Mirror Mirror

Gregory Maguire

Background.

Well, Gregory Maguire's legacy certainly has not ended with Wicked. He continues to provide a fresh, inventive take on many of our most celebrated fairytales. One unique aspect of several of his works is that he places the characters in a particular historical setting and context. For example, Confessions of an Ugly Stepsister gives the story Cinderella a makeover in 17th century Holland, while Mirror Mirror takes a stab at Snow White in 16th century Italy. As always, his books prove to be a pleasure to read and a difficulty to put down.

What the back cover tells you.

"The year is 1502, and seven-year-old Bianca de Nevada lives perched high above the rolling hills and valleys of Tuscany and Umbria at Montefiore, the farm of her beloved father, Don Vicente. But one day a noble entourage makes its way up the winding slopes to the farm--and the world comes to Montefiore. In the presence of Cesare Borgia and his sister, the lovely and vain Lucrezia--decadent children of a wicked pope--no one can claim innocence for very long. When Borgia sends Don Vicente on a years-long quest, he leaves Bianca under the care--so to speak--of Lucrezia. She plots a dire fate for the young girl in the woods below the farm, but in the dark forest salvation can be found as well..."

"A lyrical work of stunning creative stunning creative vision, Mirror Mirror gives fresh life to the classic story of Snow White--and has a truth and beauty all its own."

What I can tell you.

Mirror Mirror mixes magic and history to create a beautiful story of intrigue, love, loss, and lust. History buffs will appreciate the relevant historical context while those who love fantasy and drama will  enjoy the electric story line. This book is an attention grabber with a style all its own.