Pattou, Edith. East. Whereas Zel was a modern version of a fairy tale in fairy tale format, East is a combination of elements from fairy tales in a fantasy format. A charming story that incorporates aspects of Beauty and the Beast and East of the Sun and West of the Moon, East is the story of Rose and the White Bear, magical enchantments, and a mythic journey.The chapters are told from the viewpoint of the various characters, a technique that bothers some, but that I like because it gives insight into each character that would not otherwise be available. This book reads very quickly and would be more suitable for younger readers than Zel; while Zel's writing style is simpler, its content is more complex and more appropriate for a more mature audience.
East is emphasizes the importance of commitment, but not in a pedantic way, and the adventure is exciting. A lovely version of a fairy tale.
Fiction. YA. Fairy tale/fantasy. 2003. 494 pages.
I've had this one on my wishlist for a while, but I had forgotten about it. Thanks for the reminder! It sounds great.
ReplyDeleteIt has a Bear, how can it possibly fail in this household? It's on the list from this point on.
ReplyDeleteNymeth - I find it interesting to look at the various elements in this story, some old and some new, from the gift of shoes to the weaving to the wind rose.
ReplyDeleteAnn - Surely the Bears have their own book shelf. I have to wonder what books would be included on the Bear Book Shelf...
I know several people who would enjoy this simply for the polar bear! :) I see some gift giving in my future.
ReplyDeleteCarl - I like the cover on this one very much! The image of that bear stayed with me all the way through.
ReplyDeleteCharming tale! You have convinced me to put this on my to-be-read list! In agreement with everyone else, who cannot deny cute tales with polar bears? :]
ReplyDeleteorchidus - I enjoyed this one and would readily recommend it as a great interpretation of the original.
ReplyDeleteSo glad you enjoyed this book. I thought it was wonderful when I read it last year and it's good to be reminded of a really good book.
ReplyDeleteFramed - Yes, it was a pleasure, and I plan on looking for more by Pattou.
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