Goose GIrl

Review by Edan
Title: Goose Girl (The Books of Bayren #1)
Author: Shannon Hale
Published: 2003
Publisher: Bloomsbury USA Childrens

Summary:
Anidori-Kiladra Talianna Isilee, or Ani for short, is the Crown Princess of Kildenree. But others cast long glances at her and act like she is an outsider, because when she was young her aunt taught her the language of animals and birds. Her mother forbid her from conversing with her animal friends, so she began working on getting ready to be queen. Soon her mother announces Ani will be marrying the prince in Bayren and she is quickly sent away. On their way to Bayren, her lady-in-waiting leads a mutiny and she and the most of the other guards take the lady-in-waiting to marry the prince. Alone, Ani goes to the king and finds a job as the goose girl for taking care of the royal geese. Ani has secrets that can't be kept for long and she is finally building a trustworthy family around her. Will the truth be enough to convince the king that she real is the princess?

Review:
I know that summary probably sounded really bad, but I didn't really know how to explain the plot. Just read the book, it all makes sense and is amazing. I like how instead of having one universal language of animals, Ani has to learn the body movements and individual sounds of each species, witch is a lot more believable than being able to talk with telepathy. There is some of that though, not to give anything away. I like Ani's character, she is shy and is nervous talking with people. She feels like she can't trust anyone and has to choose between friend and foe. The beginning is a little slow, but the rest of the story is enchanting and beautiful. It was a fun read that I really enjoyed. It is full of mystery, beauty, adventure, chance, friendship and plots. I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys a fun fantasy.

Rating:****