Charming, witty, and subversive - this clever twist on classic fairy tales is pure delight for anyone who loves strong, witty heroines who use brains over brawn. Jennifer is a refreshingly relatable protagonist: not your stereotypical princess, but an ordinary, resourceful girl navigating a magical world. The playful wordplay and whimsical humor make it a great read-aloud, and Trina Schart Hyman’s enchanting illustrations add real storybook magic. Perfect for young readers, nostalgic adults, and anyone seeking a heartwarming story with a dash of gentle feminism.

Who May Not Like This Book:

Some readers feel the plot can be predictable, especially if you’re already familiar with lots of modern fairy tale retellings. The book’s early feminist themes and focus on lessons might come across as a bit on-the-nose or didactic to certain teens or adults. And, if you happen to get a poorly formatted edition (like some digital versions), the scanning errors can be distracting. Finally, logic-lovers may be left scratching their heads at some of the story’s magical resolutions.

A quick, enchanting fairy tale that flips familiar tropes and uplifts its ordinary heroine - absolutely recommended for anyone craving a smart, heart-filled adventure (with gorgeous illustrations, too!).

About:

'A Hidden Magic' is a charming fairy tale that subverts traditional tropes, featuring a plain and sensible princess named Jennifer who embarks on magical adventures to rescue a vain prince named Alexander. The story is filled with witty wordplay, clever twists, and strong morals, all narrated in a matter-of-fact voice that engages readers in Jennifer's journey through enchanted forests, encounters with witches and sorcerers, and negotiations with powerful enchantresses like Malveenya.

Characters:

The characters range from a sensible princess and a vain prince to helpful sorcerers and magical creatures, each contributing to the adventurous narrative.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is engaging, mixing humor with clever wordplay, while maintaining a straightforward narrative that captivates readers.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot cleverly subverts traditional fairy tale narratives, featuring a princess who embarks on a journey filled with magic and humor to rescue a vain prince.

Setting:

The setting includes a quaint kingdom and an enchanting forest filled with magical creatures and whimsical locations.

Pacing:

The pacing is quick and engaging, with a good balance of action and character development that keeps readers invested.

Now Jennifer was not your average beautiful princess living in a magnificent palace. In fact, she was actually rather plain and shy, with the chubby, good-natured kind of face parents tend to call nic...

Notes:

A Hidden Magic is a comedic deconstruction of familiar fairy tale tropes.

Jennifer, the main character, is described as plain, shy, and chubby.

The story includes elements like talking mirrors, witches, and dragons.

Trina Schart Hyman's illustrations are highly praised for their beauty.

The book subverts traditional fairy tale narratives, highlighting Jennifer's independence.

Jennifer uses her quick wits rather than brute strength to solve problems.

The author, Vivian Vande Velde, is known for her clever wordplay.

The book has a feministic touch, aiming to empower young girls.

Jennifer's character proves that ordinary-looking heroines can be strong and resourceful.

Readers appreciate the mix of humor and adventure in the story.

From The Publisher:

Once upon a time there was a very nice but very plain princess named Jennifer, who, following proper fairy-tale protocol, fell for a very handsome but very conceited prince named Alexander. When Alexander offends a powerful witch, it falls to Jennifer to save him. In the course of doing so, she meets a wizard and soon wonders if she's such a proper fairy-tale princess after all-a good little princess would love Alexander, but does she?

1985

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192 pages

Reader Stats (1):

Want To Read (1)

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A Hidden Magic?

About the Author:

Vivian Vande Velde has written many books for teen and middle grade readers, including Heir Apparent, User Unfriendly, All Hallow's Eve: 13 Stories, Three Good Deeds, Now You See It ..., and the Edgar Award-winning Never Trust a Dead Man. She lives in Rochester, New York. Visit her website at www.vivianvandevelde.com.

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A Hidden Magic

Vivian Vande Velde, Trina Schart Hyman

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