Igraine the Brave
by Cornelia Funke
Published by Chicken House (Scholastic)
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Reviewed by Andrea Sisco
Cornelia Funke is one of my favorite writers for children and young adults. In 2006 The Thief Lord found life in film, and in 2008, Helen Mirren will star in my favorite Cornelia Funke novel, Ink Heart. Ms. Funke is German-born and crossed the pond in 2005 to reside in the United States with her children.
Igraine is the daughter of the great magicians Melisande and Sir Lamorak the Wily of Pimpernael Castle and sister to Albert, magician in training. Igraine is the only member of her family who is not interested in magic. Her interest lies in becoming an accomplished and famous knight. Alas, an impossible fete for a girl living in her time.
Life isn’t terribly exciting at Pimpernael castle. There have been no attacks since Igraine was born. But life at the castle is about to change. Osmund, nephew of the Baroness of Darkrock, has plans to attack the castle and steal the famous Singing Books of Magic.
Just before Igraine’s twelfth birthday, there is a slight problem with a spell–and her parents turn into pigs. As pigs they are unable to make magic. But parents-turned-pigs don’t dampen Igraine’s birthday celebration. She is delighted with her gift of a silver suit of armor, complete with helmet.
But life turns serious in short order. Osmund is on the march and all are in peril. With the help of a Giant, a Sorrowful Knight, Sisyphus the cat (who is able to speak after a sprinkling of red magic powder) and brother Albert, Igraine will attempt to defeat Osmund.
Igraine the Brave is the retelling of a Night’s Tale with a twist. It’s a delightful story filled with whimsy, magic and fantasy. The good are really good and the bad are evil. Courage and determination are celebrated and hope is never far away. Middle Readers will enjoy curling up with this book, and I think that it’s a great book to read to the younger children.
Armchair Interviews says: Igraine the Brave is a must read. And check out Cornelia Funke’s other novels. They are stunning.
Author’s Web site: http://www.CorneliaFunkeFans.com