Fairy Dust and the Quest for the Egg

I had just finished reading the most amazing book to my two daughters (6 and 3) and had to write a quick review of it. The book is 'Fairy Dust and the Quest for the Egg' by Gail Carson Levine. It was published back in September of 2005, and currently it is available in hardcover, paperback and audio CD. We borrowed our copy from the library but I can foresee us buying this book.

The story begins when a new fairy without a special talent, Prilla, comes to Never Land and she tries to find her purpose. A hurricane strikes the island and the magical egg that keeps everyone from aging breaks during the storm. It is up to a team of fairies to restore the egg and save the day.

This book really expands the character and world of Tinker Bell from the Peter Pan story and movie from the 1950s. The author, Gail, does amazing job at expanding the mythology of the Disney Fairies that goes beyond their natural commercial appeal. We find out where the dust comes from that gives the fairies flight. That fairies are at risk of dying if children stop believing in them. And that there is a dragon that lives on the fabled Never Land.

I am a huge fan of the television series LOST and my girls are a little too young to be introduced to that show. So imagine my delight when in the book, the island is revealed to be a character too with LOST-like qualities. It decides who gets to come to its shores and it moves and morphs to help our heroes on their quest. Plus anyone who is a fan of the Desmond episode 'The Constant' from season four will have a special appreciation for Prilla. (I'm stretching it a bit with that example.)

Because it is about fairies, this book is primarily targeted towards a younger female audience. But I found it comparable to stories like The Hobbit or Lord of the Rings so I think a lot of Dads would enjoy this story. Characters are thrown together to solve a problem while facing impossible challenges and making personal sacrifices. It is a basic premise that works wonderfully in this story.

I'm also excited to learn that there is a sequel, "Fairy Haven and the Quest for the Wand" by the same author. The girls and I have found that book at the library and are currently reading it. I'll let you know if it lives up to the first book.

What books have you read to your kids that you were surprised you really enjoyed?