The Willow Tree's Daughter

Floramonde #1

by Pamela Freeman, Tracie Grimwood (Illustrator)

With a king for a father and a tree spirit for a mother, Betony is a reluctant princess who prefers the simple, outdoor life. This is the story of her life at the palace, her adventures with wizards, hobgoblins, unicorns and dragons, and her love for the gardener's apprentice.

Genres: Fantasy

112 pages, Paperback

First published July 1, 1994

About the author

Pamela Freeman is an Australian author of books for both adults and children. Most of her work is fantasy but she has also written mystery stories, science fiction, family dramas and non-fiction. Her first adult series, the Castings Trilogy (Blood Ties, Deep Water and Full Circle) is published globally by Orbit books. She is best known in Australia for the junior novel Victor’s Quest and an associated series, the Floramonde books, and for The Black Dress: Mary MacKillop’s Early Years, which won the NSW Premier’s History Prize in 2006.

As of 2015, she will also be publishing historical novels under the name Pamela Hart.

Reviews

[Judith · Rating 5 out of 5]

I actually read a section of this book before it was published. A short story that became the final chapter of "The Willow Tree's Daughter" was published in the NSW School Magazine, where I was a member of the editorial team.

"The Willow Tree's Daughter" is a perfect fantasy for middle-school aged kids. It's witty and wise and inventive, and it turns some fairy tale conventions on their head—while holding them in the deepest of respect and understanding.

The titular character, Betony, is the daughter of a king who fell in love with the living spirit of a willow tree—a dryad—who he saves when her tree is dying. Betony grows up strong and smart and determined to make her own way as a princess who will ultimately inherit her kingdom.

There are two sequels to "The Willow Tree's Daughter"—"Windrider" and "The Centre of Magic", which are equally as good (although a little darker—more is at stake for Betony and her family and kingdom, especially in "The Centre of Magic"). Look out also for the "spin off", "Victor's Quest", which is to be republished by Walker Books Australia and UK fairly soon, with its own sequel, "Victor's Challenge" to follow. (Victor is a sweet but gormless and not very bright prince who fails in the quest for Betony's hand. Pamela felt sorry for him, so she gave him his own book—and happy ending.)

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a really sweet book, and would recommend this to all ages. Its about a dryad(tree spirit) that falls in love with a king, when they have a child she is not told her mothers past but still longs to adventure, a truly beautiful novel.

[Loz703 · Rating 4 out of 5]

An enjoyable fantasy book for children/young adults. I loved this book when I was younger and I just wanted to read it again and remember why I liked it so much. I still love the ending of this book and I love Betony’s bravery, confidence and outgoing nature.

[Yvette · Rating 4 out of 5]

A really sweet little book about Betony, the daughter of a king and a dryad. We are introduced to other characters and magical creatures through the book. Fun and whimsical.

[Karen Field · Rating 4 out of 5]

A delightful story told in a fairy tale way, but with a twist. Each chapter felt like a stand alone story, but all the chapters together told the full story. The book is funny, moving and easy to read. There was a bit of everything, and something was always happening. It drew me in, and held me captive.

The characters are charming. I especially liked the main character's strength. It's good to find a princess who doesn't need saving, and has a genuine connection with the people around her.

And there was even a bit of romance.

I'm glad I took a risk with this book. I'll be reading more in the series. No doubt about that.

Recommended.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this series when I was about 9 and I still adore it.
Just re read this for the first time in at least 11 years. How. Effing. Magical.
And a huge congratulations to Pamela Freeman for writing books to inspire mighty girls to think and stand up for themselves. Princess Betony is an amazing role model.