Hexwood

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Magic and morality - Rated
Hexwood is, for me, (I'm an adult) by far the best of Diana Wynne Jones' books that I have read. The reason I love this book is that it has a moral heart that makes it utterly extraordinary. It looks at life and death and moral responsibility, which makes it far more than just entertaining - which it is, very! Diana's sense of humour shines through, and also anger at the ways we unjustly manipulate each other. The cruel way the hero was brought up is heart-rending and reminds me of concentration camp experiments on helpless victims. It is complicated, I read it several times to get the story straight and understand the many references to the mythology of King Arthur - all with typical DWJ twists! But I enjoyed it more each time and love the very beautiful images she creates. Dragons and robots in one book! It's truly magical!

Switch your brain on for this one! - Rated
This is the first DWJ book I've read, and I really enjoyed it. Very intelligently written, with quite a surreal feel to it - the action doesn't always take place chronologically, and people keep changing identities so you're always one step behind...! Overall though, a stimulating and challenging read. Female protagonist, but has enough male characters that a boy would enjoy it. I shall track down the Chrestomanci books now - I feel that I have been rather lax in not reading Wynne Jones before now!

Hexwood - Rated
This is a very confusing book! the time in the story leaps about so you hardly ever really know whats going on. this is one of the books strong points, because it always keeps you guessing. typically, with Diana Wynne Jones, nothing is as it seems, and no one is who they think they are. the storyline is quite similar to howls moving castle, and castle in the air in that way.
Other than that, this book is totally original, you won't find anything else quite like it. some people have said that this book is quite difficult because of the way the time changes and such, but its not really, its still a childrens book and it all works itself out in the end.

Simply magical - Rated
The first time I read this book, I didn't understand it. It was confusing, almost contradictory, and absolutely nothing was what it seemed - and I loved it. The multi-faceted characters were wonderfully portrayed, and it was brimming with that Diana Wynne Jones magic that pervades every one of her books. And, of course, I fancied Mordion instantly.

I'm pretty sure I understand it slightly better now, but on every re-read there are quirks, plot twists and surprising realisations that I'm sure I have never seen before - certainly, it's a book that demand several readings to be appreciated fully. The non-chronological structure, rich mythological references and multiple confused identities might in any other book make for a tedious read. However with Wynne Jones's magical flair they make this tale even more full of wonder, and it sparkles even on a baffling first read.

If you simply enjoy reading a book once, or switching your brain off while you read, this isn't the book for you, but if you happen to be a fan of 'challenging' books, or love to think while you're reading, or even just enjoy rich fantasy, I would say this book is an utter must-read. This book may be more complicated than some of the others, but it is my favourite Diana Wynne Jones book, and an essential for all fans.

one of her very best - Rated
This is one of Diana Wynne Jones' more complicated books. However, it really repays the effort of reading it, with superbly drawn characters and a very satisfying plot. Mordion stands out as one of the best of those damaged yet fanciable men she does so well. DWJ's books are always magnificent, and Hexwood shines among them.