The World Above, by Cameron Dokey

I really really really really enjoy fractured fairy tales. In fact, of all the stories in my head that I've started to write down, my favorite is....a fractured fairy tale. So, the Once Upon a Time series really hits the spot for me. Now, it's true there's a little hit and miss involved. If you're new to the series or have read one that made you go 'eh', may I suggest Crimson Thread, by Suzanne Weyn - I never reviewed it, I have no idea why, but it's my favorite of them so far.


The World Above, by Cameron Dokey
Young Adult, 2010

Gen and her twin brother, Jack, were raised with their mother's tales of life in the World Above. Gen is skeptical, but adventurous Jack believes the stories--and trades the family cow for magical beans. Their mother rejoices, knowing they can finally return to their royal home.
When Jack plants the beans and climbs the enchanted stalk, he is captured by the tyrant who now rules the land. Gen sets off to rescue her brother, but danger awaits her in the World Above. For finding Jack may mean losing her heart....

I thought this retelling was fascinating - I mean Jack and the Beanstalk is really kind of a boring and a little bit weird (Fee Fie Foe Fum?), but told this way it made whole heck of a lot more sense. There was a little Robin Hood thrown in there too that added to the adventure and intrigue, and of course everyone falls in love. I felt, though, that everything was a bit rushed. The adventure wasn't very exciting since for the most part everything went their way. Even the bad guy turns out to be alright. And since everyone fell in love on sight...there just wasn't much left to tell of those stories.

Graded a C+.