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sophia_sol) wrote2015-05-13 09:16 pm
sophia_sol) wrote2015-05-13 09:16 pm
Castle Hangnail, by Ursula Vernon
The author's note at the back references Eva Ibbotson, and with good reason. This book definitely shares a lot of characteristics with Ibbotson - but with the notable difference that it doesn't have any of Ibbotson's recurring problematic themes. And it has the extra bonus of having all of Vernon's particular charm and strengths. So, like, Ibbotson but better. Which is exactly what I want out of middle grade fantasy so I am delighted!
It is the story of a small castle and its minions who are desperately searching for a new Master for the castle (eg: Evil Sorceress, Wicked Witch, Mad Scientist, etc), and twelve year old Molly who shows up to be its Wicked Witch. So pretty much it's a story about finding a place where you belong, and about growing into your strengths (and realizing you have strengths!), and about people (human and otherwise) being supportive of each other. Also, and this is a theme that I don't think I've ever seen before, it's about recognizing toxic/abusive friendships for what they are and that it's okay to not be friends with that person anymore.
Also it's about BATS and MOLES and GARDENING and all that delightful naturey stuff that Vernon is so into.
And it is at the core an extremely good-hearted book, and super charming, and basically I liked everything about it. *happy sigh*
It is the story of a small castle and its minions who are desperately searching for a new Master for the castle (eg: Evil Sorceress, Wicked Witch, Mad Scientist, etc), and twelve year old Molly who shows up to be its Wicked Witch. So pretty much it's a story about finding a place where you belong, and about growing into your strengths (and realizing you have strengths!), and about people (human and otherwise) being supportive of each other. Also, and this is a theme that I don't think I've ever seen before, it's about recognizing toxic/abusive friendships for what they are and that it's okay to not be friends with that person anymore.
Also it's about BATS and MOLES and GARDENING and all that delightful naturey stuff that Vernon is so into.
And it is at the core an extremely good-hearted book, and super charming, and basically I liked everything about it. *happy sigh*
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