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Nix, Garth - Sabriel (Abhorsen #1) - Start Date January 22, 2014 [January 2014 Young Adult BOM]
Lisarenee wrote: "You know with the wall, the waking dead, and the snow I keep thinking of A Game of Thrones and the phrase, "Winter is coming." Anyone else? Could this be the YA version of it?"The wall reminded me of the Wall from "Stardust." Mostly because the walls serve the same function in both stories; they separate a world of magic from a mundane world.
January 23Chapters iv-vii
7. Finding the Ancelstierran patrol dead does not bode well. Especially with their heads cut off! And then the Charter stone which was used to sacrifice a Charter Mage. Does this mean the person who captured Abhorsen brought back some greater dead who killed these men to use them as shadow hands?
It's definitely foreboding. I hope we find out what's going on soon.
8. I love how Sabriel is such a clear thinker. Able to use her necromancing skills and Charter magic and not get distracted from the task at hand. Do you agree?
I do like how she is capable and smart. And she's not overpowered, she has a lot of power, but needs experience to become skilled. It feels realistic
9. So Sabriel's guide is her mother! I was surprised at this, and also had a little giggle when it described the situation of when she first called her. I had assumed her mother would not return to the story, but it looks like she may be quite important?
I was surprised too, I thought her mother was gone for good. Although Sabriel mentions how she isn't sure whether the spirit is actually her mother, or magic she left behind to protect her.
10. First Thralk and then a Mordicant. I think Sabriel needs to get some allies for her journey! And what is the significance of the "Servants of Kerrigor"?
I feel like Kerrigor is the big bad, and everything else is going to be connected to that.
Mod
I realy like Sabriel too and was happy about her mother being reintroduced to the story :)
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@Yzabel
8. Good way to put it. I think she is a refreshing heroine too, but still believable as an 18 year old
9. lol, indeed!
10. Ah yes
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@kelly
1. Yes I tink it is one of those situations that will be exlained over time
3. possible!
5. ah yes, you may be right
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@Zonnah
8. oh I hadn't even considered that
9. agreed
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@Lisarenee
9. In chapter vi she refers to her as her guide that is "the glowing spirit" or "luminous person"
10. Hmmm...Not sure yet
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@jessica
8. good way to describe her
10. you're probably right
Mod
Chapters viii-xi
11. What do you think about Mogget? I wonder how he gets from place to place? Would you trust him?
12. Thoughts on the house and the servants (sendings) that have been created through the generations?
13. Will she find her father's body? Do you think she should bring him back if she does?
14. Belisaere was the Capital, there hasn't been a King or Queen in 200 years and no Regent for 20, and the Kingdom "sinks day by day into a darkness..."
I wonder why Abhorsen kept the truth about the Old Kingdom from Sabriel?
15. What did you think about the flood? Did she have to do it for the "overall good" in the fight against the dead or was it a selfish act to save herself?
16. Thoughts on the scenes in the Paperwing? Would you have loosened Mogget's collar?
Mirliz wrote: " It seems now that it would have been wiser of him to keep her informed about what's going on in her homecountry, to prepare her for the future. He can't have believed she would never have to return?"Your comment got my mind thinking. I wonder if he thought he was going to have everything fixed and taken care of before she would come back?
January 24 — Chapters viii-xi11. What do you think about Mogget? I wonder how he gets from place to place? Would you trust him?
I would trust him to an extent only, and try to keep in mind to double-check what he tells me. He has a sort of falsely innocent way of putting things, like when he oh so innocently whines about his collar, that is reminiscent of a "tempter-type" character. One small misstep, and he'd be on you, or something like that.
12. Thoughts on the house and the servants (sendings) that have been created through the generations?
Interesting, but at the same time somewhat frightening. What about the oldest sendings? Do they remain faithful and reliable forever, or do they run the risk of being corrupted at some point?
13. Will she find her father's body? Do you think she should bring him back if she does?
This would likely be an important turning point for her. As the new Abhorsen, she's meant to put the dead to rest. Finding her father's corpse, and being faced with the choice of abiding by her duties or selfishly bringing him back, would definitely be an important (if awful) test for Sabriel, a way for her to either grow to truly become the Abhorsen... or fall to the darkness and become a Necromancer like the others.
14. Belisaere was the Capital, there hasn't been a King or Queen in 200 years and no Regent for 20, and the Kingdom "sinks day by day into a darkness..."
I wonder why Abhorsen kept the truth about the Old Kingdom from Sabriel?
I wonder, too. There must've been reasons. Perhaps he meant to teach her once she'd be fully done with her studies, only he ran out of time and found himself in dire straits before he could do that?
15. What did you think about the flood? Did she have to do it for the "overall good" in the fight against the dead or was it a selfish act to save herself?
At this point, I think it was more an act of self-preservation. It doesn't seem like Sabriel has enough information yet to see the greater picture, save for a few pieces (the name Kerrigor, what she heard in Ancelstierre, looking for her father).
16. Thoughts on the scenes in the Paperwing? Would you have loosened Mogget's collar?
The Paperwing looked awesome. As for the collar, I probably would've done the same, since the only alternative was, well, crashing and dying. Since he reminded her of the ring, though, there must be something to it. After all, if he were to get free and trample her so soon in the story, it wouldn't be fun, now, would it?
OK sorry this will be out of order now a bit because i'm a couple days behind, but here's my response to the questions for the beginning through chapter 3:January 22
Chapters: Prologue-iii
1. I love a book with a map and a prologue and this one was full of mystery and magic! What did you think of the prologue? Do you like the writing style so far?
Yes, the prologue did pique my interest a bit. I was nervous it might be a bit of an awkward read before diving into the prologue.
2. So Abhorsen is a necromancer who generally only binds the dead or lays them back to rest. I like that concept, it is different to most other books. Thoughts?
