Book Review: The Two Princesses of Bamarre

Hi guys!

This week's book review is on The Two Princesses of  Bamarre, one that I just finished reading this week. Overall, I enjoyed the descriptive, poetic writing, the creative characters, and the setting. However, I must admit I was disappointed by some aspects.

                                      
Author: Gail Carson Levine

Genre: Fantasy

Summary: (From Barnes and Noble)

When plague strikes Bamarre, Princess Addie must fulfill an ancient prophecy.

Brave and adventurous, Princess Meryl dreams of fighting dragons and protecting the kingdom of Bamarre. Shy and fearful, Princess Addie is content to stay within the safety of the castle walls. The one thing that the sisters share is their unwavering love for each other.

The tables are turned, however, when the Gray Death leaves Meryl fatally ill. To save her sister, meek Princess Addie must find the courage to set out on a dangerous quest filled with dragons, unknown magic, and death itself. Time is running out, and the sisters' lives—and the future of the kingdom of Bamarre—hang in the balance.

What I liked about it:

• The sisterly love. Addie and Meryl's devotion to each other is really sweet and touching. Addie's drive and bravery appears to originate entirely from her love for her sister. I think this adds warmth and feeling to the story.
• The descriptive and poetic feel. In tribute to Bamarre's legendary poem, Drualt, this book is written very much like a poem itself. It also is filled with several excerpts from Drualt, which I thought was interesting and original. Through this you begin to see many parallels between Addie's adventure and Drualt's.
• A classic yet original feel. Although it follows the vague plotline of a traditional fairy tale, it has enough unique twists to make it a story of it's own.
• It's inspiring. I mean, come on. Who doesn't love a story about finding courage?

What I disliked:

•  I didn't fall head over heels for the characters. I know that Gail Carson Levine is indeed capable of creating lovable characters--she did it in her Newbery Honor Book,  Ella Enchanted.
• I didn't like the ending. I don't want to spoil anything, but I was disappointed by the conclusion. Although the conflict is technically resolved, this story, in my eyes, does not end happily ever after.

Conclusion:
Overall, this was a good book. I enjoyed the general wit, writng, and plotline.
Although there were some disappointing components, I would definitely say this book is worth reading.

If you enjoy the book, check out Gail Carson Levine's other books. To visit her website, click here.

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Happy Reading!

The Paige Turner

For more fantastic MMGM recommendations on Shannon Messenger's blog, click here.