The Girl Who Circumnavigated Fairyl...
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One of the most extraordinary works of fantasy, for adults or children, published so far this century.--Time magazine, on the Fairyland series A NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER Twelve-y…
Book Summary
The Girl Who Circumnavigated Fairyland in a Ship of Her Own Making is a critically acclaimed middle-grade fantasy novel by Catherynne M. Valente. It follows twelve-year-old September, who is whisked away to Fairyland and tasked with a quest. Known for its lush, lyrical prose and inventive world-building, it's a modern classic perfect for readers who love smart, whimsical adventures with a literary flair.
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About The Girl Who Circumnavigated Fairyl...
Catherynne M. Valente's The Girl Who Circumnavigated Fairyland in a Ship of Her Own Making introduces September, a lonely girl from Omaha who is spirited away to Fairyland by the Green Wind. There, she learns that the land is under the tyrannical rule of the Marquess and agrees to retrieve a stolen spoon from the wicked woods. Along the way, she befriends a wyvern named A-Through-L and a boy named Saturday, encountering strange creatures and navigating the complexities of a world that is both beautiful and dangerous. The novel is celebrated for its rich, poetic language, its homage to classic portal fantasies, and its sophisticated themes of sacrifice, friendship, and growing up. It is a book that respects its young readers' intelligence while enchanting adults with its wit and depth.
Who should read The Girl Who Circumnavigated Fairyl...?
This book is ideal for middle-grade readers (ages 10-14) who enjoy richly imagined fantasy worlds and clever, resourceful heroines. It will also appeal to adults who appreciate literary fantasy in the vein of Alice in Wonderland or The Phantom Tollbooth, as well as fans of authors like Neil Gaiman and Diana Wynne Jones. Teachers and librarians seeking a modern classic with strong vocabulary and imaginative storytelling will find it a valuable addition to any collection.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Lush, poetic prose that is a joy to read aloud
- ✓ Inventive and whimsical world-building filled with memorable characters
- ✓ A smart, brave, and relatable heroine in September
- ✓ Sophisticated themes that resonate with both children and adults
- ✓ A modern classic that pays homage to traditional portal fantasies
Cons
- ✗ The dense, lyrical language may challenge reluctant readers
- ✗ Some plot points feel episodic and meandering
- ✗ The whimsy can occasionally overshadow character development
- ✗ Certain vocabulary and references may require adult explanation
- ✗ The ending may feel abrupt to some readers
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Frequently asked questions
What is the reading age for this book?
It is generally recommended for ages 10-14, but the rich language and themes make it enjoyable for adults as well.
Is this the first book in a series?
Yes, it is the first book in the Fairyland series, followed by The Girl Who Fell Beneath Fairyland and Led the Revels There.
Does the book have illustrations?
The original edition features interior illustrations by Ana Juan, which add to the whimsical atmosphere.
Is this book suitable for a classroom read-aloud?
Absolutely. Its lyrical prose and engaging plot make it an excellent choice for read-alouds, though teachers may need to explain some vocabulary.
What awards has this book won?
It has received numerous accolades, including the Andre Norton Award for Young Adult Science Fiction and Fantasy and the Mythopoeic Fantasy Award for Children's Literature.
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