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3.81 AVERAGE
3.81 AVERAGE
I think it is well balanced for older young readers, with not too much gore but enough going on to keep them reading.
I like the idea of a school where the characters in fairytales go to learn, though I found that much of the time, the "evil" students were nicer than the "good" ones ( barring Sophie of course, who was obviously evil from the very start).
Original review: I was expecting it to be interesting but not quite this good! I was completely drawn into the world of Gavaldon and the School, and after reading it had to reflect upon reality for about 15 minutes before I could figure out what I was supposed to be doing (sleeping as it was 2am).
This book explores the conventions of 'beauty = good' and 'ugliness = bad' in most traditional fairytales, and also the sexist nature of fairytales. For example, when one of the fairytale girls says that if a girl can't get a date to the Ball she might as well be dead, whereas for boys it's a choice not to go with a girl, Agatha is aghast (and so was I) at this attitude.
The book also stresses the importance of friendship - which I think is the most important kind of love, the kind that lasts a lifetime, above and beyond all the trials of romantic love. The ending was profoundly emotional and I actually ugly-cried which is very unusual, so very well done Soman Chainani!
I am looking forward to reading the next books in the trilogy - words can't describe my excitement when I found out there was a sequel!!Side note: When books like these are classified as 'children's fantasy' books - I can't decide whether it's annoying as they are just as good to read at 18, or if it's a good thing, as this book has important, relevant themes that children should be reading about!
My review of A World Without PrincesMy review of The Last Ever After
My review of Quests for Glory
I had an issue with the ending, but I just realized this is a trilogy (I really shouldn't be surprised since everything is a trilogy these days) so I hope all will be resolved in further books.
The construction of the world is fairly interesting, however, and that's what has made me request the second and third audiobooks. While book one is rough, the core idea is intriguing enough to bring me back. It reminds me a bit of "The 10th Kingdom," which I adored, and a little bit of the Disney "Descendants" series, which intrigues me.
Overall, I'd say this book could be a huge miss for a lot of people, so avoid it as a gift. Library check-outs are good, and preferred over adding it to your own collection without a trial.
