Discover books similar to "Beauty: A Retelling of the Story of Beauty and the Beast"
Robin McKinley
Beauty: A Retelling of the Story of Beauty and the Beast
4.05
Robin McKinley's "Beauty: A Retelling of the Story of Beauty and the Beast" is a captivating and beautifully written novel that breathes new life into the classic fairy tale. Published in 1978, McKinley's debut novel is a testament to her storytelling prowess and her ability to weave together a tale that is both familiar and fresh. The novel is set in the countryside of northern England, where the Beauty's family moves to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Beauty, the youngest of three sisters, is a plain and unassuming girl who loves to read and spend time in the countryside. When her father stumbles upon a mysterious enchanted castle and picks a rose for Beauty, he inadvertently angers the Beast who lives there, and Beauty sacrifices herself to save her father's life. McKinley's Beast is a complex and sympathetic character, far removed from the brutish and frightening creature of the original fairy tale. He is a lonely and melancholic figure, longing for companionship and love. As Beauty gets to know him, she sees past his monstrous exterior and discovers the kind and gentle soul within. One of the strengths of McKinley's novel is the rich and detailed world-building. The enchanted castle and its grounds are described in lush and evocative language, making it easy for the reader to imagine themselves there. The relationship between Beauty and the Beast is also beautifully portrayed, with McKinley taking her time to build up their friendship and eventual love. "Beauty: A Retelling of the Story of Beauty and the Beast" is a must-read for fans of fairy tales and anyone looking for a beautifully written and moving love story. McKinley's novel is a timeless classic that will continue to enchant readers for generations to come...
List of books similar to "Beauty: A Retelling of the Story of Beauty and the Beast":
Robin McKinley
Rose Daughter
If you enjoyed 'Beauty' by Robin McKinley, you might like 'Rose Daughter', another retelling of a classic fairy tale by the same author. This time, McKinley puts her unique spin on the story of Sleeping Beauty, weaving a rich and intricate tale of love, magic, and the power of kindness.
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Gail Carson Levine
Ella Enchanted
Fans of 'Beauty' will likely enjoy 'Ella Enchanted', a witty and engaging retelling of the Cinderella story. In this version, Ella is cursed with obedience, leading to a series of humorous and heartwarming misadventures as she tries to break the spell and find her own happiness.
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Shannon Hale
The Goose Girl
For those who enjoyed the rich world-building and intricate plot of 'Beauty', 'The Goose Girl' is a great choice. This retelling of a little-known fairy tale follows a princess who is betrayed by her trusted companion and must navigate a dangerous new world filled with magic and intrigue.
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Robin McKinley
Spindle's End
If you can't get enough of McKinley's storytelling, 'Spindle's End' is another must-read. This retelling of Sleeping Beauty is a sprawling epic that explores the lives of several characters, including a young girl named Katriona who must navigate a world of magic and danger to save her kingdom.
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Diana Wynne Jones
Howl's Moving Castle
Fans of 'Beauty' will likely enjoy the whimsical world-building and magical creatures in 'Howl's Moving Castle'. This beloved fantasy novel follows a young woman named Sophie who is cursed by a witch and must seek the help of a mysterious wizard named Howl to break the spell.
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Robin McKinley
The Hero and the Crown
If you enjoyed the strong female protagonist in 'Beauty', you'll love Aerin in 'The Hero and the Crown'. This coming-of-age fantasy novel follows Aerin as she trains to become a knight and battles dragons to save her kingdom.
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Robin McKinley
Deerskin
Trigger warning: sexual assault. 'Deerskin' is a powerful and moving retelling of a little-known fairy tale that explores themes of trauma, healing, and self-discovery. This novel is a more mature and intense read than 'Beauty', but McKinley's beautiful prose and nuanced characters make it a rewarding one.
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Robin McKinley
The Blue Sword
If you enjoyed the epic world-building and adventure in 'Beauty', 'The Blue Sword' is a great choice. This fantasy novel follows a young woman named Harry who is thrust into a world of magic and danger as she trains to become a warrior and defend her kingdom from invaders.
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Elizabeth Marie Pope
The Perilous Gard
For fans of historical fiction and fantasy, 'The Perilous Gard' is a great choice. This novel is set in Tudor England and follows a young woman named Kate who is accused of treason and sent to live in a remote castle, where she uncovers a world of magic and danger.
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