Living into legend

I have seen the look on this young man’s face when he discovers a new story. Many times I have nearly slipped up to help him and then, at the last second, realized that he needs no help. His face is full of reverence and breathless anticipation. His hands hold a book lightly, as if it might fly away on an adventure of its own, and then he slowly pulls it toward himself—a treasure. He wants to take the adventure into himself. In these moments I am glad to stay in the shadows. The books have done my work for me. And yes, this young man is a legend.

Down they went, not knowing what had become of their sister, not knowing what lay at the bottom of the mountain, not knowing anything but hunger, thirst, cold, and weariness. They had come further and done more in their few years than most men ever would. They were living lives that would pass into legend.

Stories would be written about them—stories that would be read by children and parents at bedtime. Brothers and sisters would enact their favorite scenes, dressing up like Fangs or sea dragons or even Podo Helmer. Janner, Tink, and Leeli had done so themselves when they were children, Podo had done so with his siblings when he was young, and so it had been all the way back to the First Fellows, who heard tales from the Maker’s own mouth about other worlds he had made.

—From chapter 73, “Across the Chasm.”

What snippet did you best love from your reading this week? Share it in the comments! Then, come to the forum. Settle in and sip some bibes. Share what’s on your mind. We are gifts to one another.

p.s. Have you seen this giveaway?