Honest review of The Princess and the Goblin: Princess Irene and Curdie Adventure

Dive into the enchanting world of George MacDonald's "The Princess and the Goblin," a timeless fantasy adventure. This Pudome Classics edition follows Princess Irene and the courageous Curdie as they unravel a perilous mystery beneath their kingdom. Menacing goblins plot in the shadows, challenging the princess's bravery and testing the strength of their unlikely friendship. Guided by a magical thread and the wisdom of Irene's great-grandmother, they embark on a thrilling journey filled with danger and discovery. First published in 1872, this captivating tale explores themes of courage, trust, and the timeless struggle between good and evil, leaving a lasting impact on young readers and adults alike. Experience the magic and moral lessons woven into this classic story.

Hardcover 16.39 USD

Paperback 8.99 USD

4.5 / 879 ratings

Review The Princess and the Goblin

Oh, I just loved revisiting "The Princess and the Goblin" and its sequel, "The Princess and Curdie"! I'd read them as a child, and honestly, experiencing them again as an adult was even more rewarding. While George MacDonald's writing style is definitely a product of its time (1872 and 1883, respectively), that slightly old-fashioned language adds a certain charm. It's not difficult to follow, just a bit different, and it honestly adds to the fairytale feel.

What struck me most was how much these stories still resonate. They're filled with classic good versus evil themes, but MacDonald handles them with such nuance and imagination. It's not a simple, black-and-white portrayal; there's complexity to the characters and their motivations, making them feel very real even though they're in a fantastical world. The goblins, for instance, aren't just mindless monsters; they have their own society and struggles. It's a delightful exploration of morality for young readers, but one that adults can appreciate as well.

The magic in these books is wonderful. It’s not flashy or over-the-top; it feels subtle and woven into the fabric of the story, adding an element of mystery and wonder without overshadowing the characters or plot. The creatures MacDonald creates are truly imaginative, both frightening and captivating. The way he describes them is so vivid; I could almost feel myself descending into those mines with Curdie or exploring the strange, subterranean world of the goblins. The final battles, with all the strange creatures and birds involved, are particularly thrilling. There's a satisfying sense of justice at the end, where the bad guys get their comeuppance, but it's done in a way that's clever and unexpected, not just a simple happy ending.

I will admit, MacDonald could be a bit long-winded at times. There were moments where I found myself needing to reread a sentence or two to fully grasp what he was saying. However, these little moments of denser prose were easily balanced by the sheer inventiveness of his storytelling. The pacing is a little different from what we're used to in modern children's books; it is more thoughtful and doesn't rush the narrative. This deliberate approach allows the story and its themes to develop organically, lending depth and complexity.

The characters are undeniably endearing. Princess Irene and Curdie are brave and resourceful, showing children the importance of courage, kindness, and loyalty. They are compelling leads who overcome challenges by relying on their wits, their compassion, and their faith in something larger than themselves. The supporting characters, even the less-than-savory ones, are fascinating and well-developed.

Both "The Princess and the Goblin" and "The Princess and Curdie" are truly timeless classics. They're more than just children's stories; they are rich with imagination, morality, and adventure that will capture readers of all ages. While the writing style might take some getting used to, the rewards far outweigh the minor challenges. I wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone looking for a captivating and thought-provoking read.

Information

• Dimensions: 5 x 0.39 x 8 inches
• Language: English
• Print length: 154
• Publication date: 2024

Book table of contents

Preview Book