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Faerie Tales from the White Forest #1
Brigitta of the White Forest
Brigitta is a young Water Faerie from the village-nest of Tiragarrow. She s confused, moody, and anxious about going through The Change as she doesn t see how destiny markings on her wings should determine her life s path. A few days before the annual Festival of the Elements, Brigitta is flying an errand with Himalette, her tag-a-long sister, when a mysterious curse turns everyone in the White Forest to stone -- except for the two of them. The sisters have no idea why they were not cursed, but they do know if they don t turn everyone back in time for the festival rituals, the Hourglass of Protection will run out and so will its protective field around the forest. With no one in their forest left to help them, they must leave the protected realm to seek an exiled faerie they have only heard about in ancient tales. With assistance from a few allies they make along the journey, the girls find their way to Dead Mountain in search of the banished faerie. When they arrive, they find the help they are looking for, but soon discover that things are not what they seem. Running out of time, Brigitta and Himalette must use their wits to battle evil in order to lift the curse and save their forest. A book for those who enjoy fantasy adventure, Brigitta of the White Forest offers a new twist on the faerie tales so loved by young readers.
220 pages, Paperback
First published May 15, 2010
2 people are currently reading
515 people want to read
About the author
Danika Dinsmore
26 books84 followersSHORTSKY:
Danika Dinsmore is an award-winning writer, spokenword artist, and educator living on the Sunshine Coast of British Columbia.
LONGSKY:
Danika currently works and plays in literary and speculative fiction with an emphasis on juvenile and young adult literature. She is author of several books of poetry, a spokenword CD, and the Faerie Tales from the White Forest middle grade fantasy series. She also writes short stories that blur the lines between speculative and literary fiction.
A seasoned spokenword artist, Danika has performed at hundreds of events such as Faerieworlds in Eugene, OR and Bumbershoot in Seattle, WA. She lives in British Columbia and teaches creative writing and world-building as a visiting writer in the schools and at festivals and conferences across North America.
Find her at danikadinsmore.com
Danika Dinsmore is an award-winning writer, spokenword artist, and educator living on the Sunshine Coast of British Columbia.
LONGSKY:
Danika currently works and plays in literary and speculative fiction with an emphasis on juvenile and young adult literature. She is author of several books of poetry, a spokenword CD, and the Faerie Tales from the White Forest middle grade fantasy series. She also writes short stories that blur the lines between speculative and literary fiction.
A seasoned spokenword artist, Danika has performed at hundreds of events such as Faerieworlds in Eugene, OR and Bumbershoot in Seattle, WA. She lives in British Columbia and teaches creative writing and world-building as a visiting writer in the schools and at festivals and conferences across North America.
Find her at danikadinsmore.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
February 9, 2024
I really enjoyed this fantasy fairy adventure. I love the characters and the world the author created. This book was so well written and had all the makings of a great classic tale. I can’t wait to read the rest of the series.
December 17, 2015
Well, since I'm the author of this book, I find it hard to be objective about it.
I certainly enjoyed writing it, I love spending time with my characters and in my imaginary world, and I'm tickled any time someone new reads it . . . especially if they are not a friend or family member!
I certainly enjoyed writing it, I love spending time with my characters and in my imaginary world, and I'm tickled any time someone new reads it . . . especially if they are not a friend or family member!
April 16, 2012
Teen fairy Brigitta watches her friends “change” as their wings receive the markings of their destinies. Each fairy is born into one of the four elements, and each fairy matures to serve the forest in a way that perfectly complements their nature—destiny aligned with free-will to build a perfect society. But Brigitta doesn’t know what she wants, and her wing markings haven’t yet begun to tell her. What she doesn’t want is pretty clear to her though. She'd rather not spend her life chasing, or rather babysitting, her little sister.
When disaster strikes the White Forest, Brigitta and her sister are accidentally spared and find themselves on a quest to save the world. The story’s pleasingly told and satisfyingly complete. Though this is the first in a series, Faerie Tales from the White Forest, there’s no feeling of being teased into reading more. The mythology is nicely comprehensive, the characters enjoyably three-dimensional, and the plot well-drawn and well-told.
Fairy wings become as real as any other limb, and magic is just a fact of life, as strange allies test Brigitta’s trust and self-confidence. Stories told may not be as complete as she’s always imagined. And the truth about evil might be as multi-faceted as evil itself. There’s a pleasing humor to the characters and conversations, a natural humanity to Brigitta and her sister, and an enjoyable sense of right and wrong in the way the story plays out. Add musical writing, vivid descriptions, and happy imagination, and this will be a series I’ll happily follow. Children’s fiction with plenty of breadth and depth, ready to captivate fantasy lovers of all ages.
Disclosure: I received a free ecopy of this novel from Lightning Book Promotions in exchange for my honest review.
When disaster strikes the White Forest, Brigitta and her sister are accidentally spared and find themselves on a quest to save the world. The story’s pleasingly told and satisfyingly complete. Though this is the first in a series, Faerie Tales from the White Forest, there’s no feeling of being teased into reading more. The mythology is nicely comprehensive, the characters enjoyably three-dimensional, and the plot well-drawn and well-told.
Fairy wings become as real as any other limb, and magic is just a fact of life, as strange allies test Brigitta’s trust and self-confidence. Stories told may not be as complete as she’s always imagined. And the truth about evil might be as multi-faceted as evil itself. There’s a pleasing humor to the characters and conversations, a natural humanity to Brigitta and her sister, and an enjoyable sense of right and wrong in the way the story plays out. Add musical writing, vivid descriptions, and happy imagination, and this will be a series I’ll happily follow. Children’s fiction with plenty of breadth and depth, ready to captivate fantasy lovers of all ages.
Disclosure: I received a free ecopy of this novel from Lightning Book Promotions in exchange for my honest review.
July 17, 2014
Danika Dinsmore has created an amazing world in Brigitta of the White Forest. It's not an easy thing to start from scratch when world building, but Dinsmore appears to do so effortlessly, giving life to brand new creatures and settings that the reader is quickly emersed in. The White Forest is home to clans of elemental faeries, including our young heroine Brigitta. Along with her young sister, Brigitta finds herself tasked with saving the Forest and her people, embarking on an adventure she never expected or wanted but one she more than lives up to, finding an inner strength she didn't know existed within her. Brigitta is a wonderful role model for young girls, demonstrating that you can overcome adversity even when things seem hopeless. I highly recommend this book for children of all ages and would happily have copies in my second grade classroom.
August 31, 2010
I really enjoyed this book. It would be a great read for middle graders. The main character and her sister are delightful characters and the bond between sisters is well written. I recommend it for those young girls ages 8-12 who like fairies and a little adventure along with a little of the battle of good and evil. I'm not sure boys would find this of interest except for the array of large frogs and caterpillars add spice to the story. A thouroughly enjoyable journey for the young and the young at heart.
Christina Weigand
http://www.weigandchris.com
Christina Weigand
http://www.weigandchris.com
January 12, 2015
A charming story of sisters and growing up and discovering the big secrets of the older generation.
