ZelSummary: "Based on the fairy tale Rapunzel, the story is told in alternating chapters from the point of view of Zel, her mother, and the prince, and delves into the psychological motivation of the characters."
Strengths: This novel puts a definite twist on the story of Rapunzel by adding a variety of perspectives, enhancing the readers' insight into the events of the story. I thought that the story was very well written with much imagination. This is a story to which some students can relate if they feel they have an overbearing parent, feel suicidal or psychologically mad, feel trapped, or feel locked out of love. The nature of the story also urges the reader to continue reading to find out what will happen. For an appropriate age group and with guidance, this book can provide insight into the psychology and thoughts of different characters.
Concerns: This book had a dark and morose feel, with many religious, suicidal, and sexual overtones. I did not personally care for the change in tenses throughout the story because it seemed to put more emphasis on Mother, who was presented in first person and less emphasis on the Zel and Count Konrad, who were presented in third person.
Classroom Use/Other Comments: This book would only be appropriate for older students, at least eighth grade or high school, depending on the maturity of the children. This story could be used as an individual reading activity or involve lessons on writing from different perspectives and points of view, as well as lessons on the difference between first and third person. Parents could possibly read this story with their older children to bring up conversations on feeling protective or on suicidal or sexual feelings.
Our library places this book in the YA collection, for readers 13-17, and I agree with you that the concerns are definitely more appropriate for these older readers. An interesting take on the story.
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