Rapunzel's Revenge

Rapunzel's Revenge
Dean and Shannon Hale, authors
Nathan Hale, illustrator
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Paperback: 144 pages
Publisher: Bloomsbury USA Children's Books; First Edition edition (August 5, 2008)
4/5 stars

Rapunzel's Revenge is a very enjoyable retelling of the Rapunzel fairy tale which moves the setting to the Old Wild West. Rapunzel has been raised to believe that Mother Gothel is her natural mother, but an act of rebellion on her twelfth birthday leads to the truth and Mother Gothel's retribution.

Rapunzel is imprisoned in a bewitched tree tower for four years, during which time her hair grows extremely long, she exercises and finds new uses for her hair out of boredom, and she continues to displease Mother Gothel on her yearly visit. She finally escapes, meets up with Jack, and the adventure really begins as they plot Mother Gothel's downfall.

This was a delightful story, both whimsical and warm, and the Wild West setting gave it a completely unique flavor. A strong female character, a good friendship and humor all the way through round it off to a very nicely done tale.

The art is pleasing, while not exceptional. It rarely does anything to advance the storyline, but does illustrate it nicely and fully brings out the "tall tale" feel to the story.

I'm surprised at the recommended age range, 9-12, and feel that a somewhat older age would appreciate it and understand it better.

Overall, this is an unusual and delightful retelling of a classic story that should please young adult readers, graphic novel fans and lovers of fairy tale retellings.

~~Read for the Graphic Novels Challenge.~~