August 31, 2018
This book is lovely. I’m not much into fantasy but loved Brigitta of the White Forest. It introduces the young faerie, Brigitta, who is the last one of her friends to receive her destiny mark, a special marking on faerie wings. Accompanied by her younger sister, Himalette, Brigitta is forced to leave protection of her home, the White Forest to seek help from a banished faerie living in Dead Mountain after a mysterious curse turns all the inhabitants of White Forest to stone. Their journey is dangerous and they must seek help of some dubious creatures in order to succeed. What follows is a journey full of adventure, action, courage, and scary beasts.
The starting is bit slow, but after a few chapters the story picks up the pace and is hard to put down after that. I’m one of those people who usually do not like to read young adult or children’s literature. But I admit, I thoroughly enjoyed Brigitta of the White forest. I’m sure children would really love this book. The author has this wonderful talent to get to children’s level and imagine things.
Brigitta is a great role model for the young girls. She’s courageous, even though she doesn’t realize it. Unaware of her inner strength, she faces the danger and sets on to save her home, her family, and all of the faerie realm.
The interaction between the sisters is a delight to read. Brigitta is a typical older sister, always trying to keep Himalette, the little one out of trouble. I loved Minq’s character: the things he can do with his ears is hilarious. All the other characters are lovely as well. The setting is beautiful though it doesn’t come much alive. The biggest strength of Dinsmore is writing is her dialogue delivery. It flows naturally. The interactions between the characters are smooth.
Overall, a delightful read.
Definitely recommend to all the children (up to 11-12 yrs).
The starting is bit slow, but after a few chapters the story picks up the pace and is hard to put down after that. I’m one of those people who usually do not like to read young adult or children’s literature. But I admit, I thoroughly enjoyed Brigitta of the White forest. I’m sure children would really love this book. The author has this wonderful talent to get to children’s level and imagine things.
Brigitta is a great role model for the young girls. She’s courageous, even though she doesn’t realize it. Unaware of her inner strength, she faces the danger and sets on to save her home, her family, and all of the faerie realm.
The interaction between the sisters is a delight to read. Brigitta is a typical older sister, always trying to keep Himalette, the little one out of trouble. I loved Minq’s character: the things he can do with his ears is hilarious. All the other characters are lovely as well. The setting is beautiful though it doesn’t come much alive. The biggest strength of Dinsmore is writing is her dialogue delivery. It flows naturally. The interactions between the characters are smooth.
Overall, a delightful read.
Definitely recommend to all the children (up to 11-12 yrs).
December 10, 2023
I would like to start with a disclaimer as I have received, in fact, a digital copy for review from the author in exchange for a honest review. For those of you who are also unfamiliar with the book (and even those of you who actually did read it before), gather your wits, and let’s embark on this adventure!
Everyone who knows me knows I judge books by their cover a lot and pretty harshly sometimes so me picking up this book might come as a surprise. It was a pleasant surprise though, for the cover really doesn’t do the story justice. Just as I mentioned in the review on my blog, I wish there was a more colorful cover that sat better within the middle grade genre.
The second point I’m addressing in my full review is the title, which is fitting, since the main character lends her name to the novel. I, on the other hand, got a little distracted with all the other elements going on, which is why I’d have probably chosen a different one. This is because I feel the main theme is saving the White Forest rather than Brigitta’s development.
Then, there’s finally the characters and the plot, and I think you’ll love meeting them and get curious about their histories. In terms of plot, the story is quite linear, following one idea: after the White Forest is hit by a curse, Brigitta and her sister, who are the only ones left untouched by the evil doing of a mysterious character, go on an adventure to save their homeland. It is pretty straightforward and the storytelling pacing varies. Although a little slow in the beginning, it picks up once the girls are hit by the Blue Spell. The characters are also believable and the sisterly relationship is well written.
Overall, I would recommend the book to be shared with the adults too since some of the images are pretty epic.
Now briefly, what I liked:
- Himalette: she was so adorable and curious and even though she would sometimes annoy her older sister, her intentions were good; I actually do wonder what the future had in store for her;
- Gola and Minq: they were both shrouded in mystery;
- Gola’s eyes, those were pretty fun (though I’d have made them a little more important to her, to make her environment more challenging to navigate);
- the split between the fairies and the sprites, as well as that one spoilery one;
- the epic battles: the beasts, the flowers (okay, it was more of a conversation, but still!).
What I enjoyed less:
- Brigitta’s name didn’t seem to fit in with all the other fairies, though I took it more like a form of symbolism on the author’s part;
- the cover: I really wish there was a more aesthetic design or fitting for the story; it’d be cool if there was a new edition in the future with a fully illustrated cover instead of real life shadow silhouettes;
- the world building: I feel like there was just not enough of the lore, though this does get explained a little bit in a dictionary of sorts, at the end of the story, and it might be further explored in the other volumes;
- since the book takes on Brigitta’s name, I wish her character was explored a little more both through the plot and her inner thoughts (we saw her interacting with the other characters, but her suspicions of Gola or the evil fairy seemed a little too faint, if I may call it that).
Anyway, I’m curious what else the author has in store, so I’ll continue my reading with the omnibus edition. Finally, thank you once again to the author for sending me a copy of her book for review.
Full review: https://witsandtwists.wordpress.com/2...
Everyone who knows me knows I judge books by their cover a lot and pretty harshly sometimes so me picking up this book might come as a surprise. It was a pleasant surprise though, for the cover really doesn’t do the story justice. Just as I mentioned in the review on my blog, I wish there was a more colorful cover that sat better within the middle grade genre.
The second point I’m addressing in my full review is the title, which is fitting, since the main character lends her name to the novel. I, on the other hand, got a little distracted with all the other elements going on, which is why I’d have probably chosen a different one. This is because I feel the main theme is saving the White Forest rather than Brigitta’s development.
Then, there’s finally the characters and the plot, and I think you’ll love meeting them and get curious about their histories. In terms of plot, the story is quite linear, following one idea: after the White Forest is hit by a curse, Brigitta and her sister, who are the only ones left untouched by the evil doing of a mysterious character, go on an adventure to save their homeland. It is pretty straightforward and the storytelling pacing varies. Although a little slow in the beginning, it picks up once the girls are hit by the Blue Spell. The characters are also believable and the sisterly relationship is well written.
Overall, I would recommend the book to be shared with the adults too since some of the images are pretty epic.
Now briefly, what I liked:
- Himalette: she was so adorable and curious and even though she would sometimes annoy her older sister, her intentions were good; I actually do wonder what the future had in store for her;
- Gola and Minq: they were both shrouded in mystery;
- Gola’s eyes, those were pretty fun (though I’d have made them a little more important to her, to make her environment more challenging to navigate);
- the split between the fairies and the sprites, as well as that one spoilery one;
- the epic battles: the beasts, the flowers (okay, it was more of a conversation, but still!).
