The Elfstones of Shannara is the second book in Terry Brooks’ Original Shannara Trilogy, following the adventures of Wil Ohmsford and Amberle Elessedil in the magical world of the Four Lands.
Summary
The Elfstones of Shannara takes place in a world protected from demonic forces by an ancient tree called the Ellcrys. As the Ellcrys begins to die, demons start breaking through its magical barriers, threatening the Four Lands. The story follows Wil Ohmsford, grandson of Shea from the previous book, who inherits the powerful Elfstones. He is tasked by the Druid Allanon to protect Amberle Elessedil, an Elven princess chosen by the Ellcrys to carry its seed to a place called Safehold, where it can be reborn.
As Wil and Amberle embark on their perilous journey, they face numerous challenges and enemies. The Demon hordes, led by the fearsome Dagda Mor, are determined to stop them and destroy the Ellcrys. Along the way, they encounter Eretria, a beautiful Rover girl who joins their quest. Wil struggles to master the magic of the Elfstones, which he needs to protect Amberle.
The trio faces many dangers, including the relentless pursuit of the Reaper, a powerful demon sent to kill them. They receive help from various allies, including the Elven armies and a group of Rovers. As they near their destination, Wil finally learns to control the Elfstones’ power, using it to defeat the Reaper at Safehold.
Amberle successfully renews the Ellcrys seed in the Bloodfire, but at a great personal cost. Upon returning to the Elven garden, they find the demon forces on the brink of victory. In a final sacrifice, Amberle becomes the new Ellcrys, restoring the barrier and banishing the demons back to the Forbidding.
The story concludes with Wil renouncing the use of the Elfstones and leaving with Eretria, while Allanon returns to his long sleep until he is needed again.
Key themes:
- Sacrifice and duty
- The burden of magical power
- Coming of age and self-discovery
- The struggle between good and evil
- The importance of friendship and loyalty
Character Details
Wil Ohmsford
Wil is a half-elf and the grandson of Shea Ohmsford, the hero from The Sword of Shannara. He inherits the powerful Elfstones and is chosen by Allanon to protect Amberle on her quest. Initially unsure of his abilities and struggling to control the Elfstones’ magic, Wil grows into a courageous and determined protector. His journey is one of self-discovery and learning to harness his innate magical abilities. Wil’s compassionate nature and healing skills as a healer-in-training often come into play throughout the story.
Amberle Elessedil
Amberle is an Elven princess and one of the Chosen, guardians of the Ellcrys. She is selected by the dying Ellcrys to carry its seed to the Bloodfire for rebirth. Initially reluctant and unsure of herself, Amberle grows into her role as the key to saving the Four Lands. She is brave, determined, and willing to make the ultimate sacrifice for her people. Her journey is one of acceptance and embracing her destiny, even in the face of great personal cost.
Allanon
Allanon is the last of the Druids, a powerful and mysterious figure who guides and protects the main characters. He possesses vast knowledge of magic and history, often appearing when he is most needed. Allanon is enigmatic, sometimes manipulative, but ultimately dedicated to protecting the Four Lands from evil. His role is that of a mentor and strategist, providing crucial information and support to Wil and Amberle.
Eretria
Eretria is a Rover girl who joins Wil and Amberle on their quest. She is cunning, resourceful, and fiercely independent. Initially introduced as a potential antagonist when she steals from Wil, Eretria evolves into a loyal companion and love interest. Her skills in survival and her street smarts often prove invaluable to the group. Eretria’s character arc involves finding her place in the world and forming genuine connections beyond her Rover upbringing.
The Dagda Mor
The Dagda Mor is the primary antagonist, a powerful demon lord who leads the assault on the Four Lands. He is cunning, ruthless, and possesses formidable magical abilities. The Dagda Mor represents the ultimate evil that Wil, Amberle, and their allies must overcome to save their world.
Reader Fit
The Elfstones of Shannara is perfect for fans of epic fantasy who enjoy intricate world-building, magical quests, and coming-of-age stories. It appeals to readers who appreciate complex characters facing moral dilemmas and personal growth.
The book is suitable for both young adults and adult readers who enjoy immersive fantasy worlds with a mix of action, adventure, and emotional depth.
Quick Facts
- Genre: Epic Fantasy
- Publication Year: 1982
- Reading Time Estimate: Approximately 15-20 hours
- Notable Awards: None specifically for this book, but the series has garnered significant popularity and critical acclaim.
Related Books
- The Sword of Shannara by Terry Brooks (first book in the trilogy)
- The Wishsong of Shannara by Terry Brooks (third book in the trilogy)
- The Dragonbone Chair by Tad Williams (another epic fantasy with similar themes)
