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Mihi Ever After #1
Mihi Ever After
Newbery Medalist Tae Keller delivers a middle grade fantasy adventure in Mihi Ever After about three girls who fall into a fairy tale world. Should they stay forever, or find a way to escape?
Mihi Whan Park loves fairy tales. She wants to be a princess more than anything, but everyone tells her she’s not the princess type. Then Mihi gets her shot: When she and her new friends Savannah and Reese discover a portal to a fairy tale realm, they get a chance to learn how to be princesses! But the fairy tale world turns out not to be the wonderful place Mihi imagined. Soon, Savannah and Reese decide they’re ready to go home, and Mihi has to decide where her loyalties lie: With her friends and her future at home, or with her princess dreams?
Mihi Whan Park loves fairy tales. She wants to be a princess more than anything, but everyone tells her she’s not the princess type. Then Mihi gets her shot: When she and her new friends Savannah and Reese discover a portal to a fairy tale realm, they get a chance to learn how to be princesses! But the fairy tale world turns out not to be the wonderful place Mihi imagined. Soon, Savannah and Reese decide they’re ready to go home, and Mihi has to decide where her loyalties lie: With her friends and her future at home, or with her princess dreams?
240 pages, Hardcover
First published November 8, 2022
About the author
Tae Keller
13 books473 followersTAE KELLER is the Newbery award winning and New York Times bestselling author of When You Trap a Tiger and The Science of Breakable Things. She grew up in Honolulu, Hawaii, where she subsisted on kimchi, purple rice, and stories. Now, she writes about biracial girls trying to find their voices, and lives in Seattle with her husband and a multitude of books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
September 4, 2022
This book isn’t just a middle grade novel about fairy tales & princesses; it’s an empowering tale of being brave enough to write your own life story!
March 3, 2024
This book is a big YAY! for me. So glad I picked this up!
4 / 5 Stars
Better Review to Come! :)
4 / 5 Stars
Better Review to Come! :)
March 11, 2023
✨ "Fairy tales aren't all roses. They're full of thorns too."
I had high hopes for this but wasn't feeling it much by the end. I appreciate how the author tried to put a fresh spin and feminist twist to classic fairytales (loved the references), but keyword: tried.
Great themes and representation, but I just wasn't completely invested and nothing in particular wowed me. Similar to Jennifer Chan Is Not Alone by the author, it's somehow lacking that magic touch.
I was torn between 3 stars and 3.5 stars, but then I asked myself if I would rush to read to sequel and my answer is no. Overall, it's an entertaining but forgettable adventure-fantasy book that maybe younger audiences might enjoy better.
Note: I recommend reading a physical copy so that you can fully take in the beautiful grayscale illustrations. I had a Netgalley ARC (thanks Macmillan Children's Publishing Group!) but decided to hold out for a physical copy at my library for this reason.
✨ "Homesickness isn't a fun emotion to feel, of course, but people are always drawn to it. For many, remembering the past is easier than facing the future."
I had high hopes for this but wasn't feeling it much by the end. I appreciate how the author tried to put a fresh spin and feminist twist to classic fairytales (loved the references), but keyword: tried.
Great themes and representation, but I just wasn't completely invested and nothing in particular wowed me. Similar to Jennifer Chan Is Not Alone by the author, it's somehow lacking that magic touch.
I was torn between 3 stars and 3.5 stars, but then I asked myself if I would rush to read to sequel and my answer is no. Overall, it's an entertaining but forgettable adventure-fantasy book that maybe younger audiences might enjoy better.
Note: I recommend reading a physical copy so that you can fully take in the beautiful grayscale illustrations. I had a Netgalley ARC (thanks Macmillan Children's Publishing Group!) but decided to hold out for a physical copy at my library for this reason.
✨ "Homesickness isn't a fun emotion to feel, of course, but people are always drawn to it. For many, remembering the past is easier than facing the future."
November 13, 2022
A fairy tale untelling
Recently I've read a bunch of fairy tale retellings. (Thank you, Marissa Meyer!) Tae Keller's Mihi Ever After made a refreshing change. In it, as the publisher tells us, Mihi and her new friends Savannah and Reese discover a portal to a fairy tale realm, and they get a chance to learn how to be princesses. If you were in the business of collecting fairy tale realms found in portal fantasy, you would judge this a fairly typical one. What happens there, though, is not.
Keller won a Newbery Medal for her novel When You Trap a Tiger. (Thus, the "Winner of the Newbery Medal" notation on the cover of Mihi Ever After accurately refers to author Tae Keller. The publishers are obviously being a little sneaky here, hoping you'll think this book is a Newbery Medalist.) When You Trap a Tiger fully deserves the honor -- it's an entrancing tale that combines Korean folklore with a real-life story. (My review.) But perhaps the most interesting part to me was Keller's Author's Note, in which she describes how her Halmoni (that's grandmother -- 할머니) told her stories of ghosts and tigers. When later in life she looked up these old Korean stories, she couldn't find her Halmoni's stories. "Maybe my halmoni had told different versions, and invented some entirely."
Thus Keller was launched on her career of literary crime: making new fairy tales. As I wrote in my review of Tiger
Blog review.
Recently I've read a bunch of fairy tale retellings. (Thank you, Marissa Meyer!) Tae Keller's Mihi Ever After made a refreshing change. In it, as the publisher tells us, Mihi and her new friends Savannah and Reese discover a portal to a fairy tale realm, and they get a chance to learn how to be princesses. If you were in the business of collecting fairy tale realms found in portal fantasy, you would judge this a fairly typical one. What happens there, though, is not.
