Sunday, November 27, 2011

Goose Girl and Enna Burning, by Shannon Hale



What fun! The tragic story of the betrayed goose girl is retold in fabulous fashion by Hale. Added to the mix are beautiful reminders of what nature is and how closely it is tied to us. Wind is the element of note in this novel. Love, friendship, fate, deceit, honor, and the eventual triumph of truth are all present. Ani is the princess/goose girl, and one of her worker-friends, Enna, is the subject of the next book.

Enna Burning is a much more dramatic book by nature of the fire that pervades the tale, as contrasted with the wind in Goose Girl. The cleverness of the problems faced and solutions to solve age-old (if virtually unknown) problems are intriguing for those who like a puzzle.

The journey and incredible friendship of Ani and Enna are the stuff of lore and legend. The risks and sacrifices willingly undertaken are a testament to the blessing of friendship and the power it has to overcome adversity.