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Isis #1
The Keeper of the Isis Light
In this addition to the Isis series from Phoenix Award-winning author Monica Hughes, settlers from Earth are finally coming to join Olwen on her planet, but will they accept her after discovering what she’s become?
It was her tenth birthday on Isis. Though Olwen Pendennis had never been to Earth, she knew it would be her sixteenth birthday on the foreign planet. She was born on Isis and since her parents’ death, Olwen had lived there alone, manning the Isis light—a “light-house” in space designed to aid ships and bring settlers from Earth.
Now, on the day of her tenth year, the settlers are coming at last. Olwen is ready to welcome them, but are they ready for her? She was once human like them, but the harsh climate of the alien planet has changed her, transforming her into something else that the settler could never be prepared for….
It was her tenth birthday on Isis. Though Olwen Pendennis had never been to Earth, she knew it would be her sixteenth birthday on the foreign planet. She was born on Isis and since her parents’ death, Olwen had lived there alone, manning the Isis light—a “light-house” in space designed to aid ships and bring settlers from Earth.
Now, on the day of her tenth year, the settlers are coming at last. Olwen is ready to welcome them, but are they ready for her? She was once human like them, but the harsh climate of the alien planet has changed her, transforming her into something else that the settler could never be prepared for….
240 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1980
17 people are currently reading
1201 people want to read
About the author
Monica Hughes
579 books117 followersMonica Hughes was a very popular writer for young people, and has won numerous prizes. Her books have been published in the United States, Poland, Spain, Japan, France, Scandinavia, England, and Germany. She has twice received the Canada Council Prize for Children's Literature, and was runner-up for the Guardian Award.
She is the author of Keeper of the Isis Light, an American Library Association Best Book for Young Adults, which also received a Certificate of Honor from the International Board on Books for Young People; Hunter in the Dark, also an ALA Best Book for Young Adults; and Sandwriter, among many other titles.
She is the author of Keeper of the Isis Light, an American Library Association Best Book for Young Adults, which also received a Certificate of Honor from the International Board on Books for Young People; Hunter in the Dark, also an ALA Best Book for Young Adults; and Sandwriter, among many other titles.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 126 reviews
August 9, 2009
This was my favorite book as a kid. It held up well: the perfectly timed build-up of the plot, the vivid and beautiful descriptions of a high desert world, and the believability of the main character were all as riveting as they seemed when I was ten. Though the book deals with Serious Issues, as young adult books do, it doesn't offer any simple solutions, and the resolution, though quietly satisfying, isn't quite the happy ending you'd expect. It offers a moral lesson I enjoyed as much this time as the first: sometimes people suck, and it's best to just go live in a cave.
October 13, 2010
After her parents died in a freak storm, Olwen has grown up alone on the alien world of Isis. She spends her days roaming the planet she considers her own. The only person she speaks to is the Guardian of Isis. But at last, colonists are coming to Isis.
This book feels very dated. The style of writing, the gender norms, the tech, all felt very golden-age scifi. Additionally, the OMG PLOT TWISTs are excrutiatingly obvious. Once they're out of the way, the story improves. Overall, I did quite like this story. Although Olwen is almost excessively feminine in some ways, she is also incredibly physically courageous (fans of Cashore's Graceling will appreciate her) and self-sufficient. And most of all, I love the basic message of this book: that being yourself and free is worth more than romance or even companionship.
This book feels very dated. The style of writing, the gender norms, the tech, all felt very golden-age scifi. Additionally, the OMG PLOT TWISTs are excrutiatingly obvious. Once they're out of the way, the story improves. Overall, I did quite like this story. Although Olwen is almost excessively feminine in some ways, she is also incredibly physically courageous (fans of Cashore's Graceling will appreciate her) and self-sufficient. And most of all, I love the basic message of this book: that being yourself and free is worth more than romance or even companionship.
August 28, 2022
[First book I read & reviewed in 2019]
A short but memorable read. Pretty good if you like older, somewhat predictable juvenile/YA sci-fi tales. First published c. 1980, THE KEEPER OF THE ISIS LIGHT is the first book in a trilogy, but it stands alone (pay heed, modern 'cliffhanger' authors!).
First line: It was a day like any other day on Isis, and yet, when it was over, nothing would ever be the same again.
Note: As at least one other GR reviewer has noted, this is one of those books where whoever approved the back cover blurb (and GR book description) should be tarred & feathered; it gives too much away.
TRUTH IN COVER ART? 15% / low (but it's oh so pretty):
Adults might roll their eyes a few times while reading, but I enjoyed it. I can recommend it to age 12 to 17-ish readers, and some adults, without hesitation. I liked the two main characters, as well as the descriptions of the planet Isis -- almost a character in its own right. There's not tons of science here, just a good story.
It's one of those rarer books that readers who don't usually like sci-fi might enjoy. It centers around a 16-year old girl whose" perfect" world (which ain't boring ol' Terra) suddenly changes.
FAMILY SAFE? Very, unless you count some sci-fi violence (nothing gory). Some of the themes here () could make this a good book for group or family discussion. The moral lesson is a good one, even if it's pounded in repetitively; here it's relevant to the story/drama.
