For readers familiar with the dragon series this novel written about the greatest Master Harper in Perns history is deffinately well worth the wait. Robinton, the Master Harper of Pern is undoubtedly many a readers favourite character from the whole series of Miss McCaffrey's Pern books and now here is a book that follows his life and and his love not only of music but of Pern itself. The story starts with the formative years of this musical genius and child prodigy where his father,Petiron, a master composer more involved with his composing than his son, ignores Robinton's amazing talent. His mother, Merelan, a master singer with the help of the other masters of Harper hall nuture and train Robinton who is destined to become the most loved man on the planet. The book continues through his training and follows the years his life before the fall of thread, when both harpers and dragonriders are scorned. His friendship with F'lon the father of F'lar and F'nor who knows thread will return and his life as Master Harper. To the confrontation of the tyrant Fax while the dragonriders are on search for Lessa. Facing many a wall to climb and river to cross trying to bring music and education to the people of Pern. This heart warming and touching book is one of the best of the series which as a whole a joy to read, with many little surprises along the way. I first read this back in 1998 when it was first published but time and time again I return to my old favourites, this being one of them. It was only recently I picked up this book again and experienced a truly magical adventure. Well done Miss McCaffrey and Thank You for many hours of enjoyment