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I Was a Rat!

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'I Was a Rat!' by Philip Pullman is a retelling of the Cinderella story from the perspective of a rat who was transformed into a boy by Cinderella's fairy godmother. The story follows the boy, Roger, as he navigates life in a world where people misunderstand him and try to take advantage of him. Despite the initial simplicity of the narrative, the book offers a biting commentary on sensational journalism and ends with a fun and surprising resolution.

The plot unfolds with Roger finding himself living with an old couple, Bob and Joan, after being turned into a boy. As Roger tries to adjust to his new life, he faces various challenges and encounters funny situations, including being portrayed in the media as a monster. Ultimately, it is the kindness of Bob and Joan, along with the help of Princess Aurelia, that saves Roger from a dire fate.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is straightforward and accessible for children, with a touch of humor and satire about media.

Plot/Storyline:

The story presents a unique twist on the classic Cinderella tale, focusing on a rat-turned-boy's misadventures, media frenzy, and eventual rescue.

Setting:

The setting blends whimsical fairy tale elements with contemporary societal issues, enriching the narrative.

Pacing:

Pacing is generally linear and straightforward, ideal for younger audiences but may feel slow to others.
The boy looked wonder-struck at this idea. He watched over his shoulder as Joan led him to the kitchen sink and tipped in some water from the kettle, and while she was washing him, he kept twisting hi...

Notes:

The story is a twist on the Cinderella tale, focusing on a boy who claims to have been a rat turned into a coachman.
The boy, named Roger, ends up living with an old couple, Bob and Joan.
Roger faces various challenges, including running away from school and getting involved with a freakshow.
A group of boys who are thieves help Roger escape from the freakshow.
The story features a trial to determine Roger's fate as the 'monster rat boy' amidst public hysteria.
Joan, Bob, and a princess help save Roger from execution.
The book contains satirical commentary on sensational journalism through tabloid articles interspersed in the narrative.
The writing style is simple and accessible, making it suitable for younger readers.
Many readers find the story charming but note that it feels lighter than Pullman's other works, like 'The Golden Compass.'
The ending has a fun twist that surprises many readers.

From The Publisher:

"I Was a Rat!" So insists a scruffy boy named Roger. Maybe it's true. But what is he now? A terrifying monster running wild in the sewers? The Daily Scourge is sure of it. A victim of "Rodent Delusion"? The hospital nurse says yes. A lucrative fairground freak? He is to Mr. Tapscrew. A champion wriggler and a budding thief? That's what Billy thinks. Or just an ordinary small boy, though a little ratty in his habits? Only three people believe this version of the story. And it may take a royal intervention-and a bit of magic-to convince the rest of the world.

Set against the backdrop of a Royal Wedding-and a playful parody of the press, I Was a Rat! is a magical weaving of humor, fairy tale, and adventure.

About the Author:

PHILIP PULLMAN is one of the most acclaimed and best-selling writers at work today. He is best known for the His Dark Materials trilogy: The Golden Compass, The Subtle Knife, and The Amber Spyglass, which has been named one of the top 100 novels of all…

 
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