YA VERDICT: 4+ stars (mostly plusgood). Overall it holds up well, and is quite memorable.
Adult VERDICT: Your mileage will vary (probably 2 to 3+ stars).
This book won a year 2000 Phoenix award, and strangely (?) the letters in the main character's name (Olwen Pendennis) can be rearranged to be "Penned Lines Won."
Would I read Book #2 ? Yes.
Tween/teen readers might also like:
Castaway Planet by Eric Flint / Ryk Spoor
Heart of Iron by Ashley Poston
For even younger sci-fi readers, consider: The Green Book by Jill Paton Walsh
A short but memorable read. Pretty good if you like older, somewhat predictable juvenile/YA sci-fi tales. First published c. 1980, THE KEEPER OF THE ISIS LIGHT is the first book in a trilogy, but it stands alone (pay heed, modern 'cliffhanger' authors!).
First line: It was a day like any other day on Isis, and yet, when it was over, nothing would ever be the same again.
Note: As at least one other GR reviewer has noted, this is one of those books where whoever approved the back cover blurb (and GR book description) should be tarred & feathered; it gives too much away.
TRUTH IN COVER ART? 15% / low (but it's oh so pretty):
Adults might roll their eyes a few times while reading, but I enjoyed it. I can recommend it to age 12 to 17-ish readers, and some adults, without hesitation. I liked the two main characters, as well as the descriptions of the planet Isis -- almost a character in its own right. There's not tons of science here, just a good story.
It's one of those rarer books that readers who don't usually like sci-fi might enjoy. It centers around a 16-year old girl whose" perfect" world (which ain't boring ol' Terra) suddenly changes.
FAMILY SAFE? Very, unless you count some sci-fi violence (nothing gory). Some of the themes here () could make this a good book for group or family discussion. The moral lesson is a good one, even if it's pounded in repetitively; here it's relevant to the story/drama.
YA VERDICT: 4+ stars (mostly plusgood). Overall it holds up well, and is quite memorable.
Adult VERDICT: Your mileage will vary (probably 2 to 3+ stars).
This book won a year 2000 Phoenix award, and strangely (?) the letters in the main character's name (Olwen Pendennis) can be rearranged to be "Penned Lines Won."
Would I read Book #2 ? Yes.
Tween/teen readers might also like:
Castaway Planet by Eric Flint / Ryk Spoor
Heart of Iron by Ashley Poston
For even younger sci-fi readers, consider: The Green Book by Jill Paton Walsh
April 12, 2017
(Goldfield not permitted. The excellent cover that was on the edition I borrowed is not avl. here; too bad.)
Very good SF, especially given that it's directed at young teens & 'tweens, a decidedly under-served group. I kinda sorta saw where things were going, but it still surprised me in many ways. Thought-provoking and charming. I will continue to struggle (!) to find more by the author.
Very good SF, especially given that it's directed at young teens & 'tweens, a decidedly under-served group. I kinda sorta saw where things were going, but it still surprised me in many ways. Thought-provoking and charming. I will continue to struggle (!) to find more by the author.
March 17, 2025
4.5 stars! The Keeper of the Isis Light is an impressive YA sci-fi book from 1980. It is about 16-year-old Olwen who lives alone on the planet Isis with her Guardian until new settlers from Earth make a colony there.
The book starts in a fairly regular YA fashion and has some simple mysteries to figure out that keep the reader interested. But later on, there is a bold turn in plot and tone that I found very refreshing.
One downside though, is that the book doesn’t have much of a conclusive ending. But fortunately it is only the first book of a trilogy, so I’m looking forward to reading the next installments!
One upside of the book that I found especially enjoyable was the author’s beautiful descriptions of the planet Isis. She gives the reader enough details to visualize the world, but not too much that it is overwhelming.
The book starts in a fairly regular YA fashion and has some simple mysteries to figure out that keep the reader interested. But later on, there is a bold turn in plot and tone that I found very refreshing.
One downside though, is that the book doesn’t have much of a conclusive ending. But fortunately it is only the first book of a trilogy, so I’m looking forward to reading the next installments!
One upside of the book that I found especially enjoyable was the author’s beautiful descriptions of the planet Isis. She gives the reader enough details to visualize the world, but not too much that it is overwhelming.
December 20, 2024
I remember really liking Monica Hughes' books when I was a kid. But then and now I wonder if I like the stories and ideas more than the writing? But the ideas are brilliant! Her YA scifi had the most original and amazing scifi ideas I've read even compared to a lot of adult scifi!
Looking at the cover of some of the other editions of this book they portray Olwen the main character from the front... what a mistake! This edition did it perfectly. Coz you have an impression and expectation and the cover is not false when you find out the reveal.
Looking at the cover of some of the other editions of this book they portray Olwen the main character from the front... what a mistake! This edition did it perfectly. Coz you have an impression and expectation and the cover is not false when you find out the reveal.
December 13, 2017
I read this long before I joined Goodreads, along with a LOT of other science fiction. Someday, I will add more of the ones that I know I read. I won't be able to write full reviews though, as I have only vague recollections of most of them. I know that I liked this one, though.
