The first chapter of The Princess Bride, alone, makes this book a masterpiece--and it was almost entirely trimmed from the movie. Besides a much more romantic love story, the book boasts delightful side-trips into the stories of Inigo the swordsman and Fezzik the giant. But the main treat is the story of Buttercup, the most beautiful woman in the world, whose heart is shattered by the death of her beloved Westley at the hands of the Dread Pirate Roberts. When the heir to the throne of her imaginary country comes a-wooing, she consents to marry him, on the understanding that she will never love him. Thereby hangs a tale--a tale of intrigue, mistaken identity, betrayal, true love, daring deeds, and wry humor.

Embedded in this story, which Goldman fictitiously adapted from a very fictitious book his father supposedly read to him as a child, is another charming story: a madcap story of literary adaptation, covering for a heart-warming father-son love story, full of nostalgia. And even in the midst of the fairy tale adventure come moments of bracing honesty and painful realism, such as: "Life is pain. Anyone who says otherwise is selling something."

This is simply one of the most enchanting and funny books I have ever read. I believe I'm on my third copy now, having worn out two before it--or maybe I loaned them to somebody and never got them back. Who knows? Once you read this book, you'll be as hooked as I am. So prepare to buy it again and again...

Robbie Fischer
Arizona USA

Recommended Age: 12+

If you would like to contact Robbie, you may do so here.