Fantasy fiction, as a genre, is limitless – writers are allowed the power to channel their talents and tell compelling stories. And at the very center of their ideas, guarding their sandcastles is the hero of their story. These heroes are characters decorated and teased from the very beginning. These are the characters who the audiences aspire to become.
One such character is Asim from Tommy Lee Davis’ book, Asim’s Extraordinary Journeys.
The plot of this Davis’ book demands nothing less than a perfect hero. With the village or Tres rummaged by an army of men, who take away all the male children, the villagers have no choice but to seek a beacon of hope in a warrior who resides in the valleys of Panchal.
From the very beginning of the story, we are greeted with Asim, revered as a legend, a great warrior from afar based on all the accounts heard by Yuby, a villager who stepped up and volunteered to bring back the children, a near-impossible task without an army of their own. After the expeditions, they were greeted by a man in his mid-twenties, a suave man, exceptionally attractive and muscular, everything you would expect in a character built up as a hero. Tommy Lee beautifully inculcates a feeling of suspense and excitement leading up to Asim’s eventual entry.
All the build is worth it when Asim’s journey finally begins; we finally get to see why he is so influential.
Here are just some of Asim’s traits that make him the warrior he is.
Generosity
Asim immediately accepted the villager’s plea for help, showcasing his generosity. He was aware of the dangers that he would have to face, sill, without expecting anything in return, he chose to help them wholeheartedly.
Quick Wit
Asim, time and again, through his extensive knowledge of warfare, was a step ahead of the enemy in combat. He has the ability to see danger quickly and doesn’t think twice about drawing his dagger. This quality is a trend throughout the book in Asim’s high-flying action sequences.
Leading from the Front
It is the mark of a true leader to put the pack’s safety before one’s own – this quality always helped Asim make better decisions. Throughout their journey, Asim guides the villagers on where to camp and when to duck to avoid arrows. He selflessly helps them move forward.
Calculated
Asim is a calculated leader; he never makes empty promises. Even though he is appreciated by the men in the village and highly revered, he does not let the fame get to his head. Instead, Asim allows the villagers to be wary of the dangers they are getting themselves into, letting them know that not everyone may return unscathed on this mission. And being under the supervision of a leader of his stature, even the villagers with no prior warfare experience learn a great deal.
Control Over Emotions
The true test of a leader is when they meet tragedy. When met with a circumstance where emotions surface, at that moment, they must swallow their feelings and ensure the safety of the rest of the pack. There will be times in the book when there will be casualties, but instead of mourning the loss, Asim will still abide by his conviction and keep moving forward.
In the constant presence of danger, how will Asim’s talents serve the villagers? Will they be able to retrieve the kidnapped boys?
What other traits does Asim have in his arsenal?
Get your copy of Tommy Lee Davis’ book to find out.
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