Yes, I liked that concept too! I wasn't sure exactly what to make of it, but got the feeling that generally he's trying to do a good thing
3. Sabriel was saved from death by Abhorsen who, unsually, chose to bring someone back from the dead. Is it just because she is his daughter or is there possibly more to it?
I got the feeling that there was more to it, and that he almost hadn't fully realized she was his daughter until after he had brought her back
4. The mesenger for Sabriel had a sack containing Abhorsen's sword and bells. Does that mean he is dead (like really dead, not coming back dead!), or is he possibly holding on and hoping she can save him using these items?
It's unclear. I was wondering this as I read it...what does it mean, is he leaving her things like a will, or are these items meant to help her rescue him.I think she assumes the latter, but it may be the former
5. I liked the history Horyse gave about The Old Kingdom and how "corpses wouldn't stay buried". It seems like Abhorsen implementing the wind flutes has made a huge difference. I guess someone has captured him in order to have the dead start re-animating again?
At this point I started thinking perhaps this was the reason for his being taken into the realm of the dead or at least captured there... no way to know yet, but there is some forshadowing here i think
6. It sounds like a pretty hard trek to Cloven Crest. "Does the walker choose the path, or the path the walker"? How will this be relevant? Does it mean that Sabriel was somehow 'destined' for this journey?
it could mean that, or it could be some obscure text related to the path of life to death and back again. I think however it's part of that forshadowing that i mentioned...perhaps her path is laid out for her and has already chosen her before she already knows it. Her school mistress after all did see her on the path before Sabriel even knew she was going
Mod
11. Yes, he reminded me a little of the Cheshire Cat at times
13. I wonder what kind of state he would be in anyway?
14. seems od doesn't it? maybe he was waiting for the right time which never came
16. I think you are right she didn't have much choice
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@Zonnah
11. It is almost like he knows he needs to be controlled
16. Sometimes action scenes do that to me too if they go on a bit long
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@Yzabel
11. good point
12. I wonder
13. what a terrible choice to make
14. I think you are right
16. it would make it difficult to write a series... haha
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@Sean-michael - all good, you can read at your own pace and discuss when ready :)
2. yes, a "nice" necromancer
4. and how was he able to get them to her too? so many questions!
6. ah, true
Mod
Chapters xii-xv
17. Mogget's true form is pretty scary! Were you surprised at how aggressive he was? In his "cat" form he had asked her to trust him and remember the ring. Does that mean he is "good" (and wants to be) when bound?
18. Touchstone has been wood for 200 years! I wonder how he and Mogget know of eachother and what Touchstone did? Is there something about this that compelled Sabriel to bring him back?
19. I like Touchstone as a new companion for her journey and the humour their relationship brings to the story. Thoughts on him so far?
20. When pushing on the door to the Watchwood:
"I can see time," whispered Mogget, so softly that his words were lost
Is there even more to this free magic / cat than we know so far?
21. Newstowe's charter stone must be broken. Does that mean another Charter Mage has been sacrificed? Is there anyone left alive in the village?
--Note tomorrow (26th) is a catch-up day so no new questions will be posted--
January 23Chapters iv-vii
7. Finding the Ancelstierran patrol dead does not bode well. Especially with their heads cut off! And then the Charter stone which was used to sacrifice a Charter Mage. Does this mean the person who captured Abhorsen brought back some greater dead who killed these men to use them as shadow hands?
I suppose it could be more separate than that. Maybe the greater dead captured Abhorsen or there's a committee of bad guys :)
8. I love how Sabriel is such a clear thinker. Able to use her necromancing skills and Charter magic and not get distracted from the task at hand. Do you agree?
I imagine that when the alternative is death you don't last long if you're not able to concentrate.
9. So Sabriel's guide is her mother! I was surprised at this, and also had a little giggle when it described the situation of when she first called her. I had assumed her mother would not return to the story, but it looks like she may be quite important?
She wasn't sure it was actually her mother though. It might have just been the protective magic taking on her mother's form. I think in a lot of stories they have powerful magic between a mother and child that can take form in some cases. I wonder why her mother's still able to visit if it is her. I would have thought she'd be beyond the gates when she could get back.
10. First Thralk and then a Mordicant. I think Sabriel needs to get some allies for her journey! And what is the significance of the "Servants of Kerrigor"?
It seems like she has at least a few allies with the ghosts and other things helping her. I'm not sure if a ghost ally is better or worse than a normal ally.
January 23Chapters iv-vii
7. Finding the Ancelstierran patrol dead does not bode well. Especially with their heads cut off! And then the Charter stone which was used to sacrifice a Charter Mage. Does this mean the person who captured Abhorsen brought back some greater dead who killed these men to use them as shadow hands?
That is all very possible. I think the reality of how bad the situation is, is becoming glaringly apparent.
8. I love how Sabriel is such a clear thinker. Able to use her necromancing skills and Charter magic and not get distracted from the task at hand. Do you agree?
It helps keep all the magic clear. She has been trained well.
9. So Sabriel's guide is her mother! I was surprised at this, and also had a little giggle when it described the situation of when she first called her. I had assumed her mother would not return to the story, but it looks like she may be quite important?
I think that is really cool. I am eager to learn more about Death and how it affects people. Having the nine gates and then somethings not making it all the way, but being dead. It is very engaging.
10. First Thralk and then a Mordicant. I think Sabriel needs to get some allies for her journey! And what is the significance of the "Servants of Kerrigor"?
I would imagine that all of this is happening because Kerrigor wants to be free. Also, he must have to have allies to make that happen. We will learn more soon. I can't wait to keep reading.
Jessica wrote: "Lisarenee wrote: "You know with the wall, the waking dead, and the snow I keep thinking of A Game of Thrones and the phrase, "Winter is coming." Anyone else? Could this be the YA versi..."I can see that.
