This is the first book I ever read by Orson Scott Card. I believe I chose a very good start for this writer. The story is quite grand in scale, involving galactic politics, but at the same time intimate as it only involves a specific few characters. The characters are endearing despite their faults. The Songhouse is superbly imagined, reminding me in part of the Sisterhood in Dune, and the concept of the Songbird quite splendid. Read this book!!!