Rapunzel's Revenge

 

 

 

 

Bibliographic Data: 

 

Hale, Dean; Hale, Shannon. 2008. Rapunzel’s Revenge. Ill. Hale, Nathan. New York: Bloomsbury.

ISBN 9781599902883

Plot Summary:

Rapunzel lives a sheltered life in a lavish villa behind massive walls she has never left. Rapunzel dares to venture outside the walls on her twelve birthday and discovers the horrible working conditions those outside must endure. She also discovers her real mother is a slave on the outside and her supposed mother, Gothel, is a ruthless leader who kidnapped her as a child. Rapunzel becomes defiant and Gothel sends her to a magic tree tower where Rapunzel remains for four years, alone with her hair growing abnormally long. She is able to escape the tower swinging herself to the ground using her hair. Rapunzel sets out on a quest to free her mother and put a stop to Gothel’s magic and rule over the kingdom. Rapunzel meets a young thief named Jack, and the two continue together using Rapunzel’s lethal braids as their only self-defense against various outlaws and Gothel’s magic.

Critical Analysis:

With a strong, determined female protagonist, Rapunzel’s Revenge presents young female readers with a likeable and relatable character. We see Rapunzel as human; oppressed and powerless in the beginning and becoming independent as the novel progresses. Young girls can relate to Rapunzel’s rebellion and desire for liberation, not only for herself, but for those she cares for. The plot moves along logically using graphics and word bubbles making the story visually appealing, as well as simple to follow. Seeing everything from Rapunzel’s view point makes for an intimate glimpse into the obstacles and tasks she encounters along her quest. The illustrations are detailed and vivid and there are numerous segments that tell the story through action boxes without the need for any text.

While the setting is definitely a fantastical one, the basic concept the author’s and illustrator create is a rough, unruly world full of magic used for greed rather than the greater good. The theme of good versus evil is a common one among graphic novels, though it is no less evident in Rapunzel’s Revenge. Rapunzel continues to fight against the evil of Gothel and must save not only her mother, but everyone enslaved by Gothel’s magic. In the end she prevails and good triumphs over evil.

Awards:

Cybil Award, graphic novel winner, 2008

 

Review Excerpt(s):

Kirkus, August 2008:

“Nathan Hale's art, stylistically reminiscent of a picture book, provides a snazzy counterpoint to the folksy text. A dash of typical fairy-tale romance, a strong sense of social justice and a spunky heroine make this a standout choice for younger teens.”

 

Booklist, September 2008:

“Hale’s art matches the story well, yielding expressive characters and lending a wonderful sense of place to the fantasy landscape. Rich with humor and excitement, this is an alternate version of a classic that will become a fast favorite of young readers.”

 

Connections:

*Read Paul O. Zelinsky’s picture book Rapunzel. Compare and contrast the major components from each book. How is the real Rapunzel different from “Punzie”?

A follow-up graphic novel to Rapunzel’s Revenge:

*Hale, Dean; Hale, Shannon. Calamity Jack. Ill. Hale, Nathan. ISBN 9781599903736