Beauty

This ALA Notable Children’s Book, first published in 1978, is a delightful retelling of the classic tale “Beauty and the Beast.” Robin McKinley took the outline of the fairy tale and let her imagination create a totally original version that I thought was much more enlightening, believable, and complex than the Disney version. The ironically named heroine in the story, Beauty, is not beautiful! But she is intelligent and kindhearted. The adventure begins when her family is forced to move into the country to more humble circumstances. I loved the beautiful writing, warm and admirable characters, compelling plot, and positive messages about family, courage, love, kindness, love of learning, and true beauty.

(Reviewed by Jenny Phillips)