Bibliography
Ferris, J. (2002). Once upon a marigold. New York: Harcourt Books.
266 pages
Plot
As a young boy, Christian ran away from home into the forest where he found Edrick a troll. Adopting him, Edrick taught Christian all he new about life, the forest, and survival. Christian though has a mind of his own, his head in the clouds creating inventions. However, lately, Edrick has caught Christian using a telescope to watch the young princess, Marigold. Christian has even begun a pigeon correspondence with her! When Edrick explains to Christian that it is time for him to grow up, Christian does the unexpected and gets a job in the castle. But trouble is brewing for Christian as Marigold’s mother the queen wants her to be married off as soon as possible.
Review
Ferris’ novel is a humorous look at the fairy tale genre. Using all sorts of stereotypes, and common plot lines, Once Upon a Marigold is a fun and witty look at fantasy. Ferris leaves nothing out in her rags to riches story including a senile king, a conniving queen, stupid suitors, miracles, tooth fairies, trolls, and true love. Similar in style to The Princess Bride, Once Upon a Marigold is fun and exciting. This book shows readers that not all books are meant to be taken seriously, that pleasure reads are just that. While some readers might not like this style of writing, or the stereotypes included, it should be taken with a grain of salt. Or as Edrick might say, a grain of Pepper.
Genre
Humor
Reading Level/Interest Level
This novel would appeal to readers in 4th-7th grade.
Similar Content
Ella Enchanted by Gail Carson Levine
Which Witch by Eva Ibbotson
Other works by Jean Ferris
Personal thoughts
Having read and enjoyed Love Among the Walnuts, I was excited to read Once Upon A Marigold. I found the novel very fun and entertaining.
Subjects/themes
Love
Fairy Tales
Adoption
Royalty
Awards
ALA’s Best Book for Young Adults
Series information
Ferris wrote a sequel entitled Twice Upon a Marigold.
Character names/descriptions
Christian: A boy raised by a troll in the forest who is best friends with Marigold.
Marigold: The princess of the kingdom across the river, does not want to marry any of her potential suitors.
Edrick: Christian’s foster father and a troll.
Queen Olympia: Jealous of her daughter and the potential for her to rule, plots to marry her off.
Annotation
Part Comedy, part love story, part everthing-but-the kitchen-sink. (On cover).
Ferris, J. (2002). Once upon a marigold. New York: Harcourt Books.
266 pages
Plot
As a young boy, Christian ran away from home into the forest where he found Edrick a troll. Adopting him, Edrick taught Christian all he new about life, the forest, and survival. Christian though has a mind of his own, his head in the clouds creating inventions. However, lately, Edrick has caught Christian using a telescope to watch the young princess, Marigold. Christian has even begun a pigeon correspondence with her! When Edrick explains to Christian that it is time for him to grow up, Christian does the unexpected and gets a job in the castle. But trouble is brewing for Christian as Marigold’s mother the queen wants her to be married off as soon as possible.
Review
Ferris’ novel is a humorous look at the fairy tale genre. Using all sorts of stereotypes, and common plot lines, Once Upon a Marigold is a fun and witty look at fantasy. Ferris leaves nothing out in her rags to riches story including a senile king, a conniving queen, stupid suitors, miracles, tooth fairies, trolls, and true love. Similar in style to The Princess Bride, Once Upon a Marigold is fun and exciting. This book shows readers that not all books are meant to be taken seriously, that pleasure reads are just that. While some readers might not like this style of writing, or the stereotypes included, it should be taken with a grain of salt. Or as Edrick might say, a grain of Pepper.
Genre
Humor
Reading Level/Interest Level
This novel would appeal to readers in 4th-7th grade.
Similar Content
Ella Enchanted by Gail Carson Levine
Which Witch by Eva Ibbotson
Other works by Jean Ferris
Personal thoughts
Having read and enjoyed Love Among the Walnuts, I was excited to read Once Upon A Marigold. I found the novel very fun and entertaining.
Subjects/themes
Love
Fairy Tales
Adoption
Royalty
Awards
ALA’s Best Book for Young Adults
Series information
Ferris wrote a sequel entitled Twice Upon a Marigold.
Character names/descriptions
Christian: A boy raised by a troll in the forest who is best friends with Marigold.
Marigold: The princess of the kingdom across the river, does not want to marry any of her potential suitors.
Edrick: Christian’s foster father and a troll.
Queen Olympia: Jealous of her daughter and the potential for her to rule, plots to marry her off.
Annotation
Part Comedy, part love story, part everthing-but-the kitchen-sink. (On cover).
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