Book of a Thousand Days
by Shannon Hale
Published: September 15, 2009
Genres: Fairy Tale, Retelling, Young Adult
Format: eBook (308 pages)
Source: Purchased
When Dashti, a maid, and Lady Saren, her mistress, are shut in a tower for seven years for Saren's refusal to marry a man she despises, the two prepare for a very long and dark imprisonment. With Shannon Hale's lyrical language, this forgotten but classic fairy tale from the Brothers Grimm is reimagined and reset on the central Asian steppes; it is a completely unique retelling filled with adventure and romance, drama and disguise.
The first thing that I loved about Book of a Thousand Days was the writing style. I was immediately immersed in this journal from a maid that felt so authentic. The maid also had me laughing with her honesty. The mythology was so beautiful and unique. I knew where I hoped the plot would go, but I honestly couldn’t tell if that was going to happen. I love it when books make the happily-ever-after impossible! I really connected with the maid who was narrating and felt everything she did. This isn’t really a fairy-tale re-telling. It’s more like the author was inspired by fairy tales and made them her own.
Romance, danger, amazing characters, wonderful mythology, and a strong voice all kept me up well into the night. I feel a little speechless after finishing it.
Content Rating: Mild, for some very minor violence.
About Shannon Hale
Shannon Hale is the New York Times best-selling author of six young adult novels: the Newbery Honor book Princess Academy, multiple award winner Book of a Thousand Days, and the highly acclaimed Books of Bayern series. She has written three books for adults, including the upcoming Midnight in Austenland (Jan. 2012), companion book to Austenland. She co-wrote the hit graphic novel Rapunzel's Revenge and its sequel Calamity Jack with husband Dean Hale. They live near Salt Lake City, Utah with their four small children, and their pet, a small, plastic pig.
My name is Jessica. I love to read Young Adult and classic literature. I’ve been a book blogger for six years and I haven’t gotten tired of it yet. I’m a very curious reader. Writing about all the questions and thoughts I had while reading a book is the best hobby ever.
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