Book Review: The Princess and the Goblin by George MacDonald

The Princess and the Goblin
by George MacDonald
Looking Glass Library

Random House Books for Young Readers
ISBN-10: 0-375-86338-9
ISBN-13: 978-0-375-86338-7
Publication Date: January, 2010
List Price: $12.99

Review: Goblins are strange, misshapen creatures that are more clever than ever before, hiding deep within the mountain on which the King’s house is perched. Over the decades they have been planning an oh-so-secretive plot of revenge against the King overhead. This evil plot of theirs will befall upon the King’s 8-year-old daughter, Princess Irene. One day Princess Irene stumbles onto a stairway leading her up through a maze of doors, only to have her find her Great-Great-Great Grandmother, Queen Irene, whom she simply calls, Grandmother. Grandmother gives Irene special gifts to guide her through trouble. Meanwhile Curdie, the miner’s son, has broken through the part of the mountain separating the goblins and miners. He finds it amusing to go in after the goblins to observe their inner workings, only to find and figure out the King Goblin’s plan of revenge. Curdie must now warn the King and Princess Irene, while also spying on the goblins and trying to stop them at all costs. Will Curdie be able to save Princess Irene in time? Find out only in The Princess and the Goblin by George MacDonald.

I found The Princess and the Goblin to be a very interesting read. This book explains to its readers how a true princess should act, and that being courageous may help not only yourself, but others as well. This is a valuable point and should be acknowledged. The story of the Princess and the Goblin tests friendships, beliefs and rights to all creatures. It sheds light on tragedies no one could see coming. This book is great for families, for its way of speaking is quite enjoyable. It feels as though you are sitting with the storyteller, listening to his every word right from his mouth. The tale is a classic and shall be treasured by its readers. I give this book and its author a 5/5 star rating followed by a round of applause. It has truly made me value the way I speak to others, talking with grace and humbleness. After reading The Princess and the Goblin, I began to talk with the same fashion as in the book! It was an astonishing experience on my part, and I feel as though this book has had an amazing effect on the way I think. I would love to thank the author for creating this story.

Review written by Lynnea (6th grade student).

We would like to thank Random House for providing a copy of The Princess and the Goblin for this review.

Have you read The Princess and the Goblin? How would you rate it?