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3.92 AVERAGE
3.92 AVERAGE
One of my absolute favorite books from when I was a child, I used to re-read it over and over again!
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Content Warnings
Minor: Confinement, Homophobia, Death of parent
Uses homophobic slurs three times, however I believe this is in an archaic usage meaning an old woman rather than homophobic in intent
A wonderful read from my childhood, one I’d certainly suggest for other youngsters. Whilst it is not my all-time favourite childhood read I can still recall all the details of this one meaning it certainly left a lasting impression upon my young mind.
And isn’t that what we want with children’s books, for them to leave a positive lasting impression?
And isn’t that what we want with children’s books, for them to leave a positive lasting impression?
A bit dated. Wide vocabulary required (from antediluvian to stramash). The plot has good pacing but Eva Ibbotson can do (and has done) better with feminism and original plotting.
Well, not 100% sure about the universe. I know whimsy is the theme of the day, but turning a person into a spider forever, or or hooking up a dead wife-killer and an evil husband-killer together, or turning women into birds (also forever) - that's not exactly something that can just be dismissed with a shrug. Except that's exactly what happens.
Also not a fan of love at first sight, especially when it's mutual. I would have preferred if they got to know each other outside of the competition. Or if they realized they didn't want to get married. I kinda wanted her to get with the secretary, to be honest. And the wizard could have gone on being NOT married to anyone, since the idea bothered him so much. And they could have all lived together and raised the human kid and the kraken kid.
Also not a fan of love at first sight, especially when it's mutual. I would have preferred if they got to know each other outside of the competition. Or if they realized they didn't want to get married. I kinda wanted her to get with the secretary, to be honest. And the wizard could have gone on being NOT married to anyone, since the idea bothered him so much. And they could have all lived together and raised the human kid and the kraken kid.
Picked up from my little sister's old bookshelf. Okay for a day of reading, wouldn't read it again.
I loved this book when I was younger, and it holds all sorts of nostalgia for me. The characters are funny and unique and your heart goes out to the little orphan boy and to Belladonna, the white witch who falls in love with a dark wizard. You'll be thinking of these characters long after you finish their story! This novel holds up well even now that I'm an adult rereading.