Be aware that there is a significant difference between the reviews and recommendations on this blog. Just because I review a book, TV show, or movie does not mean I recommend it. I am simply analyzing the work and giving my honest opinion of it, as well as providing key points such as the plot summary, age appropriateness (if the reader should choose to read or watch it), and anything else that's noteworthy.
The Princess Bride by William Goldman is one of the most unique books ever published. Many adore the movie but the book also has a huge fandom. Today I review this fantasy-adventure story.
Plot Summary
Buttercup is one of the most beautiful girls in the world and attracts all the boys in her village. But she is disgusted with all of them except Westley, her father's farm boy. When they declare their love for each other, Westley sets out for America to make his fortune and Buttercup works to become worthy of her Westley.
When Westley is reported dead, Buttercup accepts bloodthirsty Prince Humperdinck's hand in marriage even though she does not love him. Then she is kidnapped, only to be rescued by Westley (who managed not to die); but Prince Humperdinck is not about to give up his bride and the couple's troubles have only just begun. It will take the help of their friends Fezzik the giant, vengeful Inigo Montoya, and the wonder man Miracle Max to get the best of the prince and his cohorts.
When Westley is reported dead, Buttercup accepts bloodthirsty Prince Humperdinck's hand in marriage even though she does not love him. Then she is kidnapped, only to be rescued by Westley (who managed not to die); but Prince Humperdinck is not about to give up his bride and the couple's troubles have only just begun. It will take the help of their friends Fezzik the giant, vengeful Inigo Montoya, and the wonder man Miracle Max to get the best of the prince and his cohorts.
Pros and Cons
The book, at its heart, is a comedy. The author's tone is satirical and sarcastic and the dialogue is full of dry humor. The fantasy aspect is not cliche; in fact, other than unknown lands, miracle men, and royalty, there is very little actual magic. There is plenty of adventure and action, as well as memorable characters.
At times the author interrupts the story to impose his thoughts or a bit of history, which some might find irritating. It reads as if he's having a conversation with the reader. There is a scene when Westley remarks on Buttercup's breasts. At one point a character gets stabbed by a dagger and the details might be disturbing for some.
One of the most confusing things about the book is that William Goldman pretended that this is an abridged work. He wrote it as if it was adapted from a book by S. Morgenstern (also a fictional historian). For those who pick up the book and freak out, thinking they've bought the abridged copy, don't worry! There is no "unabridged" copy of The Princess Bride.
At times the author interrupts the story to impose his thoughts or a bit of history, which some might find irritating. It reads as if he's having a conversation with the reader. There is a scene when Westley remarks on Buttercup's breasts. At one point a character gets stabbed by a dagger and the details might be disturbing for some.
One of the most confusing things about the book is that William Goldman pretended that this is an abridged work. He wrote it as if it was adapted from a book by S. Morgenstern (also a fictional historian). For those who pick up the book and freak out, thinking they've bought the abridged copy, don't worry! There is no "unabridged" copy of The Princess Bride.
Notes
Some of the books include a short story called Buttercup's Baby (the supposed first chapter of the long lost sequel by S. Morgenstern). This story contains a innuendo about lovemaking and doesn't give us a satisfactory conclusion of the character's stories, but other than that it's clean.
The book is best for teenagers and adults.
The book is best for teenagers and adults.
For those of you who have read The Princess Bride, what did you think of it? Tell me in the comments below!
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1 Comment
I LOVE this book! A timeless classic that I find very enjoyable and funny all at the same time.
nThe one thing though; there are a few inappropriate remarks and one or two bad words.
nBut over all, this book is a hit and the movie is just as close!
nEnjoy!