The Ogre of Oglefort (review)

Abstract

Reviewed by: The Ogre of Oglefort Kate Quealy-Gainer Ibbotson, Eva . The Ogre of Oglefort; illus. by Lisa K. Weber. Dutton, 2011. [224p]. ISBN 978-0-525-42382-9 $16.99 Reviewed from galleys R Gr. 4-6. At the annual Summer Meeting of Unusual Creatures, a ragtag band of heroes is formed when the Norns (the Fates) charge an old swamp Hag, an angry troll, a hapless wizard, and one nonmagical boy with the task of rescuing Princess Mirella from the evil Ogre of Oglefort. Unfortunately, the Norns don't have the story right: the princess isn't trapped by the Ogre but is rather stubbornly staying at his castle until he grants her wish of being a bird so she can escape an arranged marriage. The Ogre, a vegetarian who has been turning people into animals for years instead of eating them, has suffered a nervous breakdown and simply refuses Mirella's request. To their credit, when the heroes show up to bravely complete their task only to be met with a sniveling ogre and a spoiled princess, the group takes matters into their own hands, tending to the Ogre, convincing Mirella that life as a bird may not be the answer, and turning the Ogre's neglected land into a veritable Garden of Eden. Alas, reality soon finds its way in, and the heroes must defend their paradise from attacks by goons sent by both the Norns and Mirella's royal intended. Magical creatures abound in this effervescent fairy tale that effectively merges classic tropes with modern sensibilities. The late author's knack for vivid language and colorful imagery completes the picture, while messages about respect—for both oneself and one's environment—are subtly integrated without feeling forced. Fans of Ella Enchanted (BCCB 5/97) and the like will relish this straightforward tale of good, bad, and happy endings. Final illustrations not seen. [End Page 523] Copyright © 2011 The Board of Trustees of the University of Illinois