The Books of Bayern (Book 1): The Goose GirlBy: Shannon Hale
Genres: Adventure, Fantasy, Magic, and Romance For Ages: 12-16 Crown Princess Ani has lived her whole life inside the palace walls of the capital of Kildenree, a small country beside a huge forest. As a child, her aunt taught her to speak to birds, and she is shunned by everyone around her. Deciding that her insecurity and shyness is inadequate for a Kildenrean ruler, her mother sends her as an alliance to Bayern, the large country across the forest. But during the two month journey, Ani is betrayed by her escort, and instead of walking into Bayern as a princess, she walks in as a goose girl. Ani must use all her wits and courage to defeat the traitors. What a great book. It sounds so princessy, but it actually has merit and politics in it, with just the right amount of romance. Sooo good. It is really creative and thrilling with swordfights and hidden powers. The author creates a world where everyone is born with the power to communicate well with people, animals or nature, and I found myself frequently trying to speak to the wind long after this book was over. A magical tale of truth and hope, it tells of finding where you truly belong. I would rate this book: A Must Read 5 Stars: * * * * * |