A Review of The Princess Bride: A Fairytale for All Ages
Ah, The Princess Bride! When I first picked up this whimsical tale by William Goldman, I had no idea I was in for a delightful journey that would tickle my funny bone and tug at my heartstrings. As someone who runs a BookTube channel dedicated to all things fantasy and sci-fi, this classic popped up on my radar so often that I could no longer resist its allure. It felt as though I had stumbled upon a treasure chest full of humor, adventure, and romance thanks to its cheeky title: The Princess Bride: S. Morgenstern’s Classic Tale of True Love and High Adventure: The “Good Parts” Version Abridged by William Goldman. Quite the mouthful, right? But therein lies the genius!
Let’s dive into why this book stands so tall amongst giants. First off, it plays with the very notion of storytelling. Goldman invents S. Morgenstern as a fictional author of the “real” version—a comedic layer that adds depth to the narrative. I chuckled through Goldman’s commentary as he recounts his own life, mixing fact and fiction with a light-hearted flair. He gets sick, and his father reads him this abridged version of the story, skipping the tedious bits about Florentine history. That’s where the magic lies—Goldman shares with us the “good parts,” allowing us to revel in the rich adventure without the distractions.
As the story unfolds, we’re introduced to memorable characters like Westley, Buttercup, Fezzik, and the self-proclaimed genius Vizzini, each with compelling backstories woven into the fabric of the narrative. You might find it hard to believe, but my heart melted for Fezzik when his obsession with rhyming and his gentle nature are revealed. Just imagine a giant who’s not only formidable but endearing!
Goldman’s writing style is truly a treasure; his humor is razor-sharp yet whimsical. I loved his use of parentheticals, humorously calling attention to the absurdity of certain situations. Lines like, “(This was after mirrors)” had me in stitches! The additional commentary adds a layer of engagement—sometimes I felt as if Goldman was sitting right next to me, sharing inside jokes.
Of course, I can’t help but mention the brilliance of the film adaptation. While I’ve watched it countless times and can quote almost every line, the book offers so much more insight into the characters’ psyches. The scenes get expanded, allowing us to understand Inigo’s vendetta and Fezzik’s struggles to endear himself to crowds. It’s like exploring a beloved map layered with new paths.
However, I must address the extra short story, “Buttercup’s Baby,” included in some editions. If I’m being honest, I wasn’t a fan. It felt unnecessary and muddled the purity of the original tale. Sometimes, it’s okay to leave the magic of a story untouched.
To wrap things up, I wholeheartedly give The Princess Bride 5 out of 5 stars—this wasn’t even a debate for me! It’s a story for anyone who loves adventure, wit, and romance wrapped in layers of humor. Whether you’re revisiting it or experiencing it for the first time, you’ll find a narrative that speaks to the essence of imagination and fairy-tale magic. So, grab a copy and prepare for an enchanting ride!
And while you’re here, don’t forget to check out my BookTube channel for more whimsical tales, epic adventures, and maybe a few hidden gems—because every reader deserves to connect with a story that feels like home.