February 21, 2025
The Keeper of the Isis Light is a favorite read of the year for me! It’s like if Octavia Butler and Ursula K. Le Guin combined forces and wrote a book aimed at a YA audience. It also made me think of Star Trek: The Next Generation, as it has a similar tone and themes that it tackles. In a nutshell, it’s a slow moving, (mostly) cozy scifi with depth!
16 year old Olwen and her helper, Guardian, are the caretakers of the planet Isis, and its sole inhabitants. They send signals to humans in outer space, reporting on the planet’s conditions. One day, they receive a message that a group of humans are coming to settle on the planet. It will be the first time that Olwen has interacted with other humans, and she’s eager to make contact. But there’s something that she is blissfully unaware of…
One of my favorite aspects of The Keeper of the Isis Light is the worldbuilding. It’s much better worldbuilding than you would normally encounter in a YA book. The descriptions of the planet are immersive and beautiful! Monica Hughes made it feel like a real place you could visit. And I loved Olwen and Guardian’s house, right down to the little details. Also, I totally want that musical dress that Olwen gets for her birthday!
The themes of the book are strong as well. Hughes tackles prejudice and takes the story in a direction I didn’t expect it to go. She also made Olwen a strong role model for young readers, and I loved her confidence and how determined and strong she is as a character.
The ending is a bit abrupt, so it definitely makes me want to read the next one to see how the series continues to unfold. I’m so glad that it’s a trilogy so I can spend more time in this world!
16 year old Olwen and her helper, Guardian, are the caretakers of the planet Isis, and its sole inhabitants. They send signals to humans in outer space, reporting on the planet’s conditions. One day, they receive a message that a group of humans are coming to settle on the planet. It will be the first time that Olwen has interacted with other humans, and she’s eager to make contact. But there’s something that she is blissfully unaware of…
One of my favorite aspects of The Keeper of the Isis Light is the worldbuilding. It’s much better worldbuilding than you would normally encounter in a YA book. The descriptions of the planet are immersive and beautiful! Monica Hughes made it feel like a real place you could visit. And I loved Olwen and Guardian’s house, right down to the little details. Also, I totally want that musical dress that Olwen gets for her birthday!
The themes of the book are strong as well. Hughes tackles prejudice and takes the story in a direction I didn’t expect it to go. She also made Olwen a strong role model for young readers, and I loved her confidence and how determined and strong she is as a character.
The ending is a bit abrupt, so it definitely makes me want to read the next one to see how the series continues to unfold. I’m so glad that it’s a trilogy so I can spend more time in this world!
December 12, 2014
Olwen Pendennis p 41 16 has lived her whole life alone on the planet Isis with Guardian after a radiation storm killed her parents Gareth and Liz p 203. To her more than a robot "a thousand times friend .. much much wiser" p 150, he could not protect the baby human body from such a harsh climate. When "eighty settlers" p 25 come from Earth, she no longer needs to operate the Lighthouse, "only the shipping signal .. practically automatic" p 210, her job changes to "advisor" p 139. Mark 17 p 90 and her care deeply for each other, yet Guardian "never illogical" p 89 insists she wear a face mask and suit. When Mark sees beneath, her world changes.
Mark suffers "a blow to the head causes loss of memory". With Guardian, she sends a photo for after "he's read my letter" p 167, wait for a reply. One little boy, Jordan likes the "funny lady" p 193, sees "Halloween .. She's fun"beauty. When he is lost before a radiation storm, Olwen rescues the "black face" p 193 lad.
I think the ending should have been sooner. She shapes everyone's future according to her imagination. But none of us can know what will happen next, even a single moment later. "Her hair .. a rich torrent of coppery red .. the most desirable woman he would ever see in his whole life" p 94. Her claim "I must be free" p 209 sounds pretty, but is unjustified balderdash. Also too many dreams / nightmares. Yawn.
The beginning is meant to draws us inside oh-so-normal Olwen, "strange aching emptiness" p 30 is loneliness. From the first, to Guardian she is "perfect in all particulars" p 73. Almost ordinary is teenage courtship, empty orphan and secure newcomer Mark. Her protective jumpsuit seems wrong before her small physical aberrations are revealed. Jordan "child with the negroid features" p 145 is one more lesson "young enough not to be prejudiced" p 199 too many. I like exciting scenes, pull rating higher, almost enough.
Typo?
p 121 "a computer terminal and consules" is more likely consoles
Mark suffers "a blow to the head causes loss of memory". With Guardian, she sends a photo for after "he's read my letter" p 167, wait for a reply. One little boy, Jordan likes the "funny lady" p 193, sees "Halloween .. She's fun"beauty. When he is lost before a radiation storm, Olwen rescues the "black face" p 193 lad.
I think the ending should have been sooner. She shapes everyone's future according to her imagination. But none of us can know what will happen next, even a single moment later. "Her hair .. a rich torrent of coppery red .. the most desirable woman he would ever see in his whole life" p 94. Her claim "I must be free" p 209 sounds pretty, but is unjustified balderdash. Also too many dreams / nightmares. Yawn.
