Author- Shannon Hale
Description- The first book in a fantasy series. A fun twist on cinderella mixed in with a folk tale called “goose girl” and adding a dash of people having natural gifts.
Review- Anidori-Kiladra Talianna Isilee, Crown Princess of Kildenree, spends the first years of her life with aunt’s guidance learning to communicate with animals. As she grows up Ani develops the skills of animal speech, particularly birds. Ani was never comfortable speaking with people though. So, when her smooth talking lady-in-waiting leads a mutiny during Ani’s journey to be married in a foreign land, Ani is helpless and cannot persuade anyone to assist her.
Becoming a goose girl for the king to try to get money to travel home, Ani eventually uses her own special, nearly magical powers to find her way.
My take on it- This was a fun light story that I really enjoyed. I liked how Ani gained confidence in herself and with the new found confidence she realized the magical powers that she had within herself.
Awards- 2003 Josette Frank Award, Goose Girl
Recommended Grade Level- Young teen to adult
Reviewed by- Kristen Gedeborg, Avid reader and stay at home mom, 3/17/16
