Beauty by Robin McKinley
7 April 2014
Filed under Book Reviews
Tags: Beauty, Once Upon a Time, Robin McKinley, Stainless Steel Droppings
I’ve been wanting to read this book for a long time. A retelling of the story of Beauty and the Beast by Robin McKinley Firstly, I think this is one of my favourite fairy tales. It’s also probably my favourite Disney Film. So I went in with fairly high expectations.
I actually know what it is about this tale that appeals to me. It’s the fact that somebody can see beneath the exterior to what lies within and love a person whether or not they’re attractive. Plus, and I know this probably sounds unreasonable, but it always kind of reminds me of Jane Eyre. Now, I know that’s probably a long stretch but I can’t help making the leap.
I’m fairly certain that everyone will know the story of Beauty and the Beast but for the avoidance of doubt it’s a fairy tale told at bedtime of a family whose fortunes take a downward turn. The father and his three daughters (the mother having, I think, died in childbirth) have been brought up in comfort and style. The father is a merchant with ships that he owns to trade his goods. He becomes a victim of rough tides and loses his wealth. The family then move to the country and live a much simpler life. The father, on returning from a trip to the city, becomes lost and comes upon a dark and foreboding castle and yet he is looked after and fed (although he sees no sight of any person). In the morning, upon leaving he takes a rose from the garden to give to his daughter (nicknamed Beauty – for obvious reasons). Upon taking the rose there is an almighty roar and a huge beast appears and threatens to kill the man for abusing his trust and stealing the rose. The beast demands that the man return in 30 days time – to die – or one of his daughters to take his place (not to die of course but to become a prisoner within the castle)!
That’s basically the gist of the story. In the retelling imagined by Robin McKinley there are a few differences. Beauty has earned the nickname in spite of her looks as she is rather plain and unlike in the traditional tale her sisters are both pretty and fair tempered. The family love each other dearly. In accordance with the original tale their fortunes are lost but they actually then move to the country with a suitor of one of the sisters where they seem to live in relative happiness despite all their extra chores (which they are very unfamiliar with). There is, of course, a foreboding forest – believed to be enchanted – to the rear of their cottage which nobody ever enters. That is until the father does return to the City following the return of one of his ships. On his return journey he does become lost and encounters the enchanted castle belonging to the beast. From there onwards the story is fairly much as above with a few differences like a rather fascinating and enchanted library!
I really enjoyed this story. McKinley has a quite enchanting voice. I liked the fact that Beauty wasn’t actually as her name described. She was actually much plainer than both her sisters although lets be clear here – she’s not ugly, hideous or a beast). I liked this about the story – both of them had inhibitions to overcome. I also liked the enchanted castle and the magical breezes that kept Beauty company.
Reading this again made me realise that in fact both Beauty and the Beast were lonely and in need of each other. I’d never really picked that fact up before. Beauty, even in the more traditional stories, and certainly in this – was always different than the rest of her family. Certainly not an outcast but definitely not the same. The two characters seemed almost compelled to like each other just because of their differences. When you consider the Disney film of the story – Beauty is lovely – and yet the entire village think she is ‘odd’ – simply because she reads! They don’t truly accept her although they want to because she is so pretty (in fact in that tale her prettiness is almost a curse because it draws the wrong attention). The beast on the other hand will never be accepted. He’s far too scary and hideous. It’s the two extremes and although one may seem more desirable than the other in actual fact neither of them truly fit.
I’ve rambled on a bit there and been led off course. This is a lovely retelling of one of my favourite stories from a very good author. If I had any criticism at all it would simply be for a little more of a dark gothicy feel.
Otherwise, I really enjoyed this and would have no hesitation in recommending.
I’m submitting this for my Once Upon a Time reading event being hosted by Carl at Stainless Steel Droppings under the category of fairy tale.
The Adventures of Robin Hood by Howard Pyle
5 April 2014
Filed under Book Reviews
Tags: Howard Pyle, Once Upon a Time, Stainless Steel Droppings, The Adventures of Robin Hood
Just finished reading the Adventures of Robin Hood by Howard Pyle. I read this as my folklore entry for Stainless Steel Droppings Once Upon a Time event.
I don’t imagine Robin Hood needs much introduction. Most people will be familiar with him through film. Living in Sherwood Forest and robbing from the rich to give to the poor. A much loved folklore figure with his band of merry men. Apparently Robin Hood became a popular folk figure during mediaeval times and may have actually sprung up from ballads and tales of real outlaws.
