based on beauty alone.
The story itself had a depth to it with lots of magic involved and who can resist a book with a dragon? I loved the Asian setting and the variety of characters, each with their own strengths and weaknesses.
Final Verdict: Song of the Mountain is a book for fantasy lovers that want a quick, yet well written novel.
January 29, 2014
Song Wei lives with his grandfather on the mountain, but he is an outcast in the village. Karina is the only one who treats him kindly, but her brother is the leader of the bullies. It wouldn’t be so hard if Grandfather weren’t always telling him to forgive the boys who beat him and call him names.
One day things start to change. Song meets the daughter of the local lord, a strange shadow makes Grandfather send Song running ahead, a special box is left unlocked. However hard it was when he was the brunt of teasing and bullying, it is harder now as Song starts to learn who he is and who he must become.
I liked this story. It has the clean simple lines of Chinese paintings. There is a story that we think we know, but it is show to us with a new face. The simplicity makes this a good story for younger people, though it isn’t limited to the younger audience. Song himself is a complex boy with battling impulses and all the doubts you’d expect of him. The people around him gradually because less three dimensional as they move away from the centre of the story, yet because of the mythic feel of the book this feels right.
I recommend Song of the Mountain for anyone who likes a good story. It is easy to read, but no less powerful for that.
One day things start to change. Song meets the daughter of the local lord, a strange shadow makes Grandfather send Song running ahead, a special box is left unlocked. However hard it was when he was the brunt of teasing and bullying, it is harder now as Song starts to learn who he is and who he must become.
I liked this story. It has the clean simple lines of Chinese paintings. There is a story that we think we know, but it is show to us with a new face. The simplicity makes this a good story for younger people, though it isn’t limited to the younger audience. Song himself is a complex boy with battling impulses and all the doubts you’d expect of him. The people around him gradually because less three dimensional as they move away from the centre of the story, yet because of the mythic feel of the book this feels right.
I recommend Song of the Mountain for anyone who likes a good story. It is easy to read, but no less powerful for that.
November 24, 2014
ABSOLUTE MUST READ!!!! FANTASTIC WRITING!!!! BRILLIANT STORY!!!!
Song of the Morning is set in a mythical land that evokes ancient China. Song Wei is embarrassed by what he considers an ill-fitting name, which means “Great One.” He is bullied by the other boys, forced by his Grandfather to listen to ancient tales, and prevented from learning what he really wants to know. Why he is an orphan, and what befell the community twelve years ago when he was born.
His only friend, Karina is a gentle girl, who is also an outcast due facial scars. The mystery of his past is revealed to be an ancient terror that threatens not only the people he loves, but all of humanity. Only by living up to his name can Song save everyone.
This story was spot on in every way. The writing is flawless. The characters are richly detailed and endearing. The pace is perfect. The plot is engaging. This is a book that shows the true value of an independent author. This book has all the quality of a book published in the mainstream and more. A great middle-grade read for those who like fantasy, but I enjoyed it as much as anything I’ve read in a long time.
Song of the Morning is set in a mythical land that evokes ancient China. Song Wei is embarrassed by what he considers an ill-fitting name, which means “Great One.” He is bullied by the other boys, forced by his Grandfather to listen to ancient tales, and prevented from learning what he really wants to know. Why he is an orphan, and what befell the community twelve years ago when he was born.
His only friend, Karina is a gentle girl, who is also an outcast due facial scars. The mystery of his past is revealed to be an ancient terror that threatens not only the people he loves, but all of humanity. Only by living up to his name can Song save everyone.
This story was spot on in every way. The writing is flawless. The characters are richly detailed and endearing. The pace is perfect. The plot is engaging. This is a book that shows the true value of an independent author. This book has all the quality of a book published in the mainstream and more. A great middle-grade read for those who like fantasy, but I enjoyed it as much as anything I’ve read in a long time.
August 9, 2016
This book was a departure for me. I tried it on a whim since it was on a free promotion. I don't typically read this genre and, at first, I had just a little trouble relating to it. But I found the speed to be part the beauty of the mountain world the author has created. The book starts slow as we meet the confused Song, who has doubts about his identity and his role in the adventure that is taking place around him. The rhythm picks up quickly and holds a strong beat all the way through until the finale. The last four chapters are so intense that it is impossible to put down.
I enjoyed the mountain world and especially the dialogue of the people, which is unique enough to hold the reader's interest, but not at all hard to follow. My favorite character is the grandfather and I simply loved the legends and wisdom he relays to Song. This would be a great book for a family to read together - (if your child is old enough for The Hobbit).
What a great surprise and I can't wait to see what Isenhoff has in store for Song in the sequel!
