A review by whisperfox
Princess Academy by Shannon Hale
3.5
[7/10]
Initially I read this book as a leap of faith. I had read other things by the author and loved them, so I thought I'd check this out even though the premise seemed very silly. But, it sucked me in and surprised me by being much more than it looks like it would be at first glance.
Upon re-read, it holds up as being immersive and fun to read. It sucked me in just like it did the first time I read it. This book brings together the insecurity and moldability of a teenage girl protagonist with the anchor of her connection to her home and the people she loves. The story unfolds in a very heart-warming, almost ugly-duckling way in terms of emotional development.
The storytelling here is simple, but that doesn't take away from it for me. The pacing is well done and leads effortlessly to a satisfying climax. And I would be remiss if I didn't mention the magic system. I love the idea for this magic system, and it's the main thing I take away when I think about what makes this book special.
Would let my hypothetical children read. Definitely a book you shouldn't judge by its cover (or title).
Initially I read this book as a leap of faith. I had read other things by the author and loved them, so I thought I'd check this out even though the premise seemed very silly. But, it sucked me in and surprised me by being much more than it looks like it would be at first glance.
Upon re-read, it holds up as being immersive and fun to read. It sucked me in just like it did the first time I read it. This book brings together the insecurity and moldability of a teenage girl protagonist with the anchor of her connection to her home and the people she loves. The story unfolds in a very heart-warming, almost ugly-duckling way in terms of emotional development.
The storytelling here is simple, but that doesn't take away from it for me. The pacing is well done and leads effortlessly to a satisfying climax. And I would be remiss if I didn't mention the magic system. I love the idea for this magic system, and it's the main thing I take away when I think about what makes this book special.
Would let my hypothetical children read. Definitely a book you shouldn't judge by its cover (or title).