Book Review

The Goose Girl by Shannon Hale

My review

rating: 5 of 5 stars
I wasn't familiar with the Grimm tale of "The Goose Girl" when I read this book, but the storyline is the same and one that is pretty common throughout most fairy tales genre. It is one of a princess who is betrothed to an unknown prince in a far off kingdom. She is turned "goose girl" by plotting and schemes involving her lady-in-waiting who wants only to steal her crown. It's in this setting of being one of the lesser Forest Folk of the kingdom, that Ani, the true crown princess, finds her voice. The title of "fantasy" is used pretty lightly here since there are not fairies or Ogres or giants in the book, though it does have a type of magic that is easy to believe really exists. It contains key elements of a great fairy tale: a prince, a princess, betrayals, sword fights, friendship, magic, loyalty, courage, danger, and a happy ending!


I love being in the middle of a good book and the middle of this book started fairly early on for me. I loved the setting and the description of the landscape. It was very easy to be drawn into the book, and only took a couple days to finish it. Accents are always pretty hard for me to read but the authors writing was very helpful in this regard. This is a book I would happily add to my own library. I am definitely looking forward to reading more Shannon Hale books!


This book prompts great questions, and reflecting opportunities, perfect for a book group type setting. (Any takers?? Email me!!)


A couple of my favorite words: abeyance and resplendent.


I just loved this line - "I've no more good skin to give over to another bruise." - the goose girl


And then here is my favorite line, one that made me cry because it holds the essence of true friendship or love - "And when you get tired of worrying and mourning your horse and trying not to be afraid, tell me and I'll do it for you a while so you can shut your eyes and sleep peaceful." - Enna


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