Degrees of Affection

Title: The Princess and the Goblin

Author: George MacDonald

Narrator: Brooke Heldman

Length: 5.25 hours

Unabridged

Publisher: Oasis Audio

Released: 11/11/14

Rating: 4 Stars

I can't remember the first time I read the Princess and the Goblin but I do remember my Grandparents introduced me to it with a lovely book illustrated by Linda Hill Griffith. The pictures are gorgeous and remain such a part of my memories of this book.

So I'll admit, the cover of this audiobook - the same as the version I love - was what drew me. But the narration was what remained in my memory by the end. Brook Heldman did a great job of both handling the book's slightly oddly written text and providing good characters voices. Princess Irene was my favorite but Curdie was a close second. I particularly loved the times when he let loose with his weaponized rhymes. Irene's Great, great, great (huge) Grandmother was the only voice I was not completely sold on and that was personal preference. I've always heard her voice not as an old woman but young to match her ageless face. But even that I grew to like in time.

Once there was a goblin

Living in a hole;

Busy he was cobblin'

A shoe without a sole

Irene is a princess of a far land who lives away from her King Papa in a house in the country. Unknown to her, the staff ensure she is in well before night as the Cobbs or Goblins who live in the area have a hatred of above ground people, particularly the royal family. But events around her draw her in as her magical many greats Grandmother helps her prepare and a miner boy named Curdie helps her. This is a book where the magical elements are not emphasized, simply there enhancing the story.

I'll confess, I drew this audiobook out as I enjoyed visiting in a new way remembered and beloved fictional characters.

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I received a copy of this audiobook from the publisher through Audiobook Jukebox; the opinions are my own.