What I enjoyed less:
- Brigitta’s name didn’t seem to fit in with all the other fairies, though I took it more like a form of symbolism on the author’s part;
- the cover: I really wish there was a more aesthetic design or fitting for the story; it’d be cool if there was a new edition in the future with a fully illustrated cover instead of real life shadow silhouettes;
- the world building: I feel like there was just not enough of the lore, though this does get explained a little bit in a dictionary of sorts, at the end of the story, and it might be further explored in the other volumes;
- since the book takes on Brigitta’s name, I wish her character was explored a little more both through the plot and her inner thoughts (we saw her interacting with the other characters, but her suspicions of Gola or the evil fairy seemed a little too faint, if I may call it that).
Anyway, I’m curious what else the author has in store, so I’ll continue my reading with the omnibus edition. Finally, thank you once again to the author for sending me a copy of her book for review.
Full review: https://witsandtwists.wordpress.com/2...
November 19, 2016
Detailed and descriptive. The adventures of Brigitta and her sister Himalette took me on a fantastic journey.
March 21, 2021
This is a good, light, somewhat whimsical faery adventure. I'm definitely reading the rest of the series.
March 7, 2011
Brigitta and her younger sister, Himalette, are the only two faeries in their entire village of White Forest that have not been affected by a mysterious curse. During the preparations for the annual festival, every living being in the White Forest is turned to stone. Brigitta suddenly finds herself faced with a great challenge. She doesn’t know how to reverse the curse—or where to go for help—but she knows she must do something before the magical protection around her village is destroyed. With a great responsibility weighing on them, Brigitta and Himalette start their journey to Dead Mountain, where they hope to find help from the banished faerie, Hrathgar.
Along the way to Dead Mountain, Briggita and her sister encounter many dangers and make new friends. Together, Brigitta, Himalette, and Minq (a character that seems to resemble Jar Jar Binx from StarWars) head off to Dead Mountain. When they get there, they meet Hrathgar. Brigitta and Himalette are mesmerized by her kindness and can’t seem to understand why she has always been described as evil in the stories of faerie lore. Minq is not so easily impressed by Hrathgar’s innocent appearance. Through several twists and turns of events, the young faeries quickly learn that everything is not what it appears to be. Hrathgar is actually two separate people! Hrathgar Good (the faerie they first meet) and Hrathgar Evil (the faerie from the stories) are split personalities that share the curse from ancient times. Brigitta and her friends find themselves faced with an even more difficult challenge: they have to end the curse on their village and defeat Hrathgar Evil. But they aren’t sure if they are capable of destroying such a powerful faerie all by themselves.
I must start off saying that this book was great! Overall, it’s a great story about discovering your destiny and courage. Brigitta is brave, even though she doesn’t realize it. She’s determined to make things right in her village, so she sets off on what seems to be an impossible task. After everything is resolved, she is shocked to find that her destiny markings have finally revealed themselves. While she’s trying to understand the great change that she will face, she has a pretty deep conversation with Ondelle, the High Priestess of the faeries, about destiny. Ondelle shares some words of wisdom with Brigitta when she tells her “to allow all destinies to unfold as they should.” Brigitta tries to let this set in, but it’s still a hard concept for such a young faerie.
If you look at the book from a literary stand point--which I would be inclined to do with my students-- you can see several similarities to the classic struggles of good against evil in literature. There are evil villains with dubious plots and young heroes that have to discover their inner strengths and final destinies. Young Brigitta begins the story as a faerie that doesn’t fit in or understand her place in the faerie society. By the end of the book, she has an idea of what her future holds, even though she doesn’t think she can fulfill the high expectations. I couldn’t help but think of The Lord of the Rings as I read through this book, which isn’t a bad thing, considering I liked those books as well.
The plot is fast paced and starts quickly. You are sucked in to the story within the first two chapters. I was very thankful that it did not take long to develop the plot, and that the plot moved quickly throughout the book. The names were highly original, but I also found them a mouth full. If I had to read this book aloud, I might have some difficulty pronouncing all the names and places. Of course, that is a minor detail that doesn’t interfere with the story at all. My favorite aspect of the entire book is the great detail that went into describing the setting and characters. The touchy relationship between Brigitta and Himalette was very believable. I could picture the looks of irritation on Brigitta’s face as her younger sister sang her invented nonsense songs. The characters were very well developed and enjoyable, and I enjoyed them all.
I would say that this book is intended for the younger readers (10-12 year olds) that enjoy E.D. Baker’s books. It might seem a bit childish for the traditional YA reader. Brigitta is just reaching the point of “The Change,” so she isn’t as mature (in some aspects) as some of the more well known characters in YA literature. Brigitta of the White Forest is a clean, fast paced adventure that I would certainly recommend to any reader that enjoys stories about faeries and a good light-hearted read.
Along the way to Dead Mountain, Briggita and her sister encounter many dangers and make new friends. Together, Brigitta, Himalette, and Minq (a character that seems to resemble Jar Jar Binx from StarWars) head off to Dead Mountain. When they get there, they meet Hrathgar. Brigitta and Himalette are mesmerized by her kindness and can’t seem to understand why she has always been described as evil in the stories of faerie lore. Minq is not so easily impressed by Hrathgar’s innocent appearance. Through several twists and turns of events, the young faeries quickly learn that everything is not what it appears to be. Hrathgar is actually two separate people! Hrathgar Good (the faerie they first meet) and Hrathgar Evil (the faerie from the stories) are split personalities that share the curse from ancient times. Brigitta and her friends find themselves faced with an even more difficult challenge: they have to end the curse on their village and defeat Hrathgar Evil. But they aren’t sure if they are capable of destroying such a powerful faerie all by themselves.
I must start off saying that this book was great! Overall, it’s a great story about discovering your destiny and courage. Brigitta is brave, even though she doesn’t realize it. She’s determined to make things right in her village, so she sets off on what seems to be an impossible task. After everything is resolved, she is shocked to find that her destiny markings have finally revealed themselves. While she’s trying to understand the great change that she will face, she has a pretty deep conversation with Ondelle, the High Priestess of the faeries, about destiny. Ondelle shares some words of wisdom with Brigitta when she tells her “to allow all destinies to unfold as they should.” Brigitta tries to let this set in, but it’s still a hard concept for such a young faerie.
If you look at the book from a literary stand point--which I would be inclined to do with my students-- you can see several similarities to the classic struggles of good against evil in literature. There are evil villains with dubious plots and young heroes that have to discover their inner strengths and final destinies. Young Brigitta begins the story as a faerie that doesn’t fit in or understand her place in the faerie society. By the end of the book, she has an idea of what her future holds, even though she doesn’t think she can fulfill the high expectations. I couldn’t help but think of The Lord of the Rings as I read through this book, which isn’t a bad thing, considering I liked those books as well.