Answers to questions from January 24Chapters viii-xi
11. What do you think about Mogget? I wonder how he gets from place to place? Would you trust him?
Since her father did, I guess I would too. She has no one else to guide her. If the collar gets removed, however, than no.
12. Thoughts on the house and the servants (sendings) that have been created through the generations?
I think they're both neat but a little creepy.
13. Will she find her father's body? Do you think she should bring him back if she does?
From what Mogget said, it doesn't sound very likely her father is alive.
14. Belisaere was the Capital, there hasn't been a King or Queen in 200 years and no Regent for 20, and the Kingdom "sinks day by day into a darkness..."
I wonder why Abhorsen kept the truth about the Old Kingdom from Sabriel?
It sounded like he thought he'd have more time to train her. For some reason he felt it was important she be trained a little differently than he had.
15. What did you think about the flood? Did she have to do it for the "overall good" in the fight against the dead or was it a selfish act to save herself?
My first though is that it was a bit extreme, but maybe we'll learn more.
16. Thoughts on the scenes in the Paperwing? Would you have loosened Mogget's collar?
The Paperwing is interesting, but you'd have to really believe in magic to get into that thing and believe you'll come out okay. There's no way I'd loosen Mogget's collar. Sabriel seems very naive.
January 24Chapters viii-xi
11. What do you think about Mogget? I wonder how he gets from place to place? Would you trust him?
Probably not, since he's described as pure, barely controllable evil beneath the collar.
12. Thoughts on the house and the servants (sendings) that have been created through the generations?
It's a cool idea. I wonder if they ever retire them? There must be thousands, and after a while they get a little uncontrollable.
13. Will she find her father's body? Do you think she should bring him back if she does?
I hope she doesn't, it seems to be a big taboo. And it will probably be a test of her right to be Abhorsen if she can abide by the rules and do what is right, even if it hurts her.
14. Belisaere was the Capital, there hasn't been a King or Queen in 200 years and no Regent for 20, and the Kingdom "sinks day by day into a darkness..."
I wonder why Abhorsen kept the truth about the Old Kingdom from Sabriel?
Yeah, what's going on there. It sounds like Gondor, from Lord of the Rings. It seems like Sabriel is the last person in the Abhorsen line, so he probably needed to keep her safe no matter what.
15. What did you think about the flood? Did she have to do it for the "overall good" in the fight against the dead or was it a selfish act to save herself?
It seems like it was her only option, and she's probably the only one who can stop the big bad. It's sad that she had to let the living slaves drown though.
16. Thoughts on the scenes in the Paperwing? Would you have loosened Mogget's collar?
The paperwing is a really cool concept. I wonder if they have actual airplanes on the other side of the wall? I would not have loosened Mogget's collar. He's a really interesting character, he seems affable most of the time, but I have a feeling that if the collar was ever taken off fully he'd be pure evil.
January 24Chapters viii-xi
11. What do you think about Mogget? I wonder how he gets from place to place? Would you trust him?
I got the impression he had been stuck at the house, like a binding spell. I would probably let him help but not fully trust. Too difficult to trust in a world you don't understand.
12. Thoughts on the house and the servants (sendings) that have been created through the generations?
I wonder why you wouldn't get rid of the old ones that went crazy... Especially if you just have to send them back to where they were created.
13. Will she find her father's body? Do you think she should bring him back if she does?
I don't think she should try to bring him back. Though I suspect she'll get to talk to him somehow.
14. Belisaere was the Capital, there hasn't been a King or Queen in 200 years and no Regent for 20, and the Kingdom "sinks day by day into a darkness..."
I wonder why Abhorsen kept the truth about the Old Kingdom from Sabriel?
It said that he was trying to protect her. I wonder if something would have gone after her too.
15. What did you think about the flood? Did she have to do it for the "overall good" in the fight against the dead or was it a selfish act to save herself?
I think it's hard to tell that type of stuff. Even with things that people agree with is awful (i.e. Hitler) when the events were occurring a lot of people probably thought it was right. Imagine something like killing one person who's a Patient Zero for a terrible illness. Would killing the person for the benefit of millions make it right? It's hard to judge stuff when it's so absolute for some subet of the people involved.
16. Thoughts on the scenes in the Paperwing? Would you have loosened Mogget's collar?
I probably would have loosened it. Nothing left to lose at that point. Plus she seems to be the only one to fight whatever evil is taking over so the world is ruined if she dies anyway.
Mod
8. True! lol
9. Yes I wonder. I may need to re-read that passage
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@Sheila
9. I really like that 9 gate concept too. I want to learn more :)
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@Zonnah
17. I think part of him does want to be bound and he kinds of blocks his "real" self
18. Good point
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@Lisarenee
11. Alert, not alarmed perhaps :)
14. yes. I suppose he didn't realise he would be taken so soon
16. I guess she thought she would die otherwise. It was a pretty scary ride!
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@Jessica
11. Quite the combination, huh?!
12. Hmmm I wonder
14. I think you might be right
15. :(
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@Kelly
12. I guess they feel a responsibility for them
14. Maybe!
15. I think you can't know until you're in that situation. Survival is a pretty strong instinct
Lisarenee wrote: "It sounded like he thought he'd have more time to train her. For some reason he felt it was important she be trained a little differently than he had."Actually, I wonder if her education in Ancelstierre in itself isn't going to play a part. Perhaps he felt Sabriel needed to have ties with this country, too, and not only with the Old Kingdom? The place where she grew up was close enough to the border, so not "deep" Ancelstierre, with people knowing about Charter magic, standing between two worlds, so to speak. Maybe this is important. Maybe her father meant her to have strong ties to Ancelstierre, ties she couldn't have had if she had grown up in the Abhorsen's house.
January 25Chapters xii-xv
17. Mogget's true form is pretty scary! Were you surprised at how aggressive he was? In his "cat" form he had asked her to trust him and remember the ring. Does that mean he is "good" (and wants to be) when bound?
