Stunning Simplicity
"The people should have been proud to have Raphael as their next king, but instead they were afraid."
Hereby are we introduced to the spoiled prince, Raphel.
As his father, the old king, lies dying, he proclaims a blessing upon Raphel, commanding that the prince not wear the royal crown until he, "...marry a woman...equal in beauty and intelligence and wealth."
As in all good fairy tales, Raphel disdains his father's blessing." ... [This] is a curse! Where shall I find a princess who is equal to me...?" With that said, he oppresses the kingdom, bringing to naught the endeavors of his good father.
In lovely contrast, the fair protaginist, Rosamund, is willing to sacrifice herself for her friends.
By the helping paw of a wise wolf, Rosaumund arrives at the palace on the last day of the year, prepared to take to task her 'equal'.
The rest is sheer magic!
Katherine Paterson, author of "Jacob Have I Loved" and most recently well known, "The Bridge to Terabitha", stuns the reader with this beautifully simple tale of friendship, self-sacrifice, and redemption.
As a second grade teacher, it was my yearly habit to dedicate a day of reading and discussing this book with my class. Their youthful ability to assimilate the story's enduring theme of friendship beyond boundaries always made it an enjoyable experience.
Coupled with Vladimir Vagin's exquisite illustrations, it is a treat you must not deny yourself or the children around you.
