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Judith Colombo’s Fantasy novel The Fablesinger was first published in 1989 by The Crossing Press. It received many fine reviews then, including the one in Kirkus that led me to purchase the original copy. I lent the copy to a friend who never returned it to my great regret. Recently, I purchased a copy of the new Author Guild Backinprint.Com Edition. The Fablesinger is no less wonderful the second time around.
It is a classic myth of good and evil which although cosmic in its implications, is focused on one island in the Caribbean. The Story begins with a creation myth which introduces the world of The Fablesinger. Then, in the first chapters we are introduced to the old Fablesinger, a wise and powerful shaman and healer. It is the Fablesinger’s duty to protect the people in her care both spiritually and physically. Her most important duty is to train an apprentice to succeed her. However, the present Fablesinger has failed to do so and now in the twilight of her life, her village and world are threatened by the evil Obeah man a wielder of dark magic and follower of the Sasambonsam or Lord Of Darkness.
The spirits step in. An apprentice is chosen for the Fablesinger and sent to her for training. The story follows the young woman, Marcia, through her training, the acquiring of her totem, her developing relationship with the old Fablesinger, and their joint battles against the Obeah man. The story climaxes with the death of the old Fablesinger and the final magical battle between the apprentice, turned Fablesinger, and the powerful Obeah man.
This novel is well written and engrossing. I love fantasy and myth and this novel held my attention to the very end, weaving an hypnotic tale of good and evil, magic, and mystery.
Review by Harry Rodriguez posted on Tuesday, August 7, 2001.