The beginning is meant to draws us inside oh-so-normal Olwen, "strange aching emptiness" p 30 is loneliness. From the first, to Guardian she is "perfect in all particulars" p 73. Almost ordinary is teenage courtship, empty orphan and secure newcomer Mark. Her protective jumpsuit seems wrong before her small physical aberrations are revealed. Jordan "child with the negroid features" p 145 is one more lesson "young enough not to be prejudiced" p 199 too many. I like exciting scenes, pull rating higher, almost enough.
Typo?
p 121 "a computer terminal and consules" is more likely consoles
January 1, 2021
I read this book way back in the 1980s, as it was one of the few SF novels on the shelves of my secondary school library. I was a little trepidatious of re-reading it, as there is no guarantee that something you enjoyed as a kid will retain its appeal when you are an adult. Happily, I still thoroughly enjoyed it: it gives me the same sort of feeling of space exploration on alien worlds that I get from early Star Trek: TNG or The Forbidden Planet, although without any of the sinister undertones of the latter.
Whilst the story is all about character, prejudice and the power of self image, what sticks most in my mind is the evocation of Isis as a world: the mesa, the mountains the valleys and the rivers. Hughes writing is not flowery or ornate, but it really makes me feel the geography and flora and fauna of an alien planet far more than most of the (many) SF novels I've read over the years.
I'm really pleased to have revisited this book. It stands up well as a coming-of-age teen fiction story, suitable for anyone from 10 years old or so. There is the (very) occasional word choice that betrays the fact that it was written more than forty years ago, but in context it is not a significant detraction.
Whilst the story is all about character, prejudice and the power of self image, what sticks most in my mind is the evocation of Isis as a world: the mesa, the mountains the valleys and the rivers. Hughes writing is not flowery or ornate, but it really makes me feel the geography and flora and fauna of an alien planet far more than most of the (many) SF novels I've read over the years.
I'm really pleased to have revisited this book. It stands up well as a coming-of-age teen fiction story, suitable for anyone from 10 years old or so. There is the (very) occasional word choice that betrays the fact that it was written more than forty years ago, but in context it is not a significant detraction.
October 31, 2021
A deeply moving tale centering on the wrongness of prejudice and the truth that we should be judged solely on the content of our character. Sadly this continues to be relevant today.
In the words of one of the characters: "We have a long way to go and a lot to learn and unlearn."
I'm not exactly sure when I first read this book - it was around 1989 - and it really stuck with me. I remember very clearly the beautiful descriptions of the landscape and the central character's love for it. I remembered the insanity and injustice of people who care deeply for each other yet reject others based on an irrelevant thing such as a person's skin or appearance I found that incomprehensible at the time. It stuck with me.
Now, many years later I'm all grown up and I came across a copy of this book with the same cover as all those years ago. I was a little nervous opening it up - what would it be like? It was the same except I now have more of an understanding of the issues and an appreciation of the beautiful writing style. Interestingly enough, the only character in the book who is not prejudiced is a nine year old child who finds it incomprehensible, just as I did around that age.
Prejudice is learnt - not inherent.
In the words of one of the characters: "We have a long way to go and a lot to learn and unlearn."
I'm not exactly sure when I first read this book - it was around 1989 - and it really stuck with me. I remember very clearly the beautiful descriptions of the landscape and the central character's love for it. I remembered the insanity and injustice of people who care deeply for each other yet reject others based on an irrelevant thing such as a person's skin or appearance I found that incomprehensible at the time. It stuck with me.
Now, many years later I'm all grown up and I came across a copy of this book with the same cover as all those years ago. I was a little nervous opening it up - what would it be like? It was the same except I now have more of an understanding of the issues and an appreciation of the beautiful writing style. Interestingly enough, the only character in the book who is not prejudiced is a nine year old child who finds it incomprehensible, just as I did around that age.
Prejudice is learnt - not inherent.
July 19, 2021
I don't think this book was made for me. The romantic elements felt very true for being 16, but it just made me remember how unintentionally obnoxious 16 year olds can be. There were some decent twists but I just couldn't relate to any of the characters.
July 16, 2025
Olwen is a teenager who has lived her entire life on the planet Isis, with only herself and her beloved Guardian and her pet. Their peaceful existence is changed by the arrival of colonists from an overpopulated Earth.
The settlers rely on Olwen and Guardian for information on the land, especially as the planet is hostile for humans and they are not able to experience large portions of it without protective suits and oxygen. However, despite needing Olwen, these new people are often prejudiced and unkind toward her and Guardian.
This did not go the way I was expecting
I loved Olwen and Guardian.
Mark should have been eaten by a hairy dragon, though.
The settlers rely on Olwen and Guardian for information on the land, especially as the planet is hostile for humans and they are not able to experience large portions of it without protective suits and oxygen. However, despite needing Olwen, these new people are often prejudiced and unkind toward her and Guardian.
This did not go the way I was expecting
I loved Olwen and Guardian.
Mark should have been eaten by a hairy dragon, though.
