
Diana Wynne Jones's 'Power of Three' is a captivating fantasy novel centered on Gair, a Lymen boy who believes he lacks the magical 'Gifts' of his older siblings. When an ancient curse, born from a past act of violence, begins to spread bad luck and threatens to destroy their entire Moor, Gair, Ayna, and Ceri must embark on a perilous quest. This involves bridging centuries of animosity between their people, the Lymen, the underwater Dorig, and the powerful, unaware Giants (humans). The book beautifully explores themes of self-discovery, prejudice, and the power of cooperation, serving as a subtle parable on race relations. It's ideal for children aged 8-12, offering a rich, immersive world and a protagonist's journey from insecurity to self-acceptance.
Ayna could predict the future. Cari could find what was lost. Gair thought he was ordinary. The three children of Gest, the chief of Garholt, know the perils of the Moor on which they live. The Dorig, their people's enemies, are cold-blooded, fierce underwater creatures who terrify anyone unlucky enough to happen upon them. The Giants are dangerous and violent. But it's not until their home is invaded that Gair learns of a dying curse that endangers all three peoples of the Moor. A curse that ordinary Gair, with the help of his extraordinary brother and sister, may be able to break, but only at the most dreadful risk to all three, and to the Moor itself.