Series ~ Single Title
Author ~ Jessica Day George
Release Date ~ January 8, 2008
Age Group ~ Middle Grade
Publisher ~ Bloomsbury USA Children’s Books
Source ~ Emily’s Reading Room
GOODREADS SUMMARY
Blessed—or cursed—with an ability to understand animals, the Lass (as she’s known to her family) has always been an oddball. And when an isbjorn (polar bear) seeks her out, and promises that her family will become rich if only the Lass will accompany him to his castle, she doesn’t hesitate. But the bear is not what he seems, nor is his castle, which is made of ice and inhabited by a silent staff of servants. Only a grueling journey on the backs of the four winds will reveal the truth: the bear is really a prince who’s been enchanted by a troll queen and the Lass must come up with a way to free him before he’s forced to marry a troll princess.
REVIEW
In a time when everything in the world seems cold, one girl will go on an impossible journey of hope. She will find love, loss, and a strength she never knew she possessed. This retelling of East of the Sun, West of the Moon is a beautifully enchanting tale.
As the unnamed ninth child of her family, the Lass is a simple and kind girl. The Lass feels unwanted by everyone but her oldest brother, Hans Peter, with whom she shares a special bond. It comes to pass that these two have something unexpected in common, making their bond all the stronger.
When The Lass saves a white reindeer, she is given two gifts, the gift of a name and the ability to communicate with animals. Because of this second gift, the Lass finds herself living with an isbjorn (polar bear) for a year and a day with the promise of great riches for her family. Life is confusing in the isbjorn’s castle, and the Lass’ curiosity lands her on a dangerous journey to save a prince from an evil troll queen.
The Lass’ journey is filled with magic and intrigue. I found it impossible to put the book down until I knew how it would all play out. The people and creatures the Lass came upon all added to the suspense.
Jessica Day George has a remarkable way of creating fairy tale magic. Her writing style is like that of the classic fairy tales, where I find myself hanging onto every word. The world needs more of her endearing stories.
RATING
5 Loved
COVER COMMENTS
I don’t care for this cover. At first, I thought the parka fur was the Lass’ hair. I would have preferred something with more of a fairy tale look.
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