I was surprised his personality changed so much. And then when the collar was back on he acted apologetic. This is so interesting. Can he simultaneously resent the Abhorsen for binding him, but enjoy their company and feel a fondness for them?
18. Touchstone has been wood for 200 years! I wonder how he and Mogget know of eachother and what Touchstone did? Is there something about this that compelled Sabriel to bring him back?
I think Sabriel just wanted to save someone she knew she could and should save. Everything has been confusing, and she keeps hitting roadblocks. She seemed to just want to accomplish something.
19. I like Touchstone as a new companion for her journey and the humour their relationship brings to the story. Thoughts on him so far?
I like Touchstone a lot, although his constant self-loathing is getting a bit annoying. I hope he continues to grow as a character. And I think Sabriel could use another companion.
20. When pushing on the door to the Watchwood:
"I can see time," whispered Mogget, so softly that his words were lost
Is there even more to this free magic / cat than we know so far?
That was such a strange comment. I'm guessing there's more to Mogget than we can even guess at this point.
21. Newstowe's charter stone must be broken. Does that mean another Charter Mage has been sacrificed? Is there anyone left alive in the village?
I doubt our heroes will get a warm welcome from the village. It's probably full of the dead.
Mirliz wrote: I was a bit surprised actually. I thought he would be unruly but never guessed he would be that aggressive"I felt the same way.
Mod
Actually, I wonder if her education in Ancelstierre in itself isn't going to play a part. Perhaps he felt Sabriel needed to have ties with this country, too, and not only with the Old Kingdom? ..."
Good thinking!
Mod
17. yes it is so interesting!
18. good theory
19. I hope he gets stronger soon too
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@Mirliz
17. Ah I guess that is certainly possible.
21. Yes, the world doesn't seem a very nice place at the moment
Mod
Chapters xvi-xix
22. Sabriel decides not to go into Death to find out more about the sacrificed healer. Do you think that was a wise decision?
23. Did you like how Touchstone introduced himself as the sworn swordsman for Abhorsen?
24. I loved how Sabriel got Aline to talk about her lessons on the Great Charter. So clever!
25. What did you think of Touchstone's story? I think they are on the right path looking for Rogir and how frustrating we didn't get to hear from Mogget his past!
26. It looks like we get a YA love story after all. Would you like to see Sabriel and Touchstone together?
27. Do you think they will find Abhorsen's body? Can Sabriel bring him back?
I never saw the similarities to Game of Thrones until you guys mentioned it! I need to pull out the maps to compare. Although I must add that this book was published one year before GOT, so definitely not the YA version :)I also agree that the paperwing scene was hard to get through. At the suggestion of a few commentators here, I'm listening to the Tim Curry version, and the parts that drag on seem much more pronounced than when I've physically read the book. Some things are over-explained.
Prologue-iii
(view spoiler)
Chapters iv-vii
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Chapters viii-xi
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Chapters xii-xv
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January 25 Chapters xii-xv
17. Mogget's true form is pretty scary! Were you surprised at how aggressive he was? In his "cat" form he had asked her to trust him and remember the ring. Does that mean he is "good" (and wants to be) when bound?
I've seen a lot of books that have creatures (or people) who have "beasts" inside them and they want to be good but can't always control it. Maybe he has two sides to him?
18. Touchstone has been wood for 200 years! I wonder how he and Mogget know of eachother and what Touchstone did? Is there something about this that compelled Sabriel to bring him back?
It seems weird that they know each other if Mogget has only been out on a few weekends worth of journeys. She had mentioned that she was happy that there was one thing that she knew how to do. I was thinking as I was reading that it would be very frustrating to keep getting told that you're doing everything wrong when you don't know what you're supposed to be doing.
19. I like Touchstone as a new companion for her journey and the humour their relationship brings to the story. Thoughts on him so far?
He'd probably end up bugging me as much as he does Sabriel. It's hard to know who she can trust. I have the impression the answer is nobody.
20. When pushing on the door to the Watchwood:
"I can see time," whispered Mogget, so softly that his words were lost
Is there even more to this free magic / cat than we know so far?
He's been alive for a thousand years or so, at least in cat form. I imagine he knows a lot of what's going on. Especially hanging around the people trying to fix things. Maybe he used to be bad before he got caught?
21. Newstowe's charter stone must be broken. Does that mean another Charter Mage has been sacrificed? Is there anyone left alive in the village?
I don't think anyone anywhere is very alive at this point. Necromancy always seemed like the worst thing to fight against since everyone who dies adds another number to their side. She really hasn't come across anyone else yet.
Oh wow I am all caught up (again), and there's even a BREAK DAY today. Lucky me :)1. I love a book with a map and a prologue and this one was full of mystery and magic! What did you think of the prologue? Do you like the writing style so far?
I didn't understand what was going on in the prologue, but now that I'm further along in the book, I know now that a baby was rescued from the dead. Now I'm wondering who and where Sabriel's mother is, and if it's common for necromancer's to bring people back from death.
2. So Abhorsen is a necromancer who generally only binds the dead or lays them back to rest. I like that concept, it is different to most other books. Thoughts?
I really wonder what's so special about Abhorsen. This book only reveals information a little at a time, which is frustrating but then again not. Too much information just leads to confusion.
3. Sabriel was saved from death by Abhorsen who, unsually, chose to bring someone back from the dead. Is it just because she is his daughter or is there possibly more to it?
I HAVE NO IDEA AND I WISH I KNEW MORE.
4. The mesenger for Sabriel had a sack containing Abhorsen's sword and bells. Does that mean he is dead (like really dead, not coming back dead!), or is he possibly holding on and hoping she can save him using these items?
It either means that Abhorsen wants her to come save him, or to just have an adventure of her own.