August 31, 2021
[Some mild spoilers]
The Keeper of the Isis Light is the orphan of the keepers who perished in a storm when she was a toddler, leaving her the only inhabitant of the whole planet, raised by an artificial "Guardian" (who reminded me of C3P0 from Star Wars, though no bungler; perhaps more like Asimov's Bicentennial Man). She has a great life alone there with Guardian providing everything she needs and more. It get tense when settlers arrive from Earth.
Good reading but after a while the main character showed characteristics unaccounted for considering her isolation, and some of the science is lacking (typical of much scifi). The book was written for young adults and as an older adult I still enjoyed reading it.
The Keeper of the Isis Light is the orphan of the keepers who perished in a storm when she was a toddler, leaving her the only inhabitant of the whole planet, raised by an artificial "Guardian" (who reminded me of C3P0 from Star Wars, though no bungler; perhaps more like Asimov's Bicentennial Man). She has a great life alone there with Guardian providing everything she needs and more. It get tense when settlers arrive from Earth.
Good reading but after a while the main character showed characteristics unaccounted for considering her isolation, and some of the science is lacking (typical of much scifi). The book was written for young adults and as an older adult I still enjoyed reading it.
November 29, 2025
Interesting plot and characters. The author makes the planet Isis a believable place--a harsh, almost Mars-like planet, except with animals and plants. The two major radiation storms really unsettle the new settlers from Earth. Olwen's actions are completely in line with her character and Mark is a real jerk. But this story does date itself with mention of "tapes"--so old school!
January 9, 2023
Easy read, things moved quickly and had a good plot. If I was 12 it would have been 5/5!
August 27, 2023
I don't know what to make of this book but I had a good time.
December 20, 2021
It might be children's sci-fi but it still manages to have underlying topics of more depth then many adult books. It presents ideas of that doing what's right for someone can have different answers, none of them more right that another, and each with their own negative consequences; of the impact of one's appearance; of what makes up love; and what makes us human.
Of course like much sci-fi of its time, its 'futuristic' technology is dated and more reflects the technology of its day, with talk of putting tapes in computers, and asking specifically for a colour photo rather than just assuming it's in colour!
Of course like much sci-fi of its time, its 'futuristic' technology is dated and more reflects the technology of its day, with talk of putting tapes in computers, and asking specifically for a colour photo rather than just assuming it's in colour!
March 31, 2018
Fandt den antikvarisk : denne bog har jeg lånt utallige gange som barn, og var vild med den. Overraskende nok, holder den ret godt. Dialogen er kluntet, men landskabsbeskrivelserne er levende, og historien interessant.
January 12, 2017
Although there were a few holes supporting the premise of the story, the idea is compelling.
I had fun noticing the moments of 'retro sci-fi', as has happened in other books I've read from the 80's. It's the future ... but it's also slightly reminiscent of the 80's/90's, and I think that is a point of interest in it's own way. A young audience would probably appreciate a new edition, but it's a fun read regardless. I'm planning to check out the other two in the series.
In particular, I think it's an interesting direction from which to ponder "what does it mean to be human?" What elements of ourselves are key to our identity, and which elements are open to change? Olwen is quite self-accepting (and whether or not you find this believable), it makes for some interesting moral thought. Are the actions of Guardian proved right by Olwen's belief in their efficacy and beauty? If she had regretted the choices of Guardian, would that make him out to be morally at fault, or do we exonerate him for having best (to his understanding) followed her dying mother's wishes? Speaking of, is Guardian a moral (sentient) being? If not, he can't be held responsible, and it also raises the question of who made the decision to leave a toddler in the care and keeping of a non-sentient being (to be raised feral - with a computer robot as guide).
I had fun noticing the moments of 'retro sci-fi', as has happened in other books I've read from the 80's. It's the future ... but it's also slightly reminiscent of the 80's/90's, and I think that is a point of interest in it's own way. A young audience would probably appreciate a new edition, but it's a fun read regardless. I'm planning to check out the other two in the series.
In particular, I think it's an interesting direction from which to ponder "what does it mean to be human?" What elements of ourselves are key to our identity, and which elements are open to change? Olwen is quite self-accepting (and whether or not you find this believable), it makes for some interesting moral thought. Are the actions of Guardian proved right by Olwen's belief in their efficacy and beauty? If she had regretted the choices of Guardian, would that make him out to be morally at fault, or do we exonerate him for having best (to his understanding) followed her dying mother's wishes? Speaking of, is Guardian a moral (sentient) being? If not, he can't be held responsible, and it also raises the question of who made the decision to leave a toddler in the care and keeping of a non-sentient being (to be raised feral - with a computer robot as guide).
March 24, 2013
I first read this in 7th grade and was truly fascinated by the story of the girl Olwen living alone on a planet with her robot keeper. Everything is turned upside down when she is 16 and colonists arrive from Earth. The story covers themes of loneliness, prejudice and what makes someone human. I found myself fiercely loyal to Olwen while not truly knowing her at all (or did I?)
Rereading The Keeper of the Isis Light (20 years later) I was similarly intrigued by the story. This book has a few unforgettable reveals, so I enjoyed revisiting each moment with an informed eye. The story largely stood the test of time for me. However, I was surprised by the quick love Olwen and Mark develop for each other. The adult in me protested, "These kids don't know each other at all!" Yet I remember enough to recall that the 12 year old version of me didn't question their love when I read this book as a kid. Interesting I guess, though that may have more to do with my own self reflection than the actual book.
