Adventure

A vivid, breathtaking adventure that is stunningly illustrated. Not only that, but the story is everything you would ever want. It's a story of an independent woman who meets an independent man and, because life can't be perfect, who both come into contact with an independent giant. If you can pick it up somewhere, I highly recommend it. ( )

Brave Margaret is an Irish folktale that has been retold by authors and storytellers. Margaret, the main character, lives a simple live raising cows on a country farm. One day she encounters a prince named Simon who is seeking supplies for a long journey he is preparing for. Margaret offers him her cows in exchange to join his crew. Although he is hesitant, he agrees and the two fall in love. During a great sea storm and a battle with a sea serpent, they are separated. Margaret seeks shelter and solace from an older woman living in the forest. Inside her house is a beautiful sword and ring that belong to the one destined to defeat the giant who took the woman's property. To her surprise, Margaret is reunited with Simon, and he vows to destroy the giant to set Margaret free. After his failed attempt, Margaret discovers the ring fits her perfectly and realizes she is destined for this task. She sets off and defeats the giant, allowing the woman to return home. She uses her healing water to revive Simon in order to thank Margaret. The two marry and live a happy life together.

I thought this tale was a beautiful story of feminism, and it is one that I would love to read to my class. It reminds me of an article I read the other day that mentioned how men are featured more as heroes versus women being seen as heroines. I think this story would be a great way to implement female leads into a classroom. ( )

This is an Irish folktale about a heroine named Margaret who sets off in search of adventure. Great example of a strong female lead. I love when authors write about women who save men. Why is this such a strange concept? The whole damsel in distress thing bugs me. This would be a great book for a folklore unit. I would also use this to discuss theme (women can be heroes too!) and using context clues to figure out what words mean (words like kine). The UNO Library search lists this book as an interest level of K-3 but I'm not sure I agreed with that. I'd use it all the way to high school. ( )

It is exciting to see a folk tale with a woman hero. One who was chosen to be the champion over the prince himself. And the illustrations help to draw you into every fight scene. I love the fact that this is an Irish tale. ( )