Anyway I went into this with much nostalgia as my gran used to tell us stories of Robin Hood when we were children. She never used a book she just told us the stories from memory and she was an excellent story teller so I had fairly high expectations! I also visited Nottingham Forest as a child with my family and we have a picture of us all with the Major Oak.
I don’t imagine I need to elaborate on the plot. The story brings to us the usual characters that Robin encountered or recruited along the way. Will Scarlet and Little John in particular – although if you’re expecting any of the Maid Marion love story you may be disappointed as she plays a very minor role (more a thought really) I suppose this probably started out more as a tale for boys – although don’t take my word for that as it’s just pure supposition. I did find it quite novel to read of how Robin Hood became an outlaw as I don’t think I’d understood that aspect before. According to this particular story Robin killed a man during an argument and a wager gone wrong. In fairness to Robin the other man shot an arrow at him first so you could argue this was self defence but after that (and also after having killed the King’s deer) he was an outlaw with a bounty upon his head. According to the stories he deeply regretted killing that man and had no taste for bloodshed. His death is also written about here and the legend of how he shot his bow and arrow one last time to mark his final resting place – a sad ending and betrayed by somebody who you would least expect.
I enjoyed reading this, it brought back childhood memories and also I confess that throughout I was thinking of the Disney film and the songs in particular! I wouldn’t say I loved it, although it’s an entertaining read without doubt, but I thought that the writing style, particularly the dialogue in places, is a little difficult to unpick. For example:
‘This same Robin Hood, of whom, I wot, I never heard before, is a right merry blade, but gin he be strong, am not I stronger? And gin he be sly, am not I slyer? Now by the bright eyes of Nan ‘o the Mill, and by mine own name and that’s Wat ‘o the Crabstaff, meet this same sturdy rogue, and gin he mind not the seal of our glorious Sovereign, King Harry, and the warrant of the good Sheriff of Nottinghamshire, I will so bruise, beat and bamaul his pate that he shall never move finger or toe again! Hear ye that, bully boys?”
I certainly didn’t dislike it however and it’s made me think about trying to find a more modern retelling of the stories. If anyone has any suggestions then let me know.
On the whole this was a lovely reading experience although I recognise this particular classical version may not be everyone’s cup of tea.
Beneath the Neon Sky (3rd Book in the Ellie Quin series) by Alex Scarrow
4 April 2014
Filed under Book Reviews
Tags: Alex Scarrow, Beneath the Neon Sky, Ellie Quin No.3
I simply can’t get enough of this series. It’s really great and I love it. I’m holding off reading No.4 though (even though I already have it) because I don’t know when the next is due out so I’m pacing myself. And, thanks again Carl for putting me onto this series – Stainless Steel Droppings, always with the good book recommendations!
The difficulty in reviewing this is of course being the third in a series it will probably contain spoilers, well, you can’t help spoilers in a series so basically if you’ve not read the first two – beware of spoilers (although I usually try and do remain a spoiler free zone!). I’ve decided not to focus too much on the plot in that case and just give a fairly brief review of events to date.
The story starts where No.2 left off. Ellie, Jez and Aaron are about to embark on their money making scheme. They’re happy and things look like they’re really going to work out well with their venture, dare I say that romantic feelings even seem to be growing between a couple of them. Unfortunately, the killer hired by the Administration to trace down Ellie is hot on her tail. We have a real cat and mouse type of affair going on here (although one in which the mouse has no idea it’s being stalked) that gathers momentum very quickly.
What do I really enjoy about this series? It’s sci-fi – but it’s not what I would consider to be ‘difficult’ or ‘hard’ sci fi. There are aliens, robots and virtual pets, cities living under domes and spaceships – your basic sci fi! But, it’s fun, easy, fast paced and entertaining. The characters are likable and in fact I’ve really started to care about them. In fact I want to shout at the three of them in parts – they’re so naive and trusting – not nearly enough paranoia if you ask me! On top of that there’s the whole mystery of what Ellie actually is and the little ‘wiki’ type snippets that are undoubtedly giving us a clue here and there amongst all the other comments included.