Bottom line, this is an original story that can be read in one sitting. This makes it accessible, though perhaps more pages could have elevated it to classic status.
Rereading The Keeper of the Isis Light (20 years later) I was similarly intrigued by the story. This book has a few unforgettable reveals, so I enjoyed revisiting each moment with an informed eye. The story largely stood the test of time for me. However, I was surprised by the quick love Olwen and Mark develop for each other. The adult in me protested, "These kids don't know each other at all!" Yet I remember enough to recall that the 12 year old version of me didn't question their love when I read this book as a kid. Interesting I guess, though that may have more to do with my own self reflection than the actual book.
Bottom line, this is an original story that can be read in one sitting. This makes it accessible, though perhaps more pages could have elevated it to classic status.
August 14, 2018
DO NOT READ THE BOOK SUMMARY ON THE DUST COVER! It essentially tells you the plot and the unsaid parts. That is, unless you do not want to read the very short 136 pages. I really enjoyed that Monica Hughes does not lay out every detail for you. That method is so very different than books written now, which seemingly feel the need to mention everything repeatedly, however unnecessary. Leave something to our imagination already! The main character, Olwen is likable, though naive. What I ended up loving the most was the planet, Isis. There was something about Olwen's description of it that made me love it as much as her.
Want to read
January 27, 2015It's always fairly jolting to me when I discover this rad new book from whatever various blog I'm reading and go to mark it as to-read, only to discover I already did at some point in the past. Case in point: this book.
June 27, 2013
I remember loving this book
March 14, 2020
Olwen Pendennis and her Guardian are the only inhabitants of a planet 6 parsecs from the overpopulated Earth. The planet is called Isis, and Olwen is the keeper of the Light (space-aged lighthouse of sorts) located in the upper reaches on the surface of the planet.
On the day of her 10th birthday (16th on Earth) a transmission is received by Guardian informing them that the first human settlers are en route in a ship called the Pegasus Two. This news spins Olwen’s world out of control and sends her down a path of self-discovery and acceptance of things she cannot control.
In my opinion, the first couple of chapters are a little slow, but once you hit the third chapter where Mark London, a teenager on the Pegasus Two, is introduced. I liked Mark in the beginning, I thought he was a wonderful addition to the story and would make an excellent friend for Olwen. Boy oh boy, was I ever quick to change my opinion.
To meet the settlers, Guardian has Olwen dress up in a specially made hazmat suit, he claims is designed to keep possible germs from infecting her. The suit is made of a light material, and the vented mask is an appealing, smooth-faced apparatus — for functionality and comfort, it seems.
Olwen’s offer to show the settlers her part of Isis, the upper mesa, is rejected by all except Mark, who is more than willing to explore the unknown. He has to wear a special suit to protect him from Ra (Isis’s sun), along with an oxygen tank because of Isis’s thin air.
The two become close, and as love begins to blossom, Olwen begins to question Guardian’s logic as to why she has to wear the suit. Maybe, just maybe, he is being overprotective. Mark brings her to see the colony’s doctor, who also questions Guardian’s logic and takes a sample of Olwen’s blood to test for her.
Olwen and Guardian later get into a dispute, which leads to Olwen telling him about her trip to the doctor. Guardian wastes no time in heading to the colony to confront the doctor. Mark overhears much of their argument but is dismissed by the doctor before Guardian explains as to why he has Olwen wear the suit.
Concerned for Olwen’s safety, Mark suits up and attempts to climb the mesa alone, in search of Olwen. He finds her at the top of the mesa, without her suit on, and when she turns to look at him he stumbles backwards and falls off the mesa, nearly getting himself killed.
The aftermath of the incident, along with a hunting accident that kills Olwen’s trusted pet, Hobbit, finally brings forth the truth of Olwen’s heritage and the reason she has to wear the suit.
Olwen is the daughter of the former Light Keepers, who died during a solar storm on Isis when she was only 4 earth years old. They left her in the care of Guardian, whom at this time I still wasn’t sure if he was human or robot. Guardian did his best to ensure her happiness and safety, which included changing her to suit Isis’s harsh environment.
He genetically thickened her skin to protect against Ra, widened her nose and deepened her ribcage to make it easier for her to breathe, protruded her brow and gave her second set of eyelids to add extra protection from Ra’s light, and enhanced her metabolism which gave her a bronze-green hue to her skin. As the Captian of the Pegasus Two observed, she looked almost reptilian.
This is where my hatred for Mark and many of the settlers come into play. They make it clear that if she weren’t human they would find her exotic and attractive, but because she was human she was disgusting to look at. It ultimately leads to Mark rejecting her and his feelings for her. Even though towards the end of the story he sort of recants, claiming he could get used to her appearance over time.