5. I liked the history Horyse gave about The Old Kingdom and how "corpses wouldn't stay buried". It seems like Abhorsen implementing the wind flutes has made a huge difference. I guess someone has captured him in order to have the dead start re-animating again?
Yes, that would make a lot of sense. But then couldn't other necromancers, like Sabriel, continue her father's legacy? Hmmmm, questions questions.
6. It sounds like a pretty hard trek to Cloven Crest. "Does the walker choose the path, or the path the walker"? How will this be relevant? Does it mean that Sabriel was somehow 'destined' for this journey?
Sabriel is definitely destined in some way, because she is the daughter of Abhorsen. Sooner or later she was going to have to take over her father's "job".
8. I love how Sabriel is such a clear thinker. Able to use her necromancing skills and Charter magic and not get distracted from the task at hand. Do you agree?
I think she was trained to be like that. Although I don't understand why her father left her at a school in Ancelstierran. If he really wanted to teach her, then he should've taught her himself. I know, he wants to keep her safe, but the situation she is in now isn't very nice either.
9. So Sabriel's guide is her mother! I was surprised at this, and also had a little giggle when it described the situation of when she first called her. I had assumed her mother would not return to the story, but it looks like she may be quite important?
I would really like to learn more about her mother, like why didn't Abhorsen bring back Sabriel AND her mother.
10. First Thralk and then a Mordicant. I think Sabriel needs to get some allies for her journey! And what is the significance of the "Servants of Kerrigor"?
I bet Kerrigor is some wicked evil dead thing that is planning to take over Old Kingdom, and everything surrounding it.
11. What do you think about Mogget? I wonder how he gets from place to place? Would you trust him?I like Mogget because he is a cat, or at least in that form. And because he is a cat, I would definitely trust him.
Good thing I'm not some kind of heroine in a fictional world, like Sabriel's.
12. Thoughts on the house and the servants (sendings) that have been created through the generations?
That is so cool that every generation a new, personal servant is created. I would love to live in a house like that.
13. Will she find her father's body? Do you think she should bring him back if she does?
I have my doubts. Her father gave her his bells and sword for a reason. If she does find him, I bet his first reaction will be "Sabriel what are you doing here you can't save me!" or something.
14. Belisaere was the Capital, there hasn't been a King or Queen in 200 years and no Regent for 20, and the Kingdom "sinks day by day into a darkness..."
I wonder why Abhorsen kept the truth about the Old Kingdom from Sabriel?
I have no idea. There must be something evil going on.
15. What did you think about the flood? Did she have to do it for the "overall good" in the fight against the dead or was it a selfish act to save herself?
It was for the overall good, because those people were already enslaved, and if Sabriel hadn't called in a flood, then they probably would have been enslaved forever.
16. Thoughts on the scenes in the Paperwing? Would you have loosened Mogget's collar?
Yes I would have, because I rather take my chances. And I'm so sad that the Paperwing was destroyed, because I grew attached to it since it was so magnificent and cool.
17. Mogget's true form is pretty scary! Were you surprised at how aggressive he was? In his "cat" form he had asked her to trust him and remember the ring. Does that mean he is "good" (and wants to be) when bound?
Yes, because all cats, or spirits in cat form, are adorable and deserve to be trusted. Just kidding. I think it's because when Abhorsen "enslaved"/"caught" him, an alter ego was created, his cat form. But when unleashed, I think he forgets everything except for anger for his enslaver.
18. Touchstone has been wood for 200 years! I wonder how he and Mogget know of each other and what Touchstone did? Is there something about this that compelled Sabriel to bring him back?
I really want to know what Touchstone did. I'm not liking the fact that Mogget and Touchstone can't say specific things. Both me and Sabriel are just left in the dark. How frustrating.
19. I like Touchstone as a new companion for her journey and the humour their relationship brings to the story. Thoughts on him so far?
He's a weirdo. But I suspect that something will happen between him and Sabriel. Maybe. You never know.
20. When pushing on the door to the Watchwood:
"I can see time," whispered Mogget, so softly that his words were lost
Is there even more to this free magic / cat than we know so far?
I BET. CATS ARE MYSTERIOUS. I really want to find out soon though.
21. Newstowe's charter stone must be broken. Does that mean another Charter Mage has been sacrificed? Is there anyone left alive in the village?
The Old Kingdom is literally falling apart. I don't think there is anyone alive in the village.
January 25 — Chapters xii-xv17. Mogget's true form is pretty scary! Were you surprised at how aggressive he was? In his "cat" form he had asked her to trust him and remember the ring. Does that mean he is "good" (and wants to be) when bound?
Not surprised at all. Since we know he's a creature of Free Magic, I was expecting something like that from the beginning. What was maybe more surprising is how he waited until Sabriel was up to try and get her, but there may be a very simple reason to that: perhaps he was trying to restrain himself in the meantime, or was still fused to the Paperwing, or perhaps he just wanted her to be aware of what he was going to do, and not just blissfully unconscious?
There must be something in the spell chaining him (as a cat) that makes him forced to help the Abhorsen, and to cough up the ring "in case of". But then, once freed, his nature tends to take over, and after centuries of being imprisoned, constricted into such a tiny form, it must be hard to keep one's calm.
18. Touchstone has been wood for 200 years! I wonder how he and Mogget know of each other and what Touchstone did? Is there something about this that compelled Sabriel to bring him back?
She may have wanted to help someone, since at this point she hasn't been able to really help yet, having to run away without knowing about that much about what she must do. Also, seeing him with his spirit trapped in death seemed a possible echo of what might have befallen her father. So if she can save Touchstone by bringing his spirit back, then maybe she can save her father, too? (I don't recall seeing this mentioned in the book, but who knows, Sabriel may think about it later.)