These are only short stories – they almost remind me of the book equivalent of the type of tv series that I watched as a child during summer holidays. The type which are only 30 minutes long and give a little introduction at the start of each new episode and basically you can’t wait to return to the next episode because the last always ends with a cliffhanger!! That’s what these stories put me in mind of combined with, for me, a real shout out to Star Wars. I can’t help it, it just reminds me of the first film (and I do mean the first film – not the film that everyone now calls the fourth film!). Obviously they’re not fundamentally the same story but when I read about Harper’s Reach I envision Tatooine, when Ellie returns to the farm I picture Luke’s uncle’s farm! Okay I’ll stop!!
And, for one crazy moment I thought the author was going to give up the jig about Ellie and let spill what’s so different about her! But he’s sneaky and he’s keeping mum about it all. Sneaking.
Anyway, crazy hateful assassins. Murder. Robotic pets. Plus great characters that continue to grow with each new edition. I love the friendship between the two girls but would point out that I don’t think this means the book is aimed primarily at female readers. I could be wrong but I think this story would appeal to anyone. It’s very entertaining and the mystery is definitely intriguing.
Art focus…
**“The job of the artist is always to deepen the mystery.” Francis Bacon **
…in which case the artists who created the artwork below are certainly doing a good job!
Looking at cover art. Because I love it. Because it deserves recognition. Because it’s the first thing that catches your eye when you’re inundated with choice!
I wanted to focus here on some of the cover art that has adorned editions of Apex Magazine. I love art, I’m certainly not a connoisseur and I couldn’t discuss with you all the finer points of some of the art shown below. I simply know what I like and I like these.
The artwork featured below is all courtesy of Apex Magazine. Their website is here if you want to check them out. Also, check out this post at Little Red Reviewer for more information.
I love these pictures, I would definitely hang them on my walls – these might not be your favourites as I do tend to sway to the fantasy side but there are plenty more to stop and look at.
Firstly, look at this lovely picture. Its absolutely gorgeous. It makes me think of Alice in Wonderland and every time I look at it I notice something new. Keys hang from the upper branch and a curtain swept aside reveals a tiny little door that leads to somewhere amazing (I just know it does). I realise that curiosity killed the cat but I really want to know where that door leads to…
Dolls – they’re scary right? And does one of those teddy bears in the picture below have only one beady eye – a la cyclop’s fashion? Are you people trying to give me nightmares? Clowns and dolls aren’t enough – now we have to have scary cuddly toys!
Now just feast your eyes on this picture – I simply love the curly horned guy in this picture – I actually want to be his friend! Make him smile, a nice cup of tea tea and a little bit of sympathy! Really though, does he look forlorn to you? Plus, how fitting is this picture – I’m currently reading Beauty by Robin McKinley and I can’t help thinking of this picture as I’m reading along.
The issue below right has a stunning cover – designed undoubtedly as a reflection of the fact this it was a special Shakespeare edition! Tragic and haunting. I’ll be reading Twelfth Night soon – yes, not exactly Romeo and Juliet – but come on, it’s Shakespeare.
And, finally, for me, this one. Raised by lions perhaps and she has the scars to prove it!
Words of Radiance by Brandon Sanderson, readalong week 1
2 April 2014
Filed under Book Reviews
Tags: Brandon Sanderson, Dab of Darkness, readalong week 1, Stainless Steel Droppings, Words of Radiance
Today marks the start of a 10 week readalong of Brandon Sanderson’s Words of Radiance arranged jointly by Dab of Darkness and Stainless Steel Droppings. This is a very gentle readalong. Only roughly 100 pages a week and it’s going to be awesome so I really hope you’ll all consider joining in – it’s an amazing way to read a book like this in conversation with so many people (schedule here). Anyway, this week’s questions have come to us via Liesel over at Musings on Fantasia. I can’t wait, so, here goes: (Oh, fyi – spoilers below, they’re like spren, if you read this they will pop up all over the place – readingspren!)
1. We basically get the same prologue from the first book except from Jasnah’s POV. She tells Gangnah that her father’s assassin walked on the wall, and it’s ignored. We also see the Parshman leaders immediately take credit for the assassin. What did you make of it all? Insights? Impressions? How will this affect the story going forward?
I thought this was really quite eye opening – it certainly gives the reader a good idea of why Jasnah is so determined to find out about the Parshmen and Szeth. It’s also interesting that Jasnah’s assertion that Szeth walked on the wall was basically ignored. These people really have forgotten all about binding!
