I loved fairy tales as a little girl. Many nights I would go to sleep dreaming I was Cinderella, Snow White or Sleeping Beauty. I still love fairy tales as an adult, with the movie “The Princess Bride” and “Ever After” being two of my favorites.
So I was curious about the “Once Upon A Time” series of books for young girls. So I picked up “Violet Eyes” by Debbie Vigui, and I’m happy to report that I was not disappointed in the least! These “retelling” of favorite old fairy tales from our youth are witty, clever, and imaginative and just modern-ish enough to keep a young “tween-age” girl’s interest. (Hey, if they can keep a 40-something year old “girl’s” interest, they are fine for the younger gals!)
There are currently 15 books in this series, with a new edition, “The World Above,” due out in June. Look for these books in the Young Adult section of your library or bookstore. Check out the website at http://series.simonandschuster.com/Once-upon-a-Time/books for a complete list of the books.
Violet Eyes: A Retelling of "The Princess and the Pea"
Synopsis:
When a storm brings the dashing Prince Richard to her family's farm, Violet falls in love at first sight. Richard also gives Violet his heart, but he knows his marriage is destined to be an affair of state, not of passion. For the king and queen have devised a contest to determine who will win their son's hand in marriage.
To be reunited with her prince, Violet must compete against princesses from across the land. It will take all of her wits — and a little help from an unexpected source — if Violet is to demonstrate the depth of her character and become Richard's bride.
About The Author:
Debbie Vigui - holds a degree in creative writing from UC Davis. Her Simon Pulse books include the Wicked series, co-authored with Nancy Holder, and the Once upon a Time novels SCARLET MOON and MIDNIGHT PEARLS. She currently lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with her husband Scott. Visit her at www.debbieviguie.com.
