Once Upon a Marigold

My 12-year-old told me over and over again, “Mom, you need to read Once Upon a Marigold!”

When she checked it out, for the third time, I decided to see what she was so excited about.

And I’m glad I did. Once Upon a Marigold by Jean Ferris is a delightful read – a funny, somewhat unpredictable, and hilarious (did I already say that?) fairy tale.

Edric, out hunting and gathering for discarded items in the forest, finds a boy. This little boy is determined to not be found by his family, and decides to live with Edric, much to his consternation. But they get used to each other, and Christian (the boy) has the freedom to make messes and inventions, while trying to figure out what Ed means by his mixed-up sayings.

For example, “sometimes you have to take the bear by the horns.” Or, “Let’s get this show on the ball.”

In every fairy tale, there has to be a princess, and Marigold is one. Christian spots her on the castle wall while using the telescope he created. One day, he decides to start corresponding with her, using the pigeons he’s trained to carry messages. She responds, and they start ‘p-mailing’ each other.

Of course, Christian falls in love; Marigold does too. They endure several adventures, and Christian’s unknown identity is revealed.

Recommended for ages 8 and up, depending upon their reading level. I plan to read this book a loud to my 8-year-old and 10-year-old, because I know they’ll enjoy it.