Monday, June 27, 2011

MMGM: A TALE OF TWO CASTLES

If you've read any of Gail Carson Levine's fairy tale retellings (ELLA ENCHANTED, FAIREST, THE FAIRY'S MISTAKE and so on), you know she makes them her own. Knowing the fairy tell doesn't give away her plot lines. So, I wasn't surprised when she turned Puss in Boots on its head.

A Tale of Two Castles

In A TALE OF TWO CASTLES, people (and fabulous creatures like ogres and dragons) aren't always what they appear to be. Gail Carson Levine mixes classic fairy tale with classic mystery (think CLUE) to deliver a story unlike anything I've ever read.
 Clue: Parker Brothers Classic Detective Game - 1996 Edition
And while the ending does wrap up the mystery, it could lead into a sequel. I hope so. I would happily follow Elodie and her friends through another adventure/mystery. If you've read it, would you read a sequel?


If you'd like to read about more Marvelous Middle Grades (ones you haven't already read), the following people would love to oblige you: 

Have a Marvelous Monday!

   

8 comments:

  1. This sounds awesome. I'm adding it to my list. Thanks.

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  2. Sounds great! My daughter and I enjoyed ELLA ENCHANTED but haven't read others. Thank you for the review!

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  3. Wonder if they'll make a movie of this one, too...

    =)

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  4. You're welcome, Natalie!

    Barbara, ELLA ENCHANTED is still my favorite, but this one ties for second with FAIREST.

    It would make a great "who done it" movie, Sue.

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  5. Oh yes, I reviewed this back in April for MMGM and loved it, of course. I could easily see her writing a sequel to this. More mysteries to solve!

    But I agree -- Ella Enchanted is also my favorite Gail Carson Levine novel.

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  6. I'm glad, Rorie. I borrowed it from Betz, who got it from the library (in case you were wondering).

    Joanne, that's just even more proof that YOU have excellent taste. ;o)

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  7. Ooh, sounds interesting--"classic fairy tale with classic mystery (think CLUE)."

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