Firebird (book)
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| Firebird | |
| Author | Mercedes Lackey |
|---|---|
| Country | United States |
| Language | English |
| Genre(s) | Fantasy novel |
| Publisher | DAW Books |
| Publication date | 1996 |
| Media type | Print (Hardcover, Paperback) |
This article is about the fantasy book by Mercedes Lackey. See also: Firebird by Kathy Tyers
Firebird, published in 1996, is fantasy author Mercedes Lackey's retelling of The Golden Bird and The Firebird.
[edit] Plot summary
Ilya is the son of a boyar, a Russian prince, with ten sons, the boyar is happy to have his children sort out their rights for succession. This leaves Ilya the brunt of many cruel pranks and at the bottom of the tier. His only friends are lowly servants who teach him about love, life and the magical creatures that dwell in Russia.
The boyar's pride and joy, his cherry tree is being mysteriously plucked of its fruit. The court is shocked when the culprit is the legendary Firebird. Ilya’s father promises his sons great rewards to whoever catches the bird. When Ilya disobeys his father and makes his own attempt to catch the Firebird, and is surprised to find she is a young woman. He allows the bird to escape and receives the gift to speak with animals.
Banished from home, Ilya finds himself in the castle of Kashchei the Immortal and within reach of Princess Tatania, the most beautiful girl in the world. Pretending to be a deaf-mute, Ilya must use all his wits to win the Princess’ freedom.