The plot is fast paced and starts quickly. You are sucked in to the story within the first two chapters. I was very thankful that it did not take long to develop the plot, and that the plot moved quickly throughout the book. The names were highly original, but I also found them a mouth full. If I had to read this book aloud, I might have some difficulty pronouncing all the names and places. Of course, that is a minor detail that doesn’t interfere with the story at all. My favorite aspect of the entire book is the great detail that went into describing the setting and characters. The touchy relationship between Brigitta and Himalette was very believable. I could picture the looks of irritation on Brigitta’s face as her younger sister sang her invented nonsense songs. The characters were very well developed and enjoyable, and I enjoyed them all.
I would say that this book is intended for the younger readers (10-12 year olds) that enjoy E.D. Baker’s books. It might seem a bit childish for the traditional YA reader. Brigitta is just reaching the point of “The Change,” so she isn’t as mature (in some aspects) as some of the more well known characters in YA literature. Brigitta of the White Forest is a clean, fast paced adventure that I would certainly recommend to any reader that enjoys stories about faeries and a good light-hearted read.
April 16, 2012
Let's start by saying that I have never read a book about fairies before. I actually wasn't sure if I would like this book at all because of that. However, it was a great book. It took a little bit to get into it because of it being about fairies, which I had no knowledge of what to expect, and because the names are all VERY unusual. You can guess that just from the title. Brigitta is the main character and her sister Himalette plays another major role. They live in the White Forest which is protected by a magical hourglass. The area surrounding their home is called Foraglen and in Foraglen is the Dark Forest. Brigitta begins the story by being jealous of her friends who have received their destiny markings, but she has not. She actually has no clue what her destiny is supposed to be because she doesn't have an affinity to any specific task. Her mother has always been a great cook and therefore her destiny marking was a Feast Cook (it had a more professional name in the story). Brigitta spends a lot of time daydreaming, running errands, and watching her sister. This is how the story begins, with her running errands and watching her sister. During one such errand, the White Forest is cursed by turning all the creatures within to stone. Brigitta and Himalette are the only ones to not be turned to stone due the the most powerful fairy spell, called the Blue Spell, somehow being cast upon them. They turn blue instead of turning to stone.
What should two little girl fairies do when everyone they know and love has been turned to stone and they have no one to turn to? The Blue Spell makes them itch and they just want to have everyone normal again. Brigitta's only option is to go in search of Hrothgar at the Dead Mountain out in the Dark Forest. She is the only fairy they can think of that may not have been turned to stone. She was known to have had magical abilities and was even banished from the White Forest using the Blue Spell. She seems to be the only one who might be able to save them from the Blue Spell an save the entire White Forest from their stone curse. Brigitta and Himalette travel where no other fairy has gone before in order to save the world as they know it. They encounter monsters they had never seen and make a few friends along the way. Their bravery is what legends are made of and will be remembered for all of Fairy history.
This is a wonderful story. Once you get use to the odd words to describe fairy culture, locations, and the fairies themselves, you will fly through the story as the action never stops. I read the second half of the story (70 pages) in less than two hours. I just had to know what would happen next and what obstacles these delicate fairies would conquer next. Children (particularly girls) will love this story. The creativity the author shows is amazing and after you get used to it and think in terms of someones that is mere inches tall, the world around you will take on a whole new perspective. It was a wonerful read and I look forward to book two.
Read more reviews at http://identitydiscovery.net
What should two little girl fairies do when everyone they know and love has been turned to stone and they have no one to turn to? The Blue Spell makes them itch and they just want to have everyone normal again. Brigitta's only option is to go in search of Hrothgar at the Dead Mountain out in the Dark Forest. She is the only fairy they can think of that may not have been turned to stone. She was known to have had magical abilities and was even banished from the White Forest using the Blue Spell. She seems to be the only one who might be able to save them from the Blue Spell an save the entire White Forest from their stone curse. Brigitta and Himalette travel where no other fairy has gone before in order to save the world as they know it. They encounter monsters they had never seen and make a few friends along the way. Their bravery is what legends are made of and will be remembered for all of Fairy history.
This is a wonderful story. Once you get use to the odd words to describe fairy culture, locations, and the fairies themselves, you will fly through the story as the action never stops. I read the second half of the story (70 pages) in less than two hours. I just had to know what would happen next and what obstacles these delicate fairies would conquer next. Children (particularly girls) will love this story. The creativity the author shows is amazing and after you get used to it and think in terms of someones that is mere inches tall, the world around you will take on a whole new perspective. It was a wonerful read and I look forward to book two.
Read more reviews at http://identitydiscovery.net
July 14, 2013
Brigitta of the White Forest is a fast-paced, fun, middle-grade novel about two faerie sisters who escape a frightening curse upon the White Forest. Brigitta and her younger sister, Himalette, travel to Dead Mountain in search of the only one that can help them—a banished faerie called Hrathgar.
Along the way, they experience many challenges including outwitting a giant caterpillar and an army of hungry frogs. The sisters meet some creatures they’re not sure they can trust, but whose help they need in their journey. Brigitta must also contend with the careless curiosity of her sister, which gets them into one disaster after another.
One of the themes that plays out is destiny. At the beginning of the book, Brigitta has not yet reached "The Change," and she is having difficulty fitting in. By the end of the book, Brigitta has matured enough for her wings to reveal her destiny markings, and she must now face what her future holds. Ondelle, the High Priestess of the faeries, talks to Brigitta about destiny, telling her to “allow all destinies to unfold as they should.” It is a concept that Brigitta chews on even when the story ends.
Danika Dinsmore paints an extraordinary setting with beautifully strange creatures and props. The history of the White Forest is vivid, and many of the names and terms are wild-sounding and evocative.
Dinsmore includes a lexicon to further describe the unusual place. My only disappointment is that the lexicon is placed at the back of the book. Had it been located in the beginning, I would have known to refer to it when I wanted a more detailed explanation. However, I can also understand the idea of placing it at the back so as not to distract readers from the story.
Regardless of location, the lexicon is especially engaging, further revealing Dinsmore’s complete down-to-the-sharmock-roots knowledge of this world she created.
My nine-year-old daughter read the book also. She was eager for me to finish it so we could discuss the story and what we think might happen in the sequel, Ruins of Noe. Below, Maddy gives her own take on Brigitta:
“What I liked best about Brigitta of the White forest was that it put a lot of questions in my mind. It made me make predictions about the book. The part where Brigitta rips her wing made me wonder how fairies get their wings repaired when they get damaged. I’ve been waiting to read an adventure book about fairies (because I love them) for a while. This one made my skin tingle as I read the very first line. I liked how the story ended, when Brigitta and Himalette are reunited with their friends and family. My two favorite characters are Minq and Himalette. Minq has really long ears which I adore! Himalette is very curious, and I can connect to her. The only thing I didn’t like about this book was that the story ended! I can’t wait to read the next book!”
Along the way, they experience many challenges including outwitting a giant caterpillar and an army of hungry frogs. The sisters meet some creatures they’re not sure they can trust, but whose help they need in their journey. Brigitta must also contend with the careless curiosity of her sister, which gets them into one disaster after another.
