William Morris' Story of the Glittering Plain is a beautifully written tale that transports readers to a fantastical world filled with magic, adventure, and romance. The author's vivid descriptions of the lush landscapes and enchanting characters bring the story to life in a way that is both captivating and immersive.

The plot follows the journey of a young man named Hallblithe as he sets out on a quest to rescue his beloved from a wicked sorcerer. Along the way, he encounters a host of eccentric characters, including talking animals, wise old men, and powerful enchantresses. As Hallblithe navigates through various trials and tribulations, he must rely on his courage, wit, and inner strength to overcome the obstacles in his path.

Morris' prose is lyrical and poetic, creating a sense of wonder and enchantment that permeates every page. The story is filled with rich symbolism and allegory, exploring themes of love, sacrifice, and the transformative power of destiny. As Hallblithe's journey unfolds, readers are drawn into a world that is both familiar and otherworldly, a place where dreams and reality intertwine in a mesmerizing tapestry of words.

Overall, Story of the Glittering Plain is a timeless classic that will appeal to fans of fantasy, mythology, and folklore. Morris' lyrical writing style and imaginative storytelling make this a book that is sure to enchant and inspire readers of all ages.

Book Description:
In this early example of the modern high fantasy genre, Hallblithe, a warrior of the House of Raven, sets out in pursuit of the pirates who have kidnapped his troth-plight maiden, the Hostage. Kidnapped himself, Hallblithe sails to the Isle of Ransom in the company of the giant Puny Fox. Travelling onward to the Land of the Glittering Plain, he spurns the offer of eternal youth and the hand of the King's daughter to continue the search for his beloved. First published in 1890 in the English Illustrated Magazine, The Story of the Glittering Plain was re-published in 1973 as the first volume of the celebrated Newcastle Forgotten Fantasy Library. This recording is read from the gloriously printed 1891 Kelmscott Press edition, with illustrations by Walter Crane. - Summary by Phil Benson