Other things in between, but in the end, no one except for a little boy named Jody is accepting of Olwen’s appearance. This leads to Olwen inevitable deserting the valley, taking Guardian with her, to live in another valley a few days journey away, so she can be at peace like she was before the Pegasus Two arrived. It is from here that she and Guardian can better warn the settlers of any oncoming solar storms before it reaches them.
This is a coming of age story, where are lessons are learned the hard way. I got so angry reading it, but I am very happy with how Olwen handled everything. She grew up through the story, and the fact that she never settled for Mark’s hesitant feelings, or the offers to take her back to earth to make her look more human-made me so happy for her.
Monica Hughes knew how to capture your heart, and paint a beautiful picture of an alien world that anyone would love to call home. I highly recommend this book, and I give it a 5/5.
On the day of her 10th birthday (16th on Earth) a transmission is received by Guardian informing them that the first human settlers are en route in a ship called the Pegasus Two. This news spins Olwen’s world out of control and sends her down a path of self-discovery and acceptance of things she cannot control.
In my opinion, the first couple of chapters are a little slow, but once you hit the third chapter where Mark London, a teenager on the Pegasus Two, is introduced. I liked Mark in the beginning, I thought he was a wonderful addition to the story and would make an excellent friend for Olwen. Boy oh boy, was I ever quick to change my opinion.
To meet the settlers, Guardian has Olwen dress up in a specially made hazmat suit, he claims is designed to keep possible germs from infecting her. The suit is made of a light material, and the vented mask is an appealing, smooth-faced apparatus — for functionality and comfort, it seems.
Olwen’s offer to show the settlers her part of Isis, the upper mesa, is rejected by all except Mark, who is more than willing to explore the unknown. He has to wear a special suit to protect him from Ra (Isis’s sun), along with an oxygen tank because of Isis’s thin air.
The two become close, and as love begins to blossom, Olwen begins to question Guardian’s logic as to why she has to wear the suit. Maybe, just maybe, he is being overprotective. Mark brings her to see the colony’s doctor, who also questions Guardian’s logic and takes a sample of Olwen’s blood to test for her.
Olwen and Guardian later get into a dispute, which leads to Olwen telling him about her trip to the doctor. Guardian wastes no time in heading to the colony to confront the doctor. Mark overhears much of their argument but is dismissed by the doctor before Guardian explains as to why he has Olwen wear the suit.
Concerned for Olwen’s safety, Mark suits up and attempts to climb the mesa alone, in search of Olwen. He finds her at the top of the mesa, without her suit on, and when she turns to look at him he stumbles backwards and falls off the mesa, nearly getting himself killed.
The aftermath of the incident, along with a hunting accident that kills Olwen’s trusted pet, Hobbit, finally brings forth the truth of Olwen’s heritage and the reason she has to wear the suit.
Olwen is the daughter of the former Light Keepers, who died during a solar storm on Isis when she was only 4 earth years old. They left her in the care of Guardian, whom at this time I still wasn’t sure if he was human or robot. Guardian did his best to ensure her happiness and safety, which included changing her to suit Isis’s harsh environment.
He genetically thickened her skin to protect against Ra, widened her nose and deepened her ribcage to make it easier for her to breathe, protruded her brow and gave her second set of eyelids to add extra protection from Ra’s light, and enhanced her metabolism which gave her a bronze-green hue to her skin. As the Captian of the Pegasus Two observed, she looked almost reptilian.
This is where my hatred for Mark and many of the settlers come into play. They make it clear that if she weren’t human they would find her exotic and attractive, but because she was human she was disgusting to look at. It ultimately leads to Mark rejecting her and his feelings for her. Even though towards the end of the story he sort of recants, claiming he could get used to her appearance over time.
Other things in between, but in the end, no one except for a little boy named Jody is accepting of Olwen’s appearance. This leads to Olwen inevitable deserting the valley, taking Guardian with her, to live in another valley a few days journey away, so she can be at peace like she was before the Pegasus Two arrived. It is from here that she and Guardian can better warn the settlers of any oncoming solar storms before it reaches them.
This is a coming of age story, where are lessons are learned the hard way. I got so angry reading it, but I am very happy with how Olwen handled everything. She grew up through the story, and the fact that she never settled for Mark’s hesitant feelings, or the offers to take her back to earth to make her look more human-made me so happy for her.
Monica Hughes knew how to capture your heart, and paint a beautiful picture of an alien world that anyone would love to call home. I highly recommend this book, and I give it a 5/5.
July 20, 2017
I didn’t think I’d like this book. I thought it was written for teenage boys, and I’d be bored to tears by the alien planet setting. I was wrong. This is a fantastic book. Truly fantastic.
A sixteen-year-old girl, Olwen, has lived on an alien planet all her life; her parents were sent from Earth to explore an inhabitable planet, since Earth has been abused and needs to be evacuated. Olwen has been free, happy, and alone. She’s had an entire planet to herself, besides the man appointed as her guardian after her parents’ death, and she’s loved every minute of it. One day. . .
A spaceship from Earth lands, with refugees who intend to make their home on her planet. Olwen’s solitude is disturbed for the first time. How will she and her fellow humans get along?
