Friday, October 11, 2013

The Girl Who Circumnavigated Fairyland in a Ship of Her Own Making - A Review

I purchased The Girl Who Circumnavigated Fairyland in a Ship of Her Own Making by Catherynne M. Valente  when it was on the Kindle Daily Deal earlier this year.  I previously read Valente's Deathless, which is a Russian fairy tale retelling and the language, characters and depth of her stories made me an instant fan.
Image Credit: Goodreads

Fairyland is the story of 12 year old September who is plucked out of her life in Omaha, Nebraska and whisked away to Fairyland by the Green Wind to confront and defeat the current Marquess. Along the way she meets a rich variety of whimsical characters and learns how to depend on herself physically, mentally, and emotionally.

I found September to be a great role model for younger audiences because she is a strong female lead who is successful because she relies on herself.  There are many times when she has to decide what is right and what is easy, and she questions her values often while in Fairyland.

Overall, this was a highly engaging novel that I would recommend to anyone who likes fantasy or coming of age stories.  It was heartwarming, adventurous, and nostalgic.


The Girl Who Circumnavigated Fairyland in a Ship of Her Own Making is the first in a series of Fairyland books.  The a prequel, second & third books are also available.

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