by Gene Wolfe
First published 2005
A teenage boy finds himself pulled from our world into a magical realm with seven levels of reality. Magic transforms him into a full-grown man with heroic strength, and he adopts the name Able. He embarks on a quest to claim a sword promised to him, a blade he must obtain from a dragon. This weapon will help him achieve his dream of becoming a true knight and hero. Despite his adult body, Able retains the mind of a boy inside. He must mature in every way to navigate the perils and wonders ahead. His journey brings encounters with giants, elves, wizards, and dragons across this layered world. The sword represents more than a weapon. It symbolizes his transformation from boy to man, from dreamer to hero. Able must prove himself worthy through courage and growth, learning what knighthood truly means.
Genres: adventure, coming-of-age, fantasy, epic
Vibes: emotional, suspenseful, thought-provoking
Tropes: chosen-one, coming-of-age, fish-out-of-water
432 pages · Kindle Edition · Tor Books