The Book of Three by Lloyd Alexander

The tale of Taran, assistant pig keeper, has been entertaining young readers for generations. Set in the mythical land of Prydain (which bears a more than passing resemblance to Wales), Lloyd Alexander's book draws together the elements of the hero's journey from unformed boy to courageous young man. Taran grumbles with frustration at home in the hamlet Caer Dallben; he yearns to go into battle like his hero, Prince Gwydion. Before the story is over, he has met his hero and fought the evil leader who threatens the peace of Prydain: the Horned King. What brings the tale of Taran to life is Alexander's skillful use of humor, and the way he personalizes the mythology he has so clearly studied. Taran isn't a stick figure; in fact, the author makes a point of mocking him just at the moments when he's acting the most highhanded and heroic. When he and the young girl Eilonwy flee the castle of the wicked queen Achren, Taran emotes, "'Spiral Castle has brought me only grief; I have no wish to see it again.' 'What has it brought the rest of us?' Eilonway asked. 'You make it sound as though we were just sitting around having a splendid time while you moan and take on.'" By the end, Alexander has spun a rousing hero's tale and created a compelling coming-of-age story. Readers will sigh with relief when they realize The Book of Three is only the first of the chronicles of Prydain. Paperback: 190 pages Rating: 5 Stars Publisher: Henry Holt and Co. BYR Paperbacks (May 16, 2006) Review by Bill Tillman

Michael O'Brien's Autobiography

Michael O' Brien's new autobiography will be released on the 1st of September. It is a modern day tale of David and Goliath; of one man's quest to clear his name taking his fight to the highest courts in the land and creating legal history.

In his own words Michael O'Brien tells his moving story of how he was imprisoned for a crime he didn't commit – the Cardiff Newsagent Murder during the 1980s. The book reveals the trauma and heartache he suffered whilst in prison and how he learnt to cope. During the eleven years he not only lost his freedom and youth but also members of his family including the tragic death of his daughter and step-father.

Death of Justice uncovers the shocking story of how police incompetence and scapegoating result in three innocent men being convicted and the catalogue of mistreatment during their time in prison. It is also details how Michael O'Brien taught himself law and successfully took two Home Secretaries Michael Howard and Jack Straw to court, how he won his appeal and eventual release and the largest payout in legal history.

Michael O'Brien lives in Cardiff with his partner and family and continues to support people who face similar legal battles. An exclusive programme of Wales this Week on Michael O Brien’s story is due to be broadcast on Monday night the 1^st of September at 8pm.

Death of Justice (£9.95), Michael O’Brien is available here

Michael O’Brien will be signing copies of his new autobiography The Death of Justice in Borders bookshop Cardiff at 12pm on Monday the 1^st of September

If you would like to request a copy of Y Lolfa’s new catalogue e-mail llyfrau@ylolfa.com.