One of the themes that plays out is destiny. At the beginning of the book, Brigitta has not yet reached "The Change," and she is having difficulty fitting in. By the end of the book, Brigitta has matured enough for her wings to reveal her destiny markings, and she must now face what her future holds. Ondelle, the High Priestess of the faeries, talks to Brigitta about destiny, telling her to “allow all destinies to unfold as they should.” It is a concept that Brigitta chews on even when the story ends.
Danika Dinsmore paints an extraordinary setting with beautifully strange creatures and props. The history of the White Forest is vivid, and many of the names and terms are wild-sounding and evocative.
Dinsmore includes a lexicon to further describe the unusual place. My only disappointment is that the lexicon is placed at the back of the book. Had it been located in the beginning, I would have known to refer to it when I wanted a more detailed explanation. However, I can also understand the idea of placing it at the back so as not to distract readers from the story.
Regardless of location, the lexicon is especially engaging, further revealing Dinsmore’s complete down-to-the-sharmock-roots knowledge of this world she created.
My nine-year-old daughter read the book also. She was eager for me to finish it so we could discuss the story and what we think might happen in the sequel, Ruins of Noe. Below, Maddy gives her own take on Brigitta:
“What I liked best about Brigitta of the White forest was that it put a lot of questions in my mind. It made me make predictions about the book. The part where Brigitta rips her wing made me wonder how fairies get their wings repaired when they get damaged. I’ve been waiting to read an adventure book about fairies (because I love them) for a while. This one made my skin tingle as I read the very first line. I liked how the story ended, when Brigitta and Himalette are reunited with their friends and family. My two favorite characters are Minq and Himalette. Minq has really long ears which I adore! Himalette is very curious, and I can connect to her. The only thing I didn’t like about this book was that the story ended! I can’t wait to read the next book!”
April 27, 2012
Be at Behind A Million And One Pages on 23 April for a exclusive review of Brigitta of the White Forest on the Ruins of Noe Blog Tour! Join the blog tour!
What an imagination. Dinsmore completely captivates us in the world of the White Forest. Leaving us with brilliant imagery of the surrounding land as well as a fresh intake on a new kind of faerietale. Even though it is a middle grade novel, we don't really find out about many of the small details that pop up in the novel that would help us understand more, as well as to bring us further into the world of the White Forest. We are told names yet not exactly what they, leaving us to guess what it is. In a way, this brings us further into the novel as we bring our own kind of thinking and our own kind of mind into the novel, so that it becomes special to us as the reader as it is to the main Realm.
Everything that happens in this book (adventures of Brigitta through out of the White Forest) brings the sisters together as well as brings out a kind of bravery in everyone. We find that we are either encouraging Brigitta and Himalette or telling them what to do in bad situations. Yet in the end it all works out some way and we are still propelled with the girls throughout all of the thicks and thins of their universe. Every strange character we meet along the way adds to the imagination of the world and everything that, not only is in the White Forest, but what is on the outside as well. This gives us a feel of their whole realm and not only of the Forest the Faeries are situated in. Although the names used in the novel are basically thrown at us from the very start, we get accustomed to them. However, some of the names I sometimes even had to stop for a second or two, just so I could get the correct pronunciation. Targeted as a middle-grade novel, this may be harder for younger readers to get a hold of, especially when they are so captivated by the world that they have to stop for a moment in order to be able to get a grasp of the name of either the food or the person etc. It takes them out of the rhythm they were in and the pace set to get the young readers really into the novel, to stop and think before they have to read on again.
What an imagination. Dinsmore completely captivates us in the world of the White Forest. Leaving us with brilliant imagery of the surrounding land as well as a fresh intake on a new kind of faerietale. Even though it is a middle grade novel, we don't really find out about many of the small details that pop up in the novel that would help us understand more, as well as to bring us further into the world of the White Forest. We are told names yet not exactly what they, leaving us to guess what it is. In a way, this brings us further into the novel as we bring our own kind of thinking and our own kind of mind into the novel, so that it becomes special to us as the reader as it is to the main Realm.
Everything that happens in this book (adventures of Brigitta through out of the White Forest) brings the sisters together as well as brings out a kind of bravery in everyone. We find that we are either encouraging Brigitta and Himalette or telling them what to do in bad situations. Yet in the end it all works out some way and we are still propelled with the girls throughout all of the thicks and thins of their universe. Every strange character we meet along the way adds to the imagination of the world and everything that, not only is in the White Forest, but what is on the outside as well. This gives us a feel of their whole realm and not only of the Forest the Faeries are situated in. Although the names used in the novel are basically thrown at us from the very start, we get accustomed to them. However, some of the names I sometimes even had to stop for a second or two, just so I could get the correct pronunciation. Targeted as a middle-grade novel, this may be harder for younger readers to get a hold of, especially when they are so captivated by the world that they have to stop for a moment in order to be able to get a grasp of the name of either the food or the person etc. It takes them out of the rhythm they were in and the pace set to get the young readers really into the novel, to stop and think before they have to read on again.
March 10, 2012
Brigitta of the White Forest is the first books in this Fae series for Middle Grade readers. I found it to be a very interesting and unique story that could not only hold the interest of young readers, but YA and adults. It's a face paced read that only took me one day to get through, and that says a lot as I am not an extremely fast reader!
I like Fae stories as much as the next person but they sometimes have the same theme. Someone gets stolen, and finds out they are Fae, or Fae are living among humans, etc. With this story you get a different sort of tale. Brigitta and her sister are away on a errand when everyone in their Forest is turned to stone. Brigitta and her sister were left untouched, so its up to them to save the day.
Though the story was not filled with a lot of characters (since most were stone), it still had some interesting characters. Minq was my favorite and unusual character, at first you are not sure if he is trustworthy, but he does prove himself.
Brigitta and her sister show themselves to be very brave young fairies and learn a lot along the way. They battle, giant caterpillars, killer frogs, and a evil fairy. Small concerns like what type of destiny will she get and how her wings will change all disappear when her only aspiration is to save her beloved White Forest. There are a lot of great lessons for young readers to learn as they read this fun filled book about two little faeries who over come unbelievable odds and saved their family and friends.
I would recommend this novel to anyone who enjoys a good faerie book no matter if your young or old. Now I can't wait to see what adventure awaits me in the next book The Ruin of Noe.
I like Fae stories as much as the next person but they sometimes have the same theme. Someone gets stolen, and finds out they are Fae, or Fae are living among humans, etc. With this story you get a different sort of tale. Brigitta and her sister are away on a errand when everyone in their Forest is turned to stone. Brigitta and her sister were left untouched, so its up to them to save the day.
Though the story was not filled with a lot of characters (since most were stone), it still had some interesting characters. Minq was my favorite and unusual character, at first you are not sure if he is trustworthy, but he does prove himself.
Brigitta and her sister show themselves to be very brave young fairies and learn a lot along the way. They battle, giant caterpillars, killer frogs, and a evil fairy. Small concerns like what type of destiny will she get and how her wings will change all disappear when her only aspiration is to save her beloved White Forest. There are a lot of great lessons for young readers to learn as they read this fun filled book about two little faeries who over come unbelievable odds and saved their family and friends.
