The Girl Who Raced Fairyland All the Way Home

Reviewed by: Bernie Alie - Kennebunk Free Library, Kennebunk, ME, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: September 2, 2016

Review

#5 in the Fairyland series.

September's reign appears to be short-lived as the Stoat of Arms declares a Cantankerous Derby to determine the rightful Ruler of Fairyland. The one who brings back the Heart of Fairyland will be her Ruler.

Both Saturday and Blunderbuss convince September to accompany them to their home in search of the Heart of Fairyland. Saturday convinces the sea creatures to accept September, and a cuttlefish gives her a tattoo symbolizing their marriage. Blunderbuss is delighted to learn what it truly means to be a wombat. In a nod to the Wizard of Oz, September calls upon her memories of home when battling the Rex Tyrannosaur. But it is story that is the Heart of Fairyland, and Madame Tanaquill does her best to change the ending of this one.

Exquisite lyrical language will appeal to teachers, yet readers desiring adventure may get bogged down in the lengthy descriptions. Sweet gentle romance is portrayed, but not the focus. Valente's Fairyland has traces of steampunk in it. References to alcohol and tobacco may offend some readers. Best for those who have read the whole series and know the back story of each character. Highly recommended.

Overall Book Score: very good