hillaryvillagers

The Goose Girl

Retold by Shannon Hale

Read by Cynthia Bishop and the Full Cast Family

Full Cast Audio brings the author’s 2003 debut novel to life. Listening to the fictional characters on these ten compact discs almost makes this fantasy seem real. Hale’s retelling of the Grimm Brothers’ fairy tale begins with the birth of the Crown Princess, Ani. Her mother, the queen of Kildenree, has royal expectations of her first born. However, Ani is more comfortable communicating with animals and nature. When one of their mares gives birth, Ani hears the foal, Falada, speak his name, and he hears Ani repeat it. Several years later, after Ani’s sixteenth birthday, the queen tells her that she must travel to a neighboring kingdom and marry the prince of Bayern. Ani objects, but leaves Kildenree with her lady-in-waiting, Selia, and several palace guards. Before reaching Bayern, Ani discovers that Selia and some disloyal guards plan to kill her and the remaining guards so Selia can pretend to be the Crown Princess. Ani escapes and eventually arrives at the Bayern palace. Ani disguises herself as one of the forest people and accepts work as a goose keeper. Months pass and Ani finally gathers up the courage to reveal her true identity to the king and prince. The listener will be captivated by distinct character voices and pleased with the fairy tale ending. The listener will hear how Ani’s self-respect and confidence develop along with the story. This outstanding audio book will make the listener feel as though they are sitting in the audience of a theatrical production.

BIBLIO: 2005, Full Cast Audio, Ages 10 up, $45.00.

REVIEWER: Mary Jo Edwards

FORMAT: Audio Book

ISBN: 1-932076-72-7

www.childrenslit.com

I love this kind of story with a happy ending.  Thanks, MJ.