born to rule

Title: Born to Rule

Author: Kathryn Lasky

Date Finished: May 23, 2011

Personal Book Count: 21 out of 100

Rating: 3.5 out of 5

Genre/ Subject: middle grade fiction

First Line: It was Gilly, the lady’s maid, who saw them first.

Why did I pick this book?: saw an ebook copy on my library’s web site. Was attracted to the idea of a princess camp.

Summary and Review: taken from goodreads.com-

“Camp Princess is just like any other summer camp. Okay, so it's not exactly summer, since the magical kingdom of Palacyndra has seasons that change at the drop of a tiara. And it's not exactly camp, since the princesses stay in fully furnished turrets, complete with chambermaids. But it is a chance to get away from home and enjoy activities such as arts and crafts (with diamonds, of course) and moat swimming (bathing tiara required!). It's a place where Princess Alicia makes real friends, Princesses Kristen and Gunder-snap. And for Alicia, Camp Princess becomes much more. A place of mystery. Her turret seems to be haunted, and the golden bird that she captured for the songbird contest refuses to sing a note! It's all utterly frustrating until one shadowy night, when Alicia feels a ghostly presence in her room and begins to discover a destiny far more exciting than anything she could have imagined.”

This was an easy read, and an amusing way to pass a bit of time. This story had lots of little storylines running through it, as well as the main one. I am attracted to the idea of ‘camp’, and all the little details the author chose to add. Nothing rankles me more than a story with a theme, but then it has no details to support it. Like it could be set anywhere, anytime. I think it is the thought that an author puts in that makes all the difference. I like that the princess’s sleep in turrets, take classes in everything from swimming to make-up to embroidery. They hunt and train songbirds. Their camp ‘councilors’ are other princesses, duchesses and other nobility. They interact with ghosts and witches. Even the camp is located in a magical place, where seasons can last hours or days. It is obvious the author took lots of time and care crafting this story. Even the diversity of the princess’s and the clique feel was an interesting touch, and added some realism. After all, isn’t that what everyone wants, is to be accepted? I would recommend this book to middle grade girls, especially those who like fantasy.

Agree? Disagree? Recommendations? Any insights, suggestions, or comments on the book or format, or blog at all are most welcome. If you have read this and/ or review it yourself, please let me know. Can you think of any books like this? Give me a recommendation! =D