Book Review: Princess of the Wild Swans, by Diane Zahler

While middle grade fantasy is probably one of my least favorite genres, Princess of the Wild Swans did manage to keep me entertained, and I can definitely recommend it to fans of fairy tales.

Meriel is typical spoiled princess. She doesn't really have to do anything she doesn't want to -- even though her governess tries to get her to learn to sew. She has five brothers, and a father who dote on her, and no mother.

When her father brings home a new queen, Orianna, Meriel's world turns upside down. Her father is totally entranced by Orianna, and the queen seems to want nothing to do with Meriel. Then, Orianna sends the five brothers away to school, and Meriel is absolutely devastated.

She finds out that all is not as it seems -- her brothers really aren't away at school, but I won't tell you any more than that. Suffice it to say that Orianna is evil. Meriel has to grow up and become a strong, determined woman in order to save her family, and she does. I don't think that is a spoiler, since this is a fairy tale, and we all know they live happily ever after.

The pacing in this one keeps you turning the pages. I think it is easy to get frustrated with Meriel, but things happen pretty quickly and she redeems herself. Liam nad Riona, who become Meriel's friends and help her free her brothers, are the most interesting side characters. There are also lots of interesting mythical creatures -- witches, faeries, puca, merrow, and others that keep the fairy tale sufficiently ethereal.

It's a quick read that younger fans of fairy tales will enjoy. I would even say 4th and 5th graders would like this one.

Published by Harper, January 31, 2012
ARC won from Small and Ruby
212 pages

Rating: 3/5

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Book Review: Scary School by Derek the Ghost

Scary School will have the younger crowd giggling as they turn the pages.  This book is a bit younger than my usual fare, but I can appreciate the appeal to it's intended audience.

Scary School is a school for normal "human" kids and scary creatures alike. The book describes each of the many colorful and diverse characters (both students and teachers) as the plot is exposed. The Ghoul Games are going to be held at Scary School, and this will be a first. Every Scary School student will pick a game, and will compete with creatures from other schools. The winners get to eat the losers. Yes, that's correct. Eat.

The characters, settings, and events are understandably absurd and over the top. But for grade schoolers, this will keep them turning the pages. The author speaks to the reader, a la Lemony Snicket, and kids who enjoy those "school" stories will most assuredly like these. (I'm not a grade-school expert, but things like Wayside School, The Bailey School Kids, etc.)

This would be a nice book for a read aloud, particularly around Halloween. The only negative comment is that I found some parts very repetitive, but maybe this is an appropriate tactic for younger readers. For example, "Studies have shown that the more scared children are, the better they learn" was repeated too many times for me. I also got tired of being told Frank was pronounced "Rachel."

The book is illustrated beautifully by Scott M. Fischer which adds much to the story. Recommend this to your 8 to 10-year-olds who like silly stories. This is the first in a series, and Derek reminds the reader of topics for future books throughout the story. So keep on the lookout for Monsters on the March in June, 2012.

Published by Harper, June 21, 2011
Copy obtained from the author for review
233 pages

Rating: 3/5

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