Red Prophet

by Orson Scott Card
Red Prophet cover
Good Books rating 4.1
Fantasy
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  • ID: 6410
  • Added: 2025-11-16
  • Updated: 2025-11-16
  • ISBN: 9781405524094
  • Publisher: Hachette UK
  • Published: 2012-12-20
  • Reviews: 3

Red Prophet is the second book in Orson Scott Card's acclaimed Tales of Alvin Maker series, a vast American fantasy epic. The story follows Alvin Miller, a young white boy with magical abilities, and his encounter with the Native American brothers Lolla-Wossiky and Ta-Kumsaw. Lolla-Wossiky, haunted by the murder of his father, struggles with alcoholism, while Ta-Kumsaw seeks to confine the white settlers to the eastern lands. Governor Bill Harrison of Carthage, however, has more sinister plans for the Native Americans, which inadvertently bring Alvin into their world and propel him further on his magical journey./n/nThe novel is vividly written, with memorable characters and a richly imagined setting that blends historical elements with magical realism. It explores themes of power, identity, and the clash between cultures, all while advancing the overarching narrative of Alvin's odyssey.

Reviews
Goodreads · 2025-11-16
exciting 3.80

They describe Orson Scott Card as a great storyteller with a big imagination, making this alternate history exciting, entertaining, and occasionally humorous.

The reviewer praises Orson Scott Card's storytelling abilities and his vivid imagination, which bring this alternate history to life. The narrative is described as exciting and entertaining, with moments of humor that add to its appeal. The reviewer appreciates the unique blend of excitement and thoughtfulness that makes the book a captivating read. This combination of elements makes 'Red Prophet' a standout in the genre of alternate history.

Quick quotes

    Orson Scott Card is a great storyteller and he's got a big imagination.

    This alternate history is exciting, entertaining, thoughtful, and occasionally humorous.

    The narrative is described as exciting and entertaining, with moments of humor that add to its appeal.

Feminist Quill · 2016-01-08
commendable 4.00

They appreciate Card's revisionism and the alternate history told from the perspective of the oppressed. The narrative is commendable for its unique viewpoint and thoughtful exploration of historical events.

The reviewer finds 'Red Prophet' commendable for its revisionist approach, offering an alternate history that provides a fresh perspective on familiar events. The narrative is particularly praised for its exploration of themes from the viewpoint of the oppressed, adding depth and complexity to the story. This unique angle makes the book stand out, providing a thoughtful and engaging read that challenges traditional historical narratives.

Quick quotes

    And that's why I like Red Prophet.

    It is commendable that Card's revisionism allows for an alternate history told from the perspective of the oppressed.

    The narrative is particularly praised for its exploration of themes from the viewpoint of the oppressed.

Fantasy Literature · 2012-10-24
beautiful 4.50

They find Card's depiction of the Native Americans' magical connection with the land beautiful and a lovely addition to American mythology.

The reviewer is captivated by Orson Scott Card's portrayal of the Native Americans' magical connection with the land, which they find both beautiful and enriching. This aspect of the novel is highlighted as a significant contribution to American mythology, adding a layer of depth and enchantment to the story. The reviewer appreciates how this element enhances the overall narrative, making it a compelling and imaginative read.

Quick quotes

    I thought Card's depiction of the Native Americans' magical connection with the land was beautiful.

    It makes for a lovely American mythology.

    This aspect of the novel is highlighted as a significant contribution to American mythology.

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