Audiobook Review: Fairest by Gail Carson Levine

Audible Audio Edition

Listening Length: 8 hours and 6 minutes

Program Type: Audiobook

Version: Unabridged

Publisher: Full Cast Audio Audible.com

Release Date: November 1, 2007

Age Range: 10 and up

Series: Enchanted #3

Source: Bought

My Rating: 4 of 5 stars

About the Book:

Aza is far from beautiful. With pale skin and blood-red lips (not to mention ungainly size), she is seen as odd, at best. But Aza does have one blessing: a voice of astonishing beauty. In Ayortha, where singing is the main mode of communication, this gift is no small thing, and soon Aza finds herself rising at court. But, as she will discover, unexpected good fortune can also bring unexpected danger.

Funny and moving, wise as well as uplifting, Fairest represents New York Times best-selling author Gail Carson Levine at her finest.

Composer-director Todd Hobin has crafted melodies for all the story's lyrics and songs, resulting in a unique listening experience - an audiobook that has as much original music as a Broadway show!

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About the Author:

Gail Carson Levine grew up in New York City and began writing seriously in 1987. Her first book for children, Ella Enchanted, was a 1998 Newbery Honor Book. Levine's other books include Fairest; Dave at Night, an ALA Notable Book and Best Book for Young Adults; The Wish; The Two Princesses of Bamarre; and the six Princess Tales books. She is also the author of the nonfiction book Writing Magic: Creating Stories That Fly and the picture book Betsy Who Cried Wolf, illustrated by Scott Nash. Gail, her husband, David, and their Airedale, Baxter, live in a 1790 farmhouse in the Hudson River Valley of New York State.

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My Thoughts:

I listened to the full cast audio book. I will be honest in saying that I spaced out during lots of the singing. The singers were very dramatic and sometimes difficult to understand.  Besides that, I absolutely loved the book!

I loved the way prince Igori fell in love with Asa for the right reasons and in spite of her appearance. I also liked the way Asa didn't suddenly love herself completely once Igori confessed his feelings. She knew it would take some time for her to accept herself, but she was willing to try, and that seemed like a realistic response from her.

This is my second Gail Carson Levine book that I've listened to and I really like her work. Her books are clean and have a good message tucked inside. They are especially good for young girls, ages 9 and up.

BONUS: If you buy the Kindle version, you can get the Audible version for $1.49.

FOUR STARS