The Gift by Alison Croggon

The Gift, which is also known as The Naming, is a popular fantasy novel by Alison Croggon. It follows Maerad, a young yet Gifted girl with Bardic powers. She lives as a slave until she is found by Cadvan, an experienced Bard who is amazed by her natural power. He takes her to what she thinks is safety, but along the way Maerad discovers that the good Bards, like Cadvan, who follow the Light, are about to go to war with the Dark forces of the Nameless One. To Maerad's horror, she is recognized as the Chosen One who will defeat the Dark. Although Maerad is strong, she is ignorant and confused. Under the guidance of Cadvan she learns about her powers and hears of the Treesong, a magical but mysterious musical force that she is foretold to discover. The only thing Maerad discovers is a brother whom she had long thought dead. Although Maerad and her brother, Hem, are parted, Maerad is ready to fight for the Light. So, her adventure to discover the Treesong begins in a magical but dangerous world while her brother is taken to Suderain in the South.
The book is written in a very descriptive poetry-like fashion and is often accompanied by songs and poems that Maerad discovers. The descriptions of the many places she visits are vivid and the characters are very realistic and passionate.
The book is very engaging and is a perfect example of modern fantasy.

This is attually my favourite books. Her poetic talent is obvious in this beautiful book. The book begins in Gilmans Cot, a young girl names Maerad (My-rad) lives there as a slave and feels herself losing all hope in possible escape. Then along comes Cadvan, mysterious, charming and dark. He whisks her away into a world full of magic and intrigue. I must admit when i first saw this book and read the blurb i thought it was just a rubbish author having a crack at the fantasy genre, i couldn't be more wrong. I can't believe how underated Alison Croggon and her books are! They surpass Harry Potter by far. In parts i find myself crying and others having a leaping feeling in my belly. (Cadvan is so charming) This book is deep. Croggon isn't afraid to add in subjects that aren't expected to be in the Childrens/Young Adult sect. (Loving older men/Death/Horrific pasts and scenes) I'm telling you.. I just cannot believe this book isn't as popular as it should be. It just hasn't had the chance to shine. Please people pick up this book.

I just finished what they call "The Gift" but I read "The Name". Seeming how both were infact the same book. I love the way Alison Croggon mixes suspence, excitment, and mystery!! It just makes the book all more fun! I'm working on my own books and hope that reading Alison's books help me. I definitely request this book to everyone who loves a main charrie who is a reble and yet has to save the world! I also would request it to everyone that likes a nice long book to read! =)