As for how Touchstone and Mogget got to know each other, there could be plenty of possibilities. Though Mogget hasn't been out much, he used to go with the Abhorsen sometimes, and the encounter may simply have occurred in such a time. Touchstone dates back to 200 years ago: so many things have happened, and been forgotten in the meantime.
What's clear IMHO for the moment is that Touchstone made a mistake—like letting the Queen be killed. Being trapped in wood may have been a punishment, although I don't know by whom it was dealt.
19. I like Touchstone as a new companion for her journey and the humour their relationship brings to the story. Thoughts on him so far?
He seems more self-loathing and a bit whiny than anything else. I get that he wants to atone for something, and demeans himself to do so (his name, behaving like a lackey). I hope he won't stay that way for the rest of the story, though. Sabriel could do with a companion, but not one who spends his time wallowing in self-pity. ^^;
20. When pushing on the door to the Watchwood:
"I can see time," whispered Mogget, so softly that his words were lost."
Is there even more to this free magic / cat than we know so far?
I think it's just something too alien to be fully grasped by human beings. Charter magic seems to be very codified (runes...). Free Magic looks much more unpredictable, with different ways of being bound and forced to obey, and even then you're not sure of what you're getting. Mogget strikes me as a Blue & Orange Morality character anyway, and that comment about "seeing time" may be a reflection of his nature, of how creatures of Free Magic perceive the world in different ways.
21. Newstowe's charter stone must be broken. Does that mean another Charter Mage has been sacrificed? Is there anyone left alive in the village?
Probably not, or the dead would've got to them. If there were survivors, I hope they were savvy enough to run away. In any case, looks like someone (or a groupe of someones) went and broke more than just one Charter stone, in order to weaken such magic over the Kingdom, and not just at the border.
Mod
I have been listening to Tim Curry and I think he does a great job, but I find action scenes can drag a bit on audio, no matter how good the book
2. Interesting. I haven't come across this kind of concept before, but I don;t read a lot of fantasy
4. I think so - you need to get past the 9th gate to be actually dead I think
6. I feel similarly
8. true
12. haha
15. I agree. Insitinct is just to survive and I don't think she really thought about it at the time
16. too true
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@Kelly
18. Oh that's true. I fogot that Mogget hasn't been out much
20. I think you are right
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@Valerie
2. Yes I think if you got everything up front it wouldn't make for a very intresting book!
3. hahaha
6. yes I think so too
11. same here, I am a cat person :)
13. likely!
17. good theory
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@Yzabel
17. I think you are right and it makes him a very interesting character and companion for her
18. Hmm yes I like your theory about Sabriel's reasons for freeing Touchstone and also that Touchstone may have been punished
19. agreed!
20. yes, true
January 24Chapters viii-xi
11. What do you think about Mogget? I wonder how he gets from place to place? Would you trust him?
well since we get the feeling Moget is a bit of a caged free magic creature, I believe Mogget can dematerialize....or perhaps he is just like other cats and is so quiet and slippery that he just seems to??
ghts on the house and the servants (sendings) that have been created through the generations?
Fascinating that they create new ones knowing the old ones don't disapear...what are they created out of, yes I know they look like pure casting, but in most magic there is still a rule that something can't be made ffrom nothing. i wonder how much science is related to this magical realm in that way
13. Will she find her father's body? Do you think she should bring him back if she does?
If she finds her father's body ALIVE but without his spirit which has been hidden along the stream of death, then yes, I do think she should bring him back. If his body is dead, not just in some form of suspended animation I suspect she will be tempted but if she goes to where her father is hidden in the realm of death i think he will not let her bring him back. But i've never read this series, so this is just guess work
14. Belisaere was the Capital, there hasn't been a King or Queen in 200 years and no Regent for 20, and the Kingdom "sinks day by day into a darkness..."
I wonder why Abhorsen kept the truth about the Old Kingdom from Sabriel?
I wondered that as well. Maybe there was some limit to what he could communicate during their talks? Maybe you can't talk about the old kingdom while in the non magical realm? Similar to the limits ofthe charter mages not being able to talk about charter magic? Which made me wonder how anyone ever learns
15. What did you think about the flood? Did she have to do it for the "overall good" in the fight against the dead or was it a selfish act to save herself?
I think Sabriel is torn about this herself, and like most people it was probably both. Primarily in this case I think it was to move forward and safe her father, because that seems her primary thought. I think herslelf and anyone else come secondary to saving her father at this stage
16. Thoughts on the scenes in the Paperwing? Would you have loosened Mogget's collar?
I think I would have tried whistling the wind more, but who knows what one would do in a moment of panic and near death. After all, mogget seems like a nice little kitty who happens to be really smart, old and can talk...he has neglected to mention his true form is this horrific cruel beast. I don't know if she is informed enough to make a wise decision. I would probably do the same given the same information
ok I'm playing catch up today sorry...17. Mogget's true form is pretty scary! Were you surprised at how aggressive he was? In his "cat" form he had asked her to trust him and remember the ring. Does that mean he is "good" (and wants to be) when bound?
I wasn't really that surprised at how scary MOgget was, there is a reason the previous hundreds of years of enslavement have happened. Then again, there is a reason he hasn't been banished to death I suppose, so maybe once collared, he really does want to do good? I'm not sure I kept questioning the validity of the ring. I don't know that I would trust a new collar that mogget himself had given me. It's a bit of a meta situation where the magically enslaved cat may want to escape but has to serve the master so gives her the ring in order to save her from his freed self later, but wants to be free, so tries his damndest to kill her once free, but reminds her of the ring which will enslave him...gah!
18. Touchstone has been wood for 200 years! I wonder how he and Mogget know of eachother and what Touchstone did? Is there something about this that compelled Sabriel to bring him back?
interesting thought. I do think there was something compelling Sabriel to bring Touchstone back, I hope it wasn't just YA angsty love, because I get a bit tired of that in YA books. But perhaps something magical that she sensed and yet couldn't quite put her finger on
19. I like Touchstone as a new companion for her journey and the humour their relationship brings to the story. Thoughts on him so far?
