Frogkisser!
by Garth Nix
Scholastic (2017)
Fantasy Chapter Book
Summary:
Poor Princess Anya. Forced to live with her evil stepmother's new husband, her evil stepstepfather. Plagued with an unfortunate ability to break curses with a magic-assisted kiss. And forced to go on the run when her stepstepfather decides to make the kingdom entirely his own.
Aided by a loyal talking dog, a boy thief trapped in the body of a newt, and some extraordinarily mischievous wizards, Anya sets off on a Quest that, if she plays it right, will ultimately free her land-and teach her a thing or two about the use of power, the effectiveness of a well-placed pucker, and the finding of friends in places both high and low.
Why You'll Love It:
Great for 6th-10th graders.
What Else You Should Read:
by Garth Nix
Scholastic (2017)
Fantasy Chapter Book
Summary:
Poor Princess Anya. Forced to live with her evil stepmother's new husband, her evil stepstepfather. Plagued with an unfortunate ability to break curses with a magic-assisted kiss. And forced to go on the run when her stepstepfather decides to make the kingdom entirely his own.
Aided by a loyal talking dog, a boy thief trapped in the body of a newt, and some extraordinarily mischievous wizards, Anya sets off on a Quest that, if she plays it right, will ultimately free her land-and teach her a thing or two about the use of power, the effectiveness of a well-placed pucker, and the finding of friends in places both high and low.
Why You'll Love It:
- This line: “I don’t expect to need rescuing. I’m not that kind of princess.”
- Refreshingly, there’s no romance plot here, and just as refreshingly, the two dark-skinned women are both beautiful and benevolent.
- Playing on fairy tale tropes and conventions, Nix delivers a delightful adventure stuffed with absurdity, magic, and a spirited young heroine.
Great for 6th-10th graders.
What Else You Should Read:
- Newt's Emerald (also by Garth Nix)
- The Apothecary by Maile Meloy
- Princess Academy by Shannon Hale