I would recommend this novel to anyone who enjoys a good faerie book no matter if your young or old. Now I can't wait to see what adventure awaits me in the next book The Ruin of Noe.
June 29, 2012
When the faeries and all other living creatures in the realm turn to stone except Brigitta and her lively little sister Himalette, Brigitta determines that she has no choice but to seek the help of Hrathgar. Hrathgar lives far from the Earth Faerie Realm at Dead Mountain, where she was banished for her evil deeds. Thus the two sisters set off on a very perilous journey across an immense dry river and into the Dark Forest to find her.
Along the way, they rescue Minq, a funny little critter with extremely large ears, from the web of a giant caterpillar. Minq in turn helps them through the forest and all of its perils and introduces them to Gola, a very old and wise tree-woman. Together, the four of them come up with a plan to seek out the help of Hrathgar.
In her quest, Brigitta must persevere against enormous odds while safeguarding her sister who is wont to wonder off and get into trouble of her own. She learns the Hrathgar is at once the most wicked and the kindest faerie she will ever know, one whose good side is willing to make the greatest sacrifice for the sake of her people. She learns to see beyond Gola’s weathered old skin and gruff manner to the kind being within.
Brigitta of the White Forest is a finely written story. I was asked to read this book despite my warning that fantasy was not my favorite genre. I enjoyed it for its very “human” tale of an intrepid girl’s journey to save her family and her people and, in the process, begin to mature into adulthood. I recommend it to all middle grade readers.
Along the way, they rescue Minq, a funny little critter with extremely large ears, from the web of a giant caterpillar. Minq in turn helps them through the forest and all of its perils and introduces them to Gola, a very old and wise tree-woman. Together, the four of them come up with a plan to seek out the help of Hrathgar.
In her quest, Brigitta must persevere against enormous odds while safeguarding her sister who is wont to wonder off and get into trouble of her own. She learns the Hrathgar is at once the most wicked and the kindest faerie she will ever know, one whose good side is willing to make the greatest sacrifice for the sake of her people. She learns to see beyond Gola’s weathered old skin and gruff manner to the kind being within.
Brigitta of the White Forest is a finely written story. I was asked to read this book despite my warning that fantasy was not my favorite genre. I enjoyed it for its very “human” tale of an intrepid girl’s journey to save her family and her people and, in the process, begin to mature into adulthood. I recommend it to all middle grade readers.
February 11, 2012
How refreshing to read a hero’s journey where the hero is a girl. Frodo be warned; you have a competitor!
Brigitta is a young faerie who, at the beginning of the story, is occupied by girlish problems: trying to decide what she wants to be when she grows up, fitting in with giddy girlfriends and escaping a pesky young sister, Himalette. In a flash of blinding light, everything in Brigitta’s world changes. Parents, aunt, friends and even the community elders are turned to stone. Only Brigitta and Himalette remain, protected by a mysterious Blue Spell. Meanwhile, the sands of the Great Hourglass of Protection that preserve the white forest from destruction are running out. Only the elders can reset the hourglass. Brigitta must set out on a quest to find the secret to turn the elders back to normal. And she must take Himalette with her.
Off they fly to cross the immense river of dry earth and brave the Dead Mountain where the waters flow uphill. On the way they battle fearsome creatures and find mentors and companions. Like Brigitta the reader becomes lost in this wonderful and fearsome world, ensnared by Dinsmore’s amazing imagination. I won’t reveal the details of that journey other than to tell you it’s both expected and surprising -- expected because it follows the course of the traditional hero’s journey and surprising because the hero is a girl and perhaps also because the author is a woman.
Brigitta is a young faerie who, at the beginning of the story, is occupied by girlish problems: trying to decide what she wants to be when she grows up, fitting in with giddy girlfriends and escaping a pesky young sister, Himalette. In a flash of blinding light, everything in Brigitta’s world changes. Parents, aunt, friends and even the community elders are turned to stone. Only Brigitta and Himalette remain, protected by a mysterious Blue Spell. Meanwhile, the sands of the Great Hourglass of Protection that preserve the white forest from destruction are running out. Only the elders can reset the hourglass. Brigitta must set out on a quest to find the secret to turn the elders back to normal. And she must take Himalette with her.
Off they fly to cross the immense river of dry earth and brave the Dead Mountain where the waters flow uphill. On the way they battle fearsome creatures and find mentors and companions. Like Brigitta the reader becomes lost in this wonderful and fearsome world, ensnared by Dinsmore’s amazing imagination. I won’t reveal the details of that journey other than to tell you it’s both expected and surprising -- expected because it follows the course of the traditional hero’s journey and surprising because the hero is a girl and perhaps also because the author is a woman.
February 10, 2019
Brigitta sees everyone around her has been marked for a specific destiny. Her father's wings have the markings of the Inventor. Her mother's of the Feast Master. Her aunt's of the Chronicler. Brigitta doesn't yet know what she will be marked for as she is awaiting her change. This is coming of age story for young adults, specifically middle schoolers, is one to embrace as you read it. It often reminded me of The Lord of the Rings since the land, the White Forest, is of importance to the fairies.
As fascinating take on the world of faeries. Elders must protect and perform rituals to keep the Hourglass of Protection intact. It keeps intruders out of the peaceful White Forest. There are fairies, sprites, satyrs, talking plants, trees and animals. Aside from all these magical aspects of the White Forest, there is the story of growing up and coming to terms with all the unknowns. The book is really an uplifting perspective of a young girl finding her way through a significant change in her life. While doing so, she also has to protect her family and friends from their destruction.
Brigitta of the White Forest is an easy read. It is short but has enough depth. Being that it was my first time reading a young adult book about faeries, I have thoroughly enjoyed it. I recommend it to anyone who is interested in a new type of fantasy book, to anyone who has never read of faeries, and to anyone who just wants to buy a coming of age book for their middle schooler.
As fascinating take on the world of faeries. Elders must protect and perform rituals to keep the Hourglass of Protection intact. It keeps intruders out of the peaceful White Forest. There are fairies, sprites, satyrs, talking plants, trees and animals. Aside from all these magical aspects of the White Forest, there is the story of growing up and coming to terms with all the unknowns. The book is really an uplifting perspective of a young girl finding her way through a significant change in her life. While doing so, she also has to protect her family and friends from their destruction.
Brigitta of the White Forest is an easy read. It is short but has enough depth. Being that it was my first time reading a young adult book about faeries, I have thoroughly enjoyed it. I recommend it to anyone who is interested in a new type of fantasy book, to anyone who has never read of faeries, and to anyone who just wants to buy a coming of age book for their middle schooler.
May 9, 2014
Brigitta of the White Forest is a light, enchanting read.
Danika Dinsmore has created a wonderful fantasy world, for young
readers and the young at heart. A world of faeries and sprites, carnivorous caterpillars, rock dragons, deadly frogs, talking plants and more.