Touchstone could be more honest about his situaiton, I think he was a bit deceived into not being more honest tho. Who knows...it certainly does bring an added comic element that I am enjoying
20. When pushing on the door to the Watchwood:
"I can see time," whispered Mogget, so softly that his words were lost
Is there even more to this free magic / cat than we know so far?
OH I am sure there is. Much like the cheshire cat in Wonderland, I feel there is much more to this cat than meets the eye
21. Newst eowe's charter stone must be broken. Does that mean another Charter Mage has been sacrificed? Is there anyone left alive in the village?
I think sacrificing a charter mage is the only way to break a charter stone that we've hearde of thus far, so I assume one has been killed if a stone is broken. I don't think anyone is alive in the village, but good question
Mod
11. I think of him like the Cheshire Cat and dematerialising
12. oh true. I wonder
13. I'm with you. I think he sent her the sword and bells to pass over the "abhorsen" title
14. indeed! There must be more to it
17. haha!
18. yes there is no YA love story (yet), although they do tend to be love triangles when they happen!
January 27 — Chapters xvi-xix22. Sabriel decides not to go into Death to find out more about the sacrificed healer. Do you think that was a wise decision?
Yes, I think it was a wise decision. As far as Sabriel knew, something might have been lurking in Death, and she would've fallen into a trap, instead of finding the healer's spirit. Also, considering what happened after they went to the island, dead things were definitely too close, so in hindsight, it was all the more wise.
23. Did you like how Touchstone introduced himself as the sworn swordsman for Abhorsen?
Yes, it was official-sounding, without looking demeaning towards Sabriel either. And his reasons for doing so were justified IMHO.
24. I loved how Sabriel got Aline to talk about her lessons on the Great Charter. So clever!
That was clever, indeed. It seems that only those directly concerned (Sabriel, Mogget, etc.) can't talk about the Great Charters, so it made sense to ask someone else.
25. What did you think of Touchstone's story? I think they are on the right path looking for Rogir and how frustrating we didn't get to hear from Mogget his past!
It sheds more light on the events from 200 years ago... yet at the same time, it feels like he's not telling the whole story. Especially when it comes to the fourth child: we learnt about Rogir(ek) and the two murdered sisters, but what about the remaining kid? Also, how come Touchstone, being a Guard (albeit in a royal army), happened to grow up with a prince? (view spoiler)
26. It looks like we get a YA love story after all. Would you like to see Sabriel and Touchstone together?
If it happens in a believable way, why not? Although I think Sabriel can hold her own in many circumstances, so I wouldn't want it to end in a man-protects-woman scenario.
27. Do you think they will find Abhorsen's body? Can Sabriel bring him back?
They may find him when they go underground, but I'd be surprised if he was in a good shape. It appears that her bloodline itself is being targetted, and I doubt Kerrigor would've tarried when it comes to killing an Abhorsen. If her father isn't already dead, he's close enough to it that his life thread can be snapped quickly (all the while being good bait to catch Sabriel).
January 27 Chapters xvi-xix
22. Sabriel decides not to go into Death to find out more about the sacrificed healer. Do you think that was a wise decision?
She seems to almost get caught every time she goes so it probably is smart to limit her trips to only when she really needs to.
23. Did you like how Touchstone introduced himself as the sworn swordsman for Abhorsen?
I thought it was probably a good plan. He didn't really have any time to clear it with her first. She didn't seem to mind after she figured out the reasons. I wonder if they'll ever make it official or just keep playing the role.
24. I loved how Sabriel got Aline to talk about her lessons on the Great Charter. So clever!
Little kids love to show off that they know things. I imagine it's especially so to someone that is famous.
25. What did you think of Touchstone's story? I think they are on the right path looking for Rogir and how frustrating we didn't get to hear from Mogget his past!
I feel bad for him. He's blaming himself for something that would have been very difficult for him to know.
26. It looks like we get a YA love story after all. Would you like to see Sabriel and Touchstone together?
They seem to be getting along better. I think it would be hard for it to be a true love story unless they become more equal. Sabriel treats him as an equal but he doesn't seem to be able to think of himself as one.
27. Do you think they will find Abhorsen's body? Can Sabriel bring him back?
I hope she doesn't end up trying to bring him back. I think she'll find him and end up having to make a decision about what she wants and what would be best for the world.
oh and I do think the wall aspect is similar to both stardust and Game of Thrones, but the tone of the book reminds me of GoT more than Stardust...that said, I think this came out before GoT,so no way that it's the YA version,plus this focuses much more on magic than on royalty
Mod
Chapters xx-xxiii
28. The scene with the scavengers and children was pretty awful. Do you think Mogget was right to stop Sabriel from interfering?
29. They go into the reservoir even though it is probably a trap. Do you agree that they had no choice but to try and find Abhorsen?
30. Ah the truth about Touchstone and Mogget! were you surprised?
31. Abhorsen is back, but only for "a hundred hundred heartbeats". Will it be enough to save them?
32.Her father is taking the sword and seventh bell into battle and death with him. Will Sabriel be able to be successful without them?
33. Does it mean Mogget is now stuck in death too? Will he be able to return?
January 28 — Chapters xx-xxiii28. The scene with the scavengers and children was pretty awful. Do you think Mogget was right to stop Sabriel from interfering?
Yes. As cruel as it seemed, this was IMHO the right thing to do. Had they had more time, saving the slaves would have been a proper move, I suppose, but in their current circumstances, it would've attracted more attention on them, and probably make their mission fail. Including finding out more about Kerrigor, thus having more of a chance to destroy him.
29. They go into the reservoir even though it is probably a trap. Do you agree that they had no choice but to try and find Abhorsen?
