The Two Princesses of Bamarre

This is the third time I've read this enchanting book. I no longer have my own copy but am hoping to procure one again. It contains a marvelous, funny story with a lot of heart and, more than that, better world-building than one might expect, especially considering how little fantasy authors seem concerned about that aspect in the writing that gets published today. But then, Levine is of the earlier generation, the writers I grew up with, and is of a different class. I love that the ending is not predictable and in its way is heart-wrenching, but also uplifting. I used to really wish there had been a sequel, because everything wasn't worked out in one neat little package, but now I enjoy that the story moves and breathes on its own. show more Probably my favourite aspect is that Levine sometimes has characters interrupt each other speaking, and then the person cut off never finishes their original thought - I always wonder what they meant to say! A solid five stars for this one. I'd recommend it to any kid and any adult, too, for a good adventure and a treatise on all different kinds of love. show less

I have always loved Gail Carson Levine's books since a young age. But this one in particular has always held a special place in my heart for me. The heartbreak, sorrows, victories, and losses that these two sisters go through have always captivated me and made me eager to go along and share with them the lessons they learn and celebrate with them their achievements. Five stars.

A favourite read from my childhood! The reading level is fairly simple - I believe it's worded for 9-12 year olds - but the story, like most classics, is well done enough with the fantasy and adventure and an underlying love story that unfolds throughout to keep adults entertained as well as kids just discovering their love for reading.
This story holds a precious place in my heart as the book to introduce me to the Fantasy genre and my love for adventure!

"But Addie, the love stays."

every time I showed up in Queenie's dms at ungodly hours going "i need to read a book RIGHT NOW" she'd tell me to read this and every time I simply forgot. I did not forget this time. what else was I going to do on the pvta twice a week, anyway?
stories of laughter and bravery!! nothing makes me love a book more than those. juvenile, yes, but meaningful. did not overly care that much about the romance but I don't mind it (someone said gateway drug to immortal romance which is FUNNY but as somebody who does not enjoy that particular brand of romance, unfortunate). But this is a fairytale in a sense and it does that job well.

anyway, the love stays! step follows step, hope follows courage.

Even 15 years later, this book still makes me cry (I'm 22 now). This book, although written for younger children, is great for anyone who wants a light and exciting read. The story centers on two young princesses, one adventurous and brave (Meryl), the other more quiet and reserved (Addie). When a deadly sickness strikes Meryl, Addie is determined to set aside her fears and go out in search of the cure. There are fairies and dragons, wizards and demons, adventure and romance, and one hell of an ending that still gives me goosebumps and causes me to tear up.

I recommend this book to anyone, young or old, girl or boy, who wants a good old-fashioned fairy tale adventure.

I fell in love with this gentle fantasy and coming-of-age story. Anyone with experience in fantasy could tell where this story was going; it was the "getting there" that made it a page turner. There were some unexpected twists, but they delighted me in that they took the less traveled road and added depth to the tale.

If you like well-written fantasy, I think you'll like this story. I think that young, shy adults will find validation. It is certainly a book I won't mind revisiting.

This is an AMAZING book about differences between siblings, and self esteem! It has a rather unexpected ending, which sometimes I like, and other times I don't.