Brigitta and her sister Himmy are running an errand when an evil curse strikes the White Forest. It is up to these two young faeries to brave the unknown dangers of the world outside of the Forest; to save their home from destruction. On their journey they encounter many challenges and make new friends and foes. The bond between the sisters becomes stronger, even though the often-curious Himmy puts them into further danger. As the adventure unfolds Brigitta begins to learn more about destiny, her family and the history of her people.
It is a very light read, and in places may lack a little depth, but I was never bored and I occasionally was surprised by the twists and turns. Brigitta is a wonderful role model; she is full of questions, strong and caring, and resourceful. Brigitta of the White Forest is a delightful book that will be popular with younger readers and loves of fantasy. I am looking forward to reading the other books in the series.
March 23, 2012
Brigitta is a young Water Fairie on the cusp of learning what her destiny will be in the White Forest, the protected realm of her people. Will she be a Feast Master like her mother? An Inventor like her father? There's no way to tell until the proper markings show up on the tips of her wings. In the meantime, she has to deal with the types of problems facing any maturing young lady including her precocious (and often annoying) little sister who always seems to be hanging around.
One day, while flying an errand, Brigitta and her sister are horrified to discover that all of their family and friends have been turned to stone. In fact, every living being in the White Forest is now this way. Why were they spared from the curse and why did it have to happen now -- only days before the Hourglass of Protection's last grain of sand falls?
With the help of an ancient inhabitant of the dark forest, Brigitta and her sister set out to find the answers to these questions before time runs out and the outside world, with all of it's dangers, comes pouring in.
Smoothly written, Brigitta of the White Forest is a fun and engaging read with an interesting story and unique characters (my favorites were Gola and her familiar, Minq). Author Danika Dinsmore does a fine job in keeping the story moving and avoiding the tiresome over-description that often plagues this genre.
One day, while flying an errand, Brigitta and her sister are horrified to discover that all of their family and friends have been turned to stone. In fact, every living being in the White Forest is now this way. Why were they spared from the curse and why did it have to happen now -- only days before the Hourglass of Protection's last grain of sand falls?
With the help of an ancient inhabitant of the dark forest, Brigitta and her sister set out to find the answers to these questions before time runs out and the outside world, with all of it's dangers, comes pouring in.
Smoothly written, Brigitta of the White Forest is a fun and engaging read with an interesting story and unique characters (my favorites were Gola and her familiar, Minq). Author Danika Dinsmore does a fine job in keeping the story moving and avoiding the tiresome over-description that often plagues this genre.
August 3, 2011
Brigitta of the White Forest is a unique tale which quite frankly took me a little bit by surprise. From very early in the novel, I was taken in by Dinsmore's usage of imagery, mythology, and creativity. There is a lot here for readers to be fascinated by.
Within this novel, I found the pacing to be pretty even. I enjoyed that I was given the opportunity to view the world that Brigitta lived in and get to know her character before the action really began. Many times I found myself completely lost in the world that Dinsmore's created. It is a beautiful world full of magic and mystery. And perfectly suits the mood of the novel.
As for the characters, they were not always my cup of tea. While they are wonderful and full of diversity, I did have a slight issue with making a connection to them. Now it is possible that since Brigitta of the White Forest is aimed a readers around the middle grade level that this issue is more my own than with the novel itself.
Brigitta of the White Forest, all in all, is a wonderful quick read. I thoroughly enjoyed the world that Dinsmore created, and the characters, for the most part. If you enjoyed novels such as R.J. Anderson's Knife, then Brigitta of the White Forest will definitely be a novel that you will enjoy.
Within this novel, I found the pacing to be pretty even. I enjoyed that I was given the opportunity to view the world that Brigitta lived in and get to know her character before the action really began. Many times I found myself completely lost in the world that Dinsmore's created. It is a beautiful world full of magic and mystery. And perfectly suits the mood of the novel.
As for the characters, they were not always my cup of tea. While they are wonderful and full of diversity, I did have a slight issue with making a connection to them. Now it is possible that since Brigitta of the White Forest is aimed a readers around the middle grade level that this issue is more my own than with the novel itself.
Brigitta of the White Forest, all in all, is a wonderful quick read. I thoroughly enjoyed the world that Dinsmore created, and the characters, for the most part. If you enjoyed novels such as R.J. Anderson's Knife, then Brigitta of the White Forest will definitely be a novel that you will enjoy.
March 24, 2013
Wow this was a really fast read for me. I couldn't put it down for one thing. It's not a heavy serious book, but I do think it's well written. It was nice to read a book that was mostly light in tone, yet engaging enough to keep me reading. Pacing of the story was good. It kept flowing along & while a bit predictable I liked the characters enough to continue. Gola the Drutan with her eyes kinda reminded me of the monster in Pan's labrinyth with its eyes on its hands. The relationship dynamics between Brigitta & Himalette (Himmy for short) are really funny. Himmy is a typical curious child, touching everything. But she does show courage & cunning during the journey that she & her older sister Brigitta make. You can tell that both youngsters have the potential to grow up into very strong faeries. The creatures & forests kind of remind me of Grimm fairytales. Not everything that looks harmless is harmless once they venture outside the White Forest. Also the Grimm tales are all about children going into dark dangerous forests by themselves & escaping by wit & courage. I would read the next book in the series & hope that Dinsmore keeps writing more! Would love to see the characters grow up!
February 20, 2011
In a world where it is sometimes hard to tell friend from foe, two sisters race against time to save their beloved White Forest and all the faeries the love. As they journey beyond the faerie realm, Brigitta and Himalette persevere through adversity and learn to match wits against giant caterpillars, rock dragons and munshmins.
Before I opened Brigitta of the White Forest, the gorgeous cover with an ethereal blue moon caught my eye, setting the tone for the story. As I read, the White Forest came to life in my imagination as a blend of The Shire and Rivendell, yet with a delightful, whimsical personality all its own. Dinsmore’s faerie world is amazingly detailed, steeped in history and traditions that bring depth to the tale.
I especially love the relationship between Brigitta and her little sister, Himalette. Their loyalty, bravery and even a few sisterly squabbles made for credible, endearing characters.
I recommend this book for middle graders and up. Girls will especially relate to Brigitta, but don’t count out the boys – there is plenty of suspense and adventure, too.
Before I opened Brigitta of the White Forest, the gorgeous cover with an ethereal blue moon caught my eye, setting the tone for the story. As I read, the White Forest came to life in my imagination as a blend of The Shire and Rivendell, yet with a delightful, whimsical personality all its own. Dinsmore’s faerie world is amazingly detailed, steeped in history and traditions that bring depth to the tale.
I especially love the relationship between Brigitta and her little sister, Himalette. Their loyalty, bravery and even a few sisterly squabbles made for credible, endearing characters.
I recommend this book for middle graders and up. Girls will especially relate to Brigitta, but don’t count out the boys – there is plenty of suspense and adventure, too.
July 17, 2011
Brigitta is a young faerie who is anxious about going through the change every teenage faerie goes through. During this change, their wings mature and display markings which determine their life path. What Brigitta doesn’t understand is why anyone has to be stuck with only one path in life.
