Two Words, One Answer.
Marion Raven
 Marion Zimmer Bradley's Ravens of Avalon $7.99 While I have enjoyed many of the transitional books written by Diana Paxson since Marion Zimmer Bradley's death (and before) in the Avalon series I take a small exception to this one. Let me explain why: Boudica is an actual historical figure who did something incredible and remarkable as a queen on behalf of her daughters, herself and her people against overwhelming odds. She did NOT employ any sort of 'magic' to do it - only courage, rage and her absolute belief in the rightness of what she was doing and why she was doing it. Normally, I like the incorporation of historical figures into fiction - it lends the feel of authenticity and opens up the possibilities of "what if". This is the reason I am a big fan of the sci-fi and fantasy genres. But there is a danger in this particular depiction. Today's generation of young women have grown up in a time where feminist goals and ideals have been incorporated - for better or worse - into much of everyday society. They are either unaware or uncaring of how hard fought those battles were every single day in every place by ordinary women to gain ground for the equal treatment of women. To "magicalize" the already great accomplishments of historical women like Boudica is to actually MARGINALIZE and somewhat trivialize depictions of the well documented accomplishments of just how magnificent we as women can be - EVERY woman. Of course, the motivated reader has a great deal of information at their fingertips to research the well documented facts of people like Boudica. The problem I foresee is that very many people are no longer motivated to do such research - especially (and sadly) the youngest of us who could use such real life role models today. I'm hopeful that the author keeps this in mind in future books where she might employ other such great female historical figures.  Here I Am $21.99 Marion produces damn good rock music with little effort. The passion is clear on this CD as she wales through an assortment of songs from sweet and soft to hard and brash. She has a polished sound from years of experience in the business as a member of M2M. She is branching in the right direction.  Here I Am $21.99 Marion produces damn good rock music with little effort. The passion is clear on this CD as she wales through an assortment of songs from sweet and soft to hard and brash. She has a polished sound from years of experience in the business as a member of M2M. She is branching in the right direction. |
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