book_nut's review against another edition
I adore Wendy Mass, but this just didn't do much for me.
justcatherine's review against another edition
4.0
I would feel comfortable giving this book to a late elementary reader. No mature content, rather an pleasant retelling of the classic story with backstory that made me curious to see how the characters' lives would intertwine.
I felt like her biggest weakness was in the interweaving of the protagonists' lives. It seemed forced and poorly planned. I liked the separate character backstory elements. It was the meshing together that was lacking. All in all, I'd give it 3-1/2 stars.
I felt like her biggest weakness was in the interweaving of the protagonists' lives. It seemed forced and poorly planned. I liked the separate character backstory elements. It was the meshing together that was lacking. All in all, I'd give it 3-1/2 stars.
yapha's review against another edition
4.0
The third in the series of expanded fairy tales by Wendy Mass, this one gives quite a bit of background to both the Beauty and the Beast sides of the stories including an entire Quest for Beauty as well as interesting motivation for the witch who turned Prince Riley into a Beast. Told in alternating chapters from each of their points of view, the back story helps the reader care so much more about both of them than in the original fairy tale. A satisfying read all the way around! Recommended for grades 3 & up.
faeriedrumsong's review
5.0
So adorable. Well written, well thought out twist on the tale. Perfect amount of romance for middle grade, and perfect amount of plot and adventure. Nothing too scary, but there are definite consequences. The main characters are both so likeable! Very enjoyable.
stackattack's review against another edition
4.0
I loved the story and the characters!! I wish it had an epilogue though!!
ktjames's review
2.0
It was okay. An easy read, just not a favorite. Several parts felt pointless, just filler, as the actual retelling was interesting. Another part that bothered was the age of the characters (yes, it’s more true to the original, but who really believes thirteen year olds will fall in true love?). Overall, just alright.
librarylisa's review
4.0
I really enjoy this series. I like that the characters are just right to be read by middle grades, the storyline keeps me engaged, and the story feels fresh, in spite of hearing it a hundred times. Mass does a great job of re-envisioning the classics into fun new stories. Beauty and the Beast is my favorite fairytale, so I was concerned I wouldn't like this one, but it was very enjoyable.
rahthesungod's review against another edition
2.0
Nice, surprising, clever, but not one of Mass's best.
irah's review against another edition
5.0
I have to say, I like how it shows both ways of the story, it's creative, cute, and funny.