I enjoyed the mountain world and especially the dialogue of the people, which is unique enough to hold the reader's interest, but not at all hard to follow. My favorite character is the grandfather and I simply loved the legends and wisdom he relays to Song. This would be a great book for a family to read together - (if your child is old enough for The Hobbit).
What a great surprise and I can't wait to see what Isenhoff has in store for Song in the sequel!
February 3, 2014
Song of the Mountain is a story filled with adventure, friendship and lessons to be learned. Song, the main character lives with his grandfather up on the mountain. He's picked on, disliked, and has no idea who he truly is. His one friend in the world is the sister of his greatest enemy and to top it all off danger has returned to the mountain he calls home.
This book was a great read. It has a lot to say about the value of friendship, the strength found inside someone, and the virtue of forgiveness. The characters all have their problems to overcome and each plays their own distinct role within the greater story.
The book is written to match the setting and time giving it an authentic feel and left me wondering if maybe the author had pulled the story from old lore. This style of writing did take a little getting used to, but was a very interesting read. Once I got into it I couldn't put it down.
This book was a great read. It has a lot to say about the value of friendship, the strength found inside someone, and the virtue of forgiveness. The characters all have their problems to overcome and each plays their own distinct role within the greater story.
The book is written to match the setting and time giving it an authentic feel and left me wondering if maybe the author had pulled the story from old lore. This style of writing did take a little getting used to, but was a very interesting read. Once I got into it I couldn't put it down.
September 1, 2015
(I received a copy from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review)
This is quite a short story set in ancient China. The main character is Song Wei whose name means The Great One. He lives in a remote hut with his grandfather Li Min.
Song Wei is not allowed to pass through the nearby village and each time he gets near, he's taunted and bullied by a group of boys. He's good friends with Karina whose brother is the leader of that group of boys.
Li Min told Song Wei about the ancient tale of the mountain and the dragon that dwells there. The dragon has awaken after 12 years and have started terrorizing the villagers.
There's a prophecy of The One who will defeat the dragon and it turns out Song Wei is The One, even though he doesn't know how to do so or think he has the necessary skills and tools.
Overall this book was written like a fable and is not to my taste. I feel this book is more suitable for older children rather than young adults.
This is quite a short story set in ancient China. The main character is Song Wei whose name means The Great One. He lives in a remote hut with his grandfather Li Min.
Song Wei is not allowed to pass through the nearby village and each time he gets near, he's taunted and bullied by a group of boys. He's good friends with Karina whose brother is the leader of that group of boys.
Li Min told Song Wei about the ancient tale of the mountain and the dragon that dwells there. The dragon has awaken after 12 years and have started terrorizing the villagers.
There's a prophecy of The One who will defeat the dragon and it turns out Song Wei is The One, even though he doesn't know how to do so or think he has the necessary skills and tools.
Overall this book was written like a fable and is not to my taste. I feel this book is more suitable for older children rather than young adults.
January 20, 2013
I received this book free from the author. Song was average in most ways no one in the village he grew up in liked him except for Karina, constantly bullied and beat up he has only his Grandfather and friend Karina to comfort him and keep him from being consumed by hatred. I liked this book a lot it had a good story with a deep background and likable characters who were flawed but usually had reasons for their flaws. I loved the elements and the unity of elements needed to win at the end. Although I was hoping for some more magic to show up and the transporting was not really explained how they were capable of it when the magic was explained by the elements. Overall a very good book with likable characters and a good background. Hoping for a second one that brings a bit more magic into play and maybe a bit more world building instead of being centered in one general area
January 15, 2014
Wow! A simple tale, well told!
This book caught me off guard. I was expecting a good book, but was immediately captured by the unassuming manner in which the story is told. Told in the style of an ancient chinese fable, we have the story of a young peasant boy being raised by his grandfather who passes the time by telling stories of times gone by with an eternal wisdom built into them. I was pulled into the story by the excellent characterization of the Song, his grandfather Li-Min and Karina. The story of a young boy finding he has a destiny far greater than he could ever imagine and the power of the storytelling pulled me into practically devouring this book. I could not stop reading and finished it in just a couple of days. I recommend this highly and I am looking forward with great anticipation to the next books in the series.
This book caught me off guard. I was expecting a good book, but was immediately captured by the unassuming manner in which the story is told. Told in the style of an ancient chinese fable, we have the story of a young peasant boy being raised by his grandfather who passes the time by telling stories of times gone by with an eternal wisdom built into them. I was pulled into the story by the excellent characterization of the Song, his grandfather Li-Min and Karina. The story of a young boy finding he has a destiny far greater than he could ever imagine and the power of the storytelling pulled me into practically devouring this book. I could not stop reading and finished it in just a couple of days. I recommend this highly and I am looking forward with great anticipation to the next books in the series.
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