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kylasedai's review against another edition
3.0
Read in a single sitting at the airport in Madrid, Spain. My least favorite of all the GCL books I've read, though it was still quite good. I very much liked the emphasis on girl power, and especially the focus on how being brave is very different from not being afraid.
The ending was a bit awkward, and I'm not sure about the 12-year-old princess marrying a hundred year old wizard, either.
The ending was a bit awkward, and I'm not sure about the 12-year-old princess marrying a hundred year old wizard, either.
otherbeth's review against another edition
4.0
Wow, I just love Gail Carson Levine. When my daughter and I have discussed just what a princess should be, we've described Ella (...Enchanted) and Addie, one of the two princesses in this book, not the Disneyfied versions of the responsibilities of royalty (i.e. none, except lookin' pretty and singin' with animals). These are girls one can relate to, and aspire to emulate. But, they're not so far out of reach, because of their insecurities and foibles. Addie's world is complex, full of danger and disappointment, and love and loyalty. Just like the real world, but with more dragons and ogres.
mooyeda's review against another edition
4.0
3.5/5
I grew up loving this book and picked it up today on a whim, and I'm so glad I did! I love that Addie is scared throughout the entire adventure. She embarks on this journey out of love for her sister, despite her fear of monsters and spiders and the unknown.
When I was young I didn't realize that the Gray Death teaches the reader about illness, loss, and grief. And although Meryl is cured in the end, she essentially leaves Addie and her human life behind, which is another loss that Addie must process (this time with a bit more acceptance and optimism).
This book is one that I'd want my children to read and enjoy (which is a little ironic, seeing as I only read it today so I could give it away).
I grew up loving this book and picked it up today on a whim, and I'm so glad I did! I love that Addie is scared throughout the entire adventure. She embarks on this journey out of love for her sister, despite her fear of monsters and spiders and the unknown.
When I was young I didn't realize that the Gray Death teaches the reader about illness, loss, and grief. And although Meryl is cured in the end, she essentially leaves Addie and her human life behind, which is another loss that Addie must process (this time with a bit more acceptance and optimism).
This book is one that I'd want my children to read and enjoy (which is a little ironic, seeing as I only read it today so I could give it away).
britwhimsy's review against another edition
4.0
I love Gail Carson Levine. Always funny, cute, and good female leads. I like this book and others because they are simple, but interesting reads. Good enough to read again. :-)
cynicaltrilobite's review against another edition
4.0
This was a cute read and a good way to start my reading adventures in 2024. I liked how Addie really does overcome her fears in realistic and reasonable ways. The ending definitely leaves a bittersweet taste in the mouth, but is hopeful and happy nonetheless.
The star of the book, in my opinion, is the sadistic but forever lonely dragon Vollys. She frequently kidnaps humans to keep her company, it's even implied she falls in love with them to some degree, but her nature causes her to eventually lash out and kill them leaving her heartbroken. She's such a tragic and interesting character and a take on a dragon that I haven't seen done before. Will probably steal it for my next DnD campaign.
Only knocks against it are that it felt like it took a while to get going and that the ending dragged on a bit long. All and all though, a wonderful little book that I was glad to have read.
The star of the book, in my opinion, is the sadistic but forever lonely dragon Vollys. She frequently kidnaps humans to keep her company, it's even implied she falls in love with them to some degree, but her nature causes her to eventually lash out and kill them leaving her heartbroken. She's such a tragic and interesting character and a take on a dragon that I haven't seen done before. Will probably steal it for my next DnD campaign.
Only knocks against it are that it felt like it took a while to get going and that the ending dragged on a bit long. All and all though, a wonderful little book that I was glad to have read.
khalessie's review against another edition
5.0
This book was amazing. It was sweet, touching and heartwarming mixed with adventure and danger. The characters and plot were magically crafted and I fell in love with Addie and Meryl. The end was so bitter sweet I was crying!
jaimek926's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
I loved this book as a kid and decided to re-read it. It’s just as lovely as I remember. The fantasy elements are wonderful, introducing so many fantastic characters and mythical creatures. It’s an easy read, as it’s meant for younger kids. But I loved it for the fantasy and the nostalgia!
daisyclements's review against another edition
3.0
good book with great ending-wish they would make another one!
the_one_krissy's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
3.25