2. Andolin and Shallan are unofficially engaged. How do you see this relationship panning out?
I have a good feeling about this (so no doubt it’ll all go pear shaped). I think that Andolin and Shallan could be really good for each other. Andolin needs something to ground him a little and I think Shallan will do just that. Also, he concentrates a lot on running around in fairly fickle company with a constantly changing string of partners – although, that being said, I like him and I think he’s changed already since the beginning of the story. He had a shock about his father and has seen the right in that scenario. By the same token Shallan hasn’t always been the most straightforward of characters. I didn’t really like it when she went to work for Jasnah just in order to steal from her. But, again, I have come to like her and I think the two of them could become a winning team.
3. Kaladin wants to keep his Radiant powers a secret for as long as possible. How successful do you think he’ll be? How long will he remain hidden? Do you think he’ll succeed in training the thousand?
I think that Kaladin will succeed at everything! Of course I’m having a tiny little Kaladin crush so I could be slightly biased. I don’t blame him for wanting to keep his powers secret – once word of that gets out it will be ‘a big thing’. People don’t seem to realise that there’s already Szeth out there with similar powers so Kaladin could almost be looked upon as the ‘first’ one since the Radiants. It could turn into one of those really terrible moments where everyone chases you out of town with pitchforks and torches or he could be put on a pedestal – neither would be really helpful. Plus, he’s got rather a terrible history of everything being taken from him to date so it’s no surprise that he wants to hold onto this.
4. Jasnah thinks Shallan’s spren is a Cryptic, as opposed to an Honorspren which is what Syl is. What do you think is the significance of this? What does it mean for Shallan? For Kaladin?
I love this whole spren thing. It’s just so intriguing and it kind of makes sense that Shallan’s spren is different. I like the idea of a cryptic spren. This spren seems to see things in a different way, nothing is simply straightforward. Although, there is all this talk of one spren thinking that the other spren have been dishonourable so you can’t help thinking that maybe Syl will not like this cryptic spren? Like maybe the cryptic spren have given something away? There was mention by Shallan’s spren of something along the line ‘no lies without truth’, or, I don’t think I’ve phrased that very well, but I think the spren was trying to say if you have one you have the other. Maybe the cryptic spren think that truth is all a matter of perspective. I also wondered why certain types of spren attach themselves to certain types of people? Like Syl being a Honorspren attached to Kaladin – who, as we know is full of honour. Did Shallan attract this Cryptic spren for a reason – she was after all planning on stealing from Jasnah and did tell a few lies along the way, although she had her own justifications??
5. How will Kaladin accomplish all of the tasks Dalinar has laid on him? Do you think Dalinar’s plan with the duels will work to stave off civil war and help unite the high princes?
Did I mention that I’m very fond of Kaladin? No?? Well, I think he’s excellent. I love this character. And, yes, I think he can accomplish all these tasks. I think he’s the type of character that thrives on responsibility and tasks against the odds. Plus, it’s an excellent idea to use the bridgemen and infiltrate them into the protection of the King and Dalinar. After all, they’re going to have their own commitments and bonds and after everything that’s happened they have to start seeing Kaladin as something good. As to the plans with the duels I was completely taken off guard with that. It almost seems a bizarre plan – basically looking at using one person to undermine all the highprinces. Seems tricky not to mention there is always the possibility of Andolin not beating everyone – however, having thought about it, it is quite a cunning plan. Let’s face it, even if Andolin starts to hold duels and wins a few shardblades people will start to take notice. Also, there is always a chance that Sadeas will challenge him and it would be so satisfying if Andolin kicked some Sadass butt! (I called him Sadass on purpose!)
6. After the incident with the ship, do you think Jasnah is truly dead? Predictions?
I don’t think she’s dead and I hope that I’m right. There seemed such a lack of detail – it feels somehow like a foil. I don’t know how and I’m probably wrong but I’m thinking that maybe Jasnah had somehow conjured that scene. I’m probably off with the detail but to kill off Jasnah at this point, for no particular reason or moving on of the plot, seems very unSandersonlike.
7. What are your first thoughts/impressions of Pattern? How do you see his and Shallan’s relationship developing?
I can’t dislike Pattern. It’s a bit like when Shallan first started to draw and then see the cryptics – I just didn’t think they were threatening. I also think it’s interesting that Jasnah thinks the cryptics have driven Shallan to seek her out and train her. If they were really bad wouldn’t they try and keep her away from any other influences. Perhaps they want to help. I don’t know!!
Looking forward to everyone’s comments which will no doubt put me back on the right track!
Don’t forget to stop over all the others.
