A String in the Harp
A String in the Harp
Book Brief
Beta384
Novel • Fiction
Wales • 1970s
1996
YA
10-14 years
810L
Super Short Summary
In A String in the Harp by Nancy Bond, a family moves to Wales to start anew after their mother's passing. Siblings Peter, Jen, and Becky discover a mysterious harp key that connects them to Welsh mythology and the past, ultimately helping them navigate their present difficulties and strengthen familial bonds.
Mysterious
Fantastical
Nostalgic
Contemplative
Melancholic
Reviews & Readership
1,882 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
A String in the Harp by Nancy Bond is widely praised for its rich Welsh setting and captivating blend of fantasy and historical elements. Readers commend its well-developed characters and engaging storyline. However, some note a slow pacing in parts of the novel. Overall, Bond's novel is appreciated for its ability to transport readers to a vividly imagined world.
Who Should Read A String in the Harp?
Readers who enjoy A String in the Harp by Nancy Bond are likely fans of fantasy intertwined with Welsh mythology and family dynamics. Similar to The Dark Is Rising by Susan Cooper, these readers appreciate atmospheric settings, historical elements, and coming-of-age stories blended with magical realism.
1,882 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
A String in the Harp was Nancy Bond's debut novel and was published in 1976, earning her a Newbery Honor in 1977.
The book is set in Wales and incorporates elements of Welsh mythology, particularly focusing on the legend of Taliesin, a historical and mythological bard.
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Nancy Bond was inspired to write the book after spending a year studying at the University of Wales in Aberystwyth, where the landscape and culture left a lasting impression on her.
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384
Novel • Fiction
Wales • 1970s
1996
YA
10-14 years
810L
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