I'm not sure what other choice there was. Everything pointed to that place anyway, and whatever answers Abhorsen may have was better than nothing at all.
30. Ah the truth about Touchstone and Mogget! were you surprised?
No, but then I had already read the book. ;) The first time, I was a little surprised indeed. I sensed something fishy about Touchstone, but hadn't necessarily thought about that.
31. Abhorsen is back, but only for "a hundred hundred heartbeats". Will it be enough to save them?
Here's to hope!
32.Her father is taking the sword and seventh bell into battle and death with him. Will Sabriel be able to be successful without them?
The sword I don't know, but the seventh bell would be too much for Sabriel no matter what, and I doubt she'd try to use it. It was introduced as the kind of bell you sound only when there's no recourse left, and when you're ready to be taken in Death, too. Sabriel knows that, and now that she must find Kerrigor's body, she'd be stupid to let her father's sacrifice go to waste.
Although I admit I wonder how she'll get those items back!
33. Does it mean Mogget is now stuck in death too? Will he be able to return?
Probably: death seems to be something for living beings, and Mogget's more a creature of energy, so such laws may not apply to him.
January 27Chapters xvi-xix
22. Sabriel decides not to go into Death to find out more about the sacrificed healer. Do you think that was a wise decision?
I don't know. It's good she didn't exhaust herself. But she may have passed up the opportunity to find important information.
23. Did you like how Touchstone introduced himself as the sworn swordsman for Abhorsen?
It's nice that he's coming out of his shell and being more helpful.
24. I loved how Sabriel got Aline to talk about her lessons on the Great Charter. So clever!
Yes, I was wondering when they would run into a child. The song wasn't very helpful for me though.
25. What did you think of Touchstone's story? I think they are on the right path looking for Rogir and how frustrating we didn't get to hear from Mogget his past!
Poor Touchstone! I was surprised how his story, Mogget, and the Abhorsen's tied together.
26. It looks like we get a YA love story after all. Would you like to see Sabriel and Touchstone together?
I hate cliches, but YES! Touchstone and Sabriel's little attraction feels much more subtle than what's in most YA fiction.
27. Do you think they will find Abhorsen's body? Can Sabriel bring him back?
I hope she can at least talk to him one last time.
Mod
24. Yes, as a few of us have said - it is quite refreshing to have a strong and clever YA heroine
29. Agreed
33. I really like him too!
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@Yzabel & Kelly
22. I was glad about this too. I think the author could've taken the "easy way out" and had her follow into death and created another action scene, so I liked that Sabriel moved on. Makes me feel like the author is in control of the plot and being clever about what to put in
27. I agree
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@Yzabel
28. Yes it was the right decision in the circumstances
30. :) For me it was one of those "a-ha!" moments. I'm clueless at guessing this stuff! haha
32. me too!!
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@Zonnah - #30 you're clearly a better guesser than me then!
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@Jessica
23. Agreed
25. yes :(
26. so true
January 28Chapters xx-xxiii
28. The scene with the scavengers and children was pretty awful. Do you think Mogget was right to stop Sabriel from interfering?
Probably. It doesn't do them any good if they just get sucked back in right after. One of the terrible parts about war is making sacrifices on behalf of other people for a common good or better future. If there's only a few of them fighting to make things better they have to work where it's most beneficial.
29. They go into the reservoir even though it is probably a trap. Do you agree that they had no choice but to try and find Abhorsen?
It doesn't seem like it helped much. It was somewhat of a neutral endeavor. But maybe she needed it for closure to finally move on and embrace her path.
30. Ah the truth about Touchstone and Mogget! were you surprised?
I suppose it's good that they kept one of the royal line alive. I wonder why Kerrigor couldn't find him before now. Maybe he didn't register as alive enough.
31. Abhorsen is back, but only for "a hundred hundred heartbeats". Will it be enough to save them?
I think he just needed enough time to shake the death bell. Anyway, it would be a sad series if they all died 75% of the way through the first book :)
32.Her father is taking the sword and seventh bell into battle and death with him. Will Sabriel be able to be successful without them?
I wonder if he can give them to her again. If not I'm surprised more of those artifacts haven't been lost before. I don't get the impression that most Abhorsen's die of old age.
33. Does it mean Mogget is now stuck in death too? Will he be able to return?
I think he's kinda like the Kerrigor and will come back. He seems way more powerful than he acts.
22. Sabriel decides not to go into Death to find out more about the sacrificed healer. Do you think that was a wise decision?That was a wise decision because one has to realize that you can't save everyone you come across. I'm really surprised she saved Touchstone, but then in the end if she didn't, then they would not have gotten out of that ditch.
23. Did you like how Touchstone introduced himself as the sworn swordsman for Abhorsen?
Yes I did. I hope there's a little bit of romance later on in this book, because I think Touchstone and Sabriel are a good fit.
24. I loved how Sabriel got Aline to talk about her lessons on the Great Charter. So clever!
I would have never thought of that at all.
25. What did you think of Touchstone's story? I think they are on the right path looking for Rogir and how frustrating we didn't get to hear from Mogget his past!
I really want to know more about Mogget. But yeah, it sucks that Touchstone didn't know that Rogir was planning something evil, but I think that in the end, Touchstone, along with Sabriel, will bring an end to what he accidentally started.
26. It looks like we get a YA love story after all. Would you like to see Sabriel and Touchstone together?
Yes, yes I do.
27. Do you think they will find Abhorsen's body? Can Sabriel bring him back?
They probably will find the body, but Sabriel won't be able to bring him back.
Nothing But Reading Challenges
Books mentioned in this topic
A Feast for Crows (other topics)A Feast for Crows (other topics)
A Feast for Crows (other topics)
Stiff: The Curious Lives of Human Cadavers (other topics)
Across the Wall: A Tale of the Abhorsen and Other Stories (other topics)
More...
I hope you all are enjoying the story!
:)