As her village begins preparation for the annual Festival of the Elements, Brigitta and her precocious little sister Himalette are flying through the forest when a strange white light flashes over their village. Soon, Brigitta and her sister discover that everyone, faeries and forest creatures alike, have been turned to stone. It is now up to them to find out what happened so they can reverse the curse before the Hourglass of Protection runs out, leaving their village susceptible to evil.
I fell into this story completely from the first page. Ms. Dinsmore does an amazing job of painting a world the reader can easily immerse themselves in. The characters are fresh and enjoyable and the writing is fluid, imaginative and entertaining. I would highly recommend this one to all middle-grade children as well as anyone else who enjoys a good fantasy.
(Review copy courtesy of the Publisher)
As her village begins preparation for the annual Festival of the Elements, Brigitta and her precocious little sister Himalette are flying through the forest when a strange white light flashes over their village. Soon, Brigitta and her sister discover that everyone, faeries and forest creatures alike, have been turned to stone. It is now up to them to find out what happened so they can reverse the curse before the Hourglass of Protection runs out, leaving their village susceptible to evil.
I fell into this story completely from the first page. Ms. Dinsmore does an amazing job of painting a world the reader can easily immerse themselves in. The characters are fresh and enjoyable and the writing is fluid, imaginative and entertaining. I would highly recommend this one to all middle-grade children as well as anyone else who enjoys a good fantasy.
(Review copy courtesy of the Publisher)
February 4, 2016
I was given this book to give an honest review
I just love fantasy, and because of this love, I have read many different fantasy books. I feel like everyone tends to stick to a certain theme. An ordinary girl finds out she is not normal or someone goes missing and this courageous person must find them before it is too late. Thankfully, this was not one of those stories, and even though it was geared towards middle grade I found it quite captivating!
Brigitta and her little sister, Himalette, somehow manage to be the only ones not turned to stone. The two of them now must embark on a dangerous outing to save not only their people but their forest as well. The author, Danika, did a truly fantastic job at make you feel the sense of urgency, without a lingering cheesiness. The world was described in such a perfect manner. I was able to easily picture myself with or even as the characters. Like all great books, I was unable to predict the ending. The plot twists were timed perfectly, and the characters showed great development. This is truly a fascinating story, that could easily be enjoyed by anyone who reads and likes faerie stories.
I just love fantasy, and because of this love, I have read many different fantasy books. I feel like everyone tends to stick to a certain theme. An ordinary girl finds out she is not normal or someone goes missing and this courageous person must find them before it is too late. Thankfully, this was not one of those stories, and even though it was geared towards middle grade I found it quite captivating!
Brigitta and her little sister, Himalette, somehow manage to be the only ones not turned to stone. The two of them now must embark on a dangerous outing to save not only their people but their forest as well. The author, Danika, did a truly fantastic job at make you feel the sense of urgency, without a lingering cheesiness. The world was described in such a perfect manner. I was able to easily picture myself with or even as the characters. Like all great books, I was unable to predict the ending. The plot twists were timed perfectly, and the characters showed great development. This is truly a fascinating story, that could easily be enjoyed by anyone who reads and likes faerie stories.
March 9, 2011
When everyone in the white forest gets turned to stone Brigitta and her little sister Himallete are the only fairies left to save it. On their journey they find giant caterpillars and glow worms. They meet Minq, Gola, Hrathger, mean frogs and fat frogs. Can they save the White Forest? Will they save the White Forest, and how? Well...I guess that's up to you to find out! this is my ABSOLUTE favorite book and I recommend it to just about anyone and everyone. Its just one of those great books where you get captured in the story and just want to keep reading and reading for hours on end. You feel like your with Brigitta and Himalette on that journey as well, and you just don't want to leave the story!
November 2, 2012
I really enjoy a good solid quest story, where an unlikely--even unwilling--hero goes on a journey to find the talisman or magic needed to save the world. Brigitta of the White Forest is such a tale.
The writing style is engaging and professional, drawing the reader in and holding attention. The main characters, Brigitta and her little sister Himalette, are very real; they act just like real sisters. Although, I have to admit that my favourite character is Minq. I love his ears!
There's nothing really new here, except that the main characters are winged faeries, which is interesting, but doesn't really add that much to the plot. That's okay, though, as it is a good solid plot and is written in an enjoyable style. Sometimes you don't need anything new.
The writing style is engaging and professional, drawing the reader in and holding attention. The main characters, Brigitta and her little sister Himalette, are very real; they act just like real sisters. Although, I have to admit that my favourite character is Minq. I love his ears!
There's nothing really new here, except that the main characters are winged faeries, which is interesting, but doesn't really add that much to the plot. That's okay, though, as it is a good solid plot and is written in an enjoyable style. Sometimes you don't need anything new.
January 14, 2012
Lewis Carroll could not have done better with lovely, lyrical names for plants and animals that flow trippingly upon the tongue throughout this book. This prose writer uses poet-language in every made-up word, like munshmins, pipberries, Tiragarrow, and Hrathgar (nod to Beowulf?). I'm not a natural fan of YA fantasy, but this gem had me hooked from page one to the finish. I love the idea of the young fairy girl's "puberty" in which she waits for her life's calling to be revealed. I also love the dark, scary moments that balance out the idyllic White Forest. I'm looking forward to reading Book Two! My niece is a big fan of Brigitta and I'll be sending her book two as soon as it's out.
October 8, 2014
A Well-Crafted World
This was as delightful a read for me as it will be for my young cousins. A young hero’s journey through a Tolkienesque world of clever creatures and living landscapes, this faeries’ tale evoked both suspense and smiles. The emotions Brigitta and Himalette exhibit ring true: exasperation, annoyance, protectiveness, rivalry, and sisterly love. I loved the concept of destiny markings, wing patterns that represent a faery’s life task, and found them easy to visualize. Brigitta’s questioning the restrictions of a preordained destiny adds a nice dose of depth to this entertaining story. I look forward to reading – and recommending – the entire series.
This was as delightful a read for me as it will be for my young cousins. A young hero’s journey through a Tolkienesque world of clever creatures and living landscapes, this faeries’ tale evoked both suspense and smiles. The emotions Brigitta and Himalette exhibit ring true: exasperation, annoyance, protectiveness, rivalry, and sisterly love. I loved the concept of destiny markings, wing patterns that represent a faery’s life task, and found them easy to visualize. Brigitta’s questioning the restrictions of a preordained destiny adds a nice dose of depth to this entertaining story. I look forward to reading – and recommending – the entire series.
December 8, 2012
I like the characters and plot but I wanted more description, more showing. It's a wonderful quest but I was watching everything take place vs. feeling pulled in and part of the action. I've liked other faerie stories so I know it's not genre, I can't quite put my finger on it. It took me 7 months to get thru the book, highly unusual for me. I was completely loving the ending but I am not in love with the characters enough to want to read about the next adventure. I think it just might be I don't relate to the characters.
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