Lips Touch

I am not a big fan of fantasy anymore the way I was in my teens, but even then I read more sci-fi than fantasy. However, LIPS TOUCH is by far the best collection of modern folktale fantasy. Laini Taylor has a most exquisite storyteller voice. From the very beginning, I trust her to trap me in her web of stories. I have spent three late nights reading her book, instead of getting to bed and the characters linger. This is a book I will read again ... and again ... and when my children are old enough, share with them.
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She says that she is no scholar (neither am I) but she is true to the essence of the religions she borrows from. I am familiar with them and yet, I could never have dreamt up these tales. They are wholly her own creations, beautifully imagined and written. This book ought to be read aloud because the language is so lyrical. Like a picture book, every word counts in Lips Touch.
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The illustrations by Jim di Bartolo are gorgeous. I only wish they were interspersed throughout the book instead of in chunks. They add to the atmosphere of this book.
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I am a huge admirer of Laini, for all that she does (arts & crafts, mothering, writing) and with such aplomb. She has a terrific site where she shares her writing process. It's long but well worth the read. Congratulations on being an NBA finalist, Laini! It's very well deserved.
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The upshot of reading this amazing book is that many books that I was previously excited to read are falling flat, flat, flat. And it scares me. Will my books ever be good enough?

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