Iron Hearted Violet

September 17, 2012
Barnhill (The Mostly True Story of Jack) creates a splendid fantasy around a story’s power to change the world. Princess Violet deeply loves reading and telling tales of all sorts, even ones about beautiful and graceful princesses—which she is not. She is fascinated when a strange book and magical painting discovered
in a hidden room of the castle reveal the forbidden story of a banished god, the Nybbas. Left to her own devices, 13-year-old Violet doesn’t realize the danger: the book is true, she has become part of its unfinished story, and the big question is whether Violet will be the villain or the heroine. Layered and complex, Barnhill’s story brings a modern feel to age-old fairy tale tropes while recognizing that an offhand remark can cause deep and lasting damage. Messages about self-esteem, acceptance, and the power of the heart may feel heavy to seasoned readers, but those same positive themes, the trim chapter lengths, and Barnhill’s nimble prose make this a winning choice for before-bedtime readalouds. Final art not seen by PW. Ages 8–12. Agent: Steven Malk, Writers House.

March 1, 2013
Gr 4-7-Known for his award-winning work with adult titles, Simon Vance takes on the role of Cassian, storyteller of the court, to narrate Barnhill's tale (Little, Brown, 2012). Violet is not a traditional princess-she's not beautiful, graceful, or obedient. She's brash and inquisitive, adventurous and loyal, and also a girl who collects and tells stories. This is how she comes across an obscure reference to a 13th god when everyone, especially Cassian, insists there are only a dozen of them. Vance manages to capture the pathos and humor as a crisis develops when the banished god, Nybbas, tries to take over. The audio broadens otherwise static characters for an entertaining experience with commentary from a sardonic dragon and banter among three ancient beings who sound something like leprechauns from a Monty Python skit. This is a timeless story featuring the conflict between an evil god and a brave, unattractive princess who manages to save the day, but not the kingdom.-"Janet Thompson, Chicago Public Library. W. Belmont Branch, IL"

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