The Keeper of the Isis Light isn’t just for teenagers, even though the protagonist is a young girl. Anyone who remembers their childhood fondly in contrast to the hurts of adulthood will be moved by Olwen’s journey. Anyone who remembers the highs and lows of their first love will be affected by this book. Anyone who’s felt insecure about how they come across to others, anyone who’s felt complete when they’re alone and alone around others, anyone who’s been forced to cope in an unfair situation, will love this book. It’s moving, tragic, hopeful, nostalgic, surprising, and realistic. It’s just lovely.
Do me two favors: go out and read this book, and whatever you do, don’t read the synopsis blurb on the back of the book. There are major spoilers!
http://hottoastyrag.weebly.com/keeper...
A sixteen-year-old girl, Olwen, has lived on an alien planet all her life; her parents were sent from Earth to explore an inhabitable planet, since Earth has been abused and needs to be evacuated. Olwen has been free, happy, and alone. She’s had an entire planet to herself, besides the man appointed as her guardian after her parents’ death, and she’s loved every minute of it. One day. . .
A spaceship from Earth lands, with refugees who intend to make their home on her planet. Olwen’s solitude is disturbed for the first time. How will she and her fellow humans get along?
The Keeper of the Isis Light isn’t just for teenagers, even though the protagonist is a young girl. Anyone who remembers their childhood fondly in contrast to the hurts of adulthood will be moved by Olwen’s journey. Anyone who remembers the highs and lows of their first love will be affected by this book. Anyone who’s felt insecure about how they come across to others, anyone who’s felt complete when they’re alone and alone around others, anyone who’s been forced to cope in an unfair situation, will love this book. It’s moving, tragic, hopeful, nostalgic, surprising, and realistic. It’s just lovely.
Do me two favors: go out and read this book, and whatever you do, don’t read the synopsis blurb on the back of the book. There are major spoilers!
http://hottoastyrag.weebly.com/keeper...
July 15, 2019
Olwen lives alone with a computer companion on a planet called Isis. Her parents have passed away and she's the remaining guardian of "the Isis Light," which is like a beacon to draw possible settlers to the planet. She knows nothing of companionship or culture, but her whole life has built to the moment where human settlers would arrive. But what will she do upon encountering the humans and finding the companions she's been craving would no longer recognize her as one of them?
The way this story is handled makes it very readable and relatable--Olwen is a sympathetic character, with desires anyone can sympathize with despite that she's a girl on an alien world who was raised by an artificial intelligence. And you can understand her horror when the fairytale she's been dreaming of is shattered at the revelation that she's been physically modified for life on Isis, while the colonists have not--a huge barrier that prevents them from finding common ground. This is not only a tale of longing and companionship, but one of self-discovery and humanity.
The way this story is handled makes it very readable and relatable--Olwen is a sympathetic character, with desires anyone can sympathize with despite that she's a girl on an alien world who was raised by an artificial intelligence. And you can understand her horror when the fairytale she's been dreaming of is shattered at the revelation that she's been physically modified for life on Isis, while the colonists have not--a huge barrier that prevents them from finding common ground. This is not only a tale of longing and companionship, but one of self-discovery and humanity.
September 17, 2022
I found this book in a free little library and immediately got excited. The author's name caught my attention, and after some research, I realized that she was the author to one of my favourite books growing up : 'Castle Tourmandyne' (which I have yet to reread). So, naturally, I brought 'The Keeper of the Isis Light' home with me.
I was really surprised with this little book and found myself really enjoying the story. Some of the character's thoughts were a bit juvenile to read, of course (I mean, I am in my thirties after all), but it was still so relatable. If I had discovered this earlier in my life, I would have devoured it. This book also surprised me in many ways and I loved learning more about the world and the creatures (Hobbit) that inhabited it.
I will be keeping my eye out for the second and third book now. :)
I was really surprised with this little book and found myself really enjoying the story. Some of the character's thoughts were a bit juvenile to read, of course (I mean, I am in my thirties after all), but it was still so relatable. If I had discovered this earlier in my life, I would have devoured it. This book also surprised me in many ways and I loved learning more about the world and the creatures (Hobbit) that inhabited it.
I will be keeping my eye out for the second and third book now. :)
April 6, 2022
I love sci-fi films/TV so I don't know why I've read virtually no sci-fi books. It's a genre I'd like to explore and I've started with 'The Keeper of the Isis Light'. Loved it! It really captured my imagination especially the descriptions of Isis, such a beautiful, captivating, unspoilt planet. Pure escapism! I enjoyed the thought-provoking storyline too and Olwen is a great heroine. I'm glad it's the first in a trilogy so I can visit Isis again :)
March 23, 2024
Fluff YA from quite a while back (goodreads says 2000 but it looks like it was 80s or earlier in reality). A lot of plot points are as expected. I was pretty sure the dragon-dog was going to die and that there was something drastically different about Olwen’s appearance. Such a lie in the cover art.
I liked that there were no real ‘changing herself to fit in’ ‘solutions’. She owned her own excellent acclimations.
From the information about the sequels I will pass on those.
I liked that there were no real ‘changing herself to fit in’ ‘solutions’. She owned her own excellent acclimations.
From the information about the sequels I will pass on those.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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