Hale, S., & Hale, D. (2008). Rapunzel’s revenge. N. Hale, (Illus.). New York, NY: Bloomsbury. ISBN: 1-59990-288-5. 144 pp.
Rapunzel is raised in a villa believing Mother Gothel is her mother. One day, Rapunzel sees what is on the other side of the villa’s walls and learns that her real mother is a slave in Mother Gothel’s mines. When Rapunzel attempts to confront Mother Gothel about the matter, she is locked up in a tower. Years pass and Rapunzel’s hair grows long enough to help her escape from the tower. Once she escapes, she is on a quest to free her real mother and have revenge on Mother Gothel.
Critical Analysis
Although this is a retelling of a classic fairy tale, Rapunzel’s journey, adventures, and motives are unique to this story. The shell of the traditional Rapunzel story is the same, but the telling is so unique that the reader does not know what will happen next and is anxious to learn whether Rapunzel will accomplish her goal. This novel is a western, action adventure, comedy, and there is even love. However, it is mostly a western and may not appeal to those who do not like westerns. Despite my tendency to stay away from westerns, I appreciate this unique spin on a fairy tale; the blending of fairy tales with Jack, his beans, and his goose; and the strong female protagonist.
The illustrations are beautifully drawn and action packed. I love how creative use of dialog bubbles portrays more than one person talking at once. The colors are rich and have a southwestern feel. Also, the varying sizes of the boxes complement and add interest to the story.
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