“A fun, unexpected, action-packed reimagining of a classic story.” —Molly Knox Ostertag, author of The Witch Boy
Frozen meets The Wizard of Oz in this swashbuckling adventure perfect for fans of Amulet and The Okay Witch, from the acclaimed author of Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy.
Odette and Dillie are supposed to be enemies. Their kingdoms have been feuding since before they were born.
But when the two princesses meet each other at the lake that separates their castles, it’s clear they were destined to be best friends. Odette—who lives with a curse that magically transforms her into a swan when the sun rises—is happy to find someone who treats her like everyone else. And Dillie has finally met someone who understands her dream of having an adventure instead of sitting on a throne.
When they discover that Odette’s curse is the reason for tension between their families, they decide to follow an ancient legend that could lead them to someone who can set everything right. As they travel through enchanted lands, meet new allies, and fight terrible foes, Odette and Dillie are put to the ultimate test.
But when the time comes, will they choose their deepest wishes or the fragile fate of their world?
Gr 4-8-One of the most popular ballets of all time gets an epic graphic novel retelling. The kingdoms of Bloom and Rotbart have been on the brink of war for ages thanks to a curse cast upon Princess Odette, which causes her to transform into a swan every morning and back into a girl at nightfall. She lives an overprotected life in her castle until she flies off in a fit of rage one day to weep alone on the lake. Here she's discovered by Princess Dillie (Odile), the swashbuckling, mohawked heiress to the Rotbart throne. The two become fast friends, Odette explaining the nature of her curse and Dillie sharing how she lost her leg, which is now outfitted with a prosthetic. The friends are nearly driven apart by the allegation that Dillie's father cursed Odette. Believing that that isn't true, Dillie and Odette set off on a quest to reverse the curse and clear King Rotbart's name. There are deadly challenges, new friends (Prince Fred, of the Montrose Kingdom, and his bear pal Benno), and plenty of swordplay and ballet along the way. The true highlight of the story is the beautiful, supportive bond among the children. Odette and Dillie, who appear to be white, are honest, kind heroes, while Fred, who has a darker complexion, is brave and clever. The bold, expressive artwork is lively and enchanting, and the ending leaves space for a sequel and some possible queer romance. VERDICT Readers who love high-stakes quests will fly through this one. A recommended first purchase.-Abby Bussenα(c) Copyright 2011. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