Keller won a Newbery Medal for her novel When You Trap a Tiger. (Thus, the "Winner of the Newbery Medal" notation on the cover of Mihi Ever After accurately refers to author Tae Keller. The publishers are obviously being a little sneaky here, hoping you'll think this book is a Newbery Medalist.) When You Trap a Tiger fully deserves the honor -- it's an entrancing tale that combines Korean folklore with a real-life story. (My review.) But perhaps the most interesting part to me was Keller's Author's Note, in which she describes how her Halmoni (that's grandmother -- 할머니) told her stories of ghosts and tigers. When later in life she looked up these old Korean stories, she couldn't find her Halmoni's stories. "Maybe my halmoni had told different versions, and invented some entirely."
Thus Keller was launched on her career of literary crime: making new fairy tales. As I wrote in my review of Tiger
Keller respects and reveres her Korean heritage. However, she is also aware that in Korean culture women and girls are traditionally kept quiet and off-stage. ... In the Author's Note, Keller explains how she came to see the Tiger as a symbol of a girl's freedom. Thus the book combines respect for Korean tradition with a kind of rebellion against it.That, making fairy tales anew, is what Mihi Ever After is about. And if I gave any more detail, I would spoil it, so I'll leave it at that.
Blog review.
November 2, 2022
Thank you NetGalley and Macmillan Audio, Macmillan Young Listeners for accepting my request to audibly read and review Mihi Ever After.
Author: Tae Keller
Published: 11/08/2022
Narrator: Triya Leong
Genre: Children's Fiction
From the here and now, through the portal, and back -- adorable. Young kids struggling with the balance of friendships and self confidences enter a portal where various fairy tales are alive and somewhat different than we have been led to believe.
The narration was really enjoyable.
There are lessons learned in their travels and lessons that can be taught reading.
Absolutely giftable.
Author: Tae Keller
Published: 11/08/2022
Narrator: Triya Leong
Genre: Children's Fiction
From the here and now, through the portal, and back -- adorable. Young kids struggling with the balance of friendships and self confidences enter a portal where various fairy tales are alive and somewhat different than we have been led to believe.
The narration was really enjoyable.
There are lessons learned in their travels and lessons that can be taught reading.
Absolutely giftable.
October 25, 2022
Thank you Netgalley and Macmillan Audio for the review copy.
A middle grade fantasy about a Korean American girl, Mihi, who feels like she is a princess with her parents being a king and queen of a faraway land. I loved this one and it really touched my heart, especially the portrayal of experiences of Asian Americans have experienced as well as the lack of representation seen in movies and TV shows and fairytales which makes them as well as others feel that Asian Americans look too different to be "princess types."
I loved the magic/ fairytales turn this book took. It was really fun and interesting to imagine the world as well as the characters. It was also interesting reading about princess-hood and the competition between the trio about who will become the princess. It showed a lot of the trials in the growing friendship between the three and Mihi's journey between figuring out what is more important to her: her friends or becoming a princess, and the journey to get back home safely with her friends.
I would highly recommend this book to young readers!
A middle grade fantasy about a Korean American girl, Mihi, who feels like she is a princess with her parents being a king and queen of a faraway land. I loved this one and it really touched my heart, especially the portrayal of experiences of Asian Americans have experienced as well as the lack of representation seen in movies and TV shows and fairytales which makes them as well as others feel that Asian Americans look too different to be "princess types."
I loved the magic/ fairytales turn this book took. It was really fun and interesting to imagine the world as well as the characters. It was also interesting reading about princess-hood and the competition between the trio about who will become the princess. It showed a lot of the trials in the growing friendship between the three and Mihi's journey between figuring out what is more important to her: her friends or becoming a princess, and the journey to get back home safely with her friends.
I would highly recommend this book to young readers!
May 14, 2023
“Fairy tales aren’t all roses. They’re full of thorns too.”
🪄
Mihi loves playing make believe with fairy tales, but her friend is over it and leaves Mihi to play princess alone. She then finds new friends Savannah and Reese and immediately enter a fairy tale world full of magic and excitement. What Mihi once believed only to be part of her imagination comes true. In this magical world the girls are able to learn how to be a princess.why would they ever return to normalcy in the real world?
👑
This was an adorable early chapter book that empowers females be the lead in their own story. I love that it’s going to be a series because it’s going to connect with so many young readers.
🪄
Mihi loves playing make believe with fairy tales, but her friend is over it and leaves Mihi to play princess alone. She then finds new friends Savannah and Reese and immediately enter a fairy tale world full of magic and excitement. What Mihi once believed only to be part of her imagination comes true. In this magical world the girls are able to learn how to be a princess.why would they ever return to normalcy in the real world?
👑
This was an adorable early chapter book that empowers females be the lead in their own story. I love that it’s going to be a series because it’s going to connect with so many young readers.
November 7, 2022
Who doesn't want to be a princess? Mihi finds out: her soon-to-be-former BFF, that's who. Princesses are childish. Or something. Then, in the best Narnian fashion, Mihi and two potential new friends, find themselves going through the refrigerator into a world of storybook, one where Sleeping Beauty and the three Bears are alive and... well... sometimes friendly. Part of me is afraid this will become a series, and part of me hopes it does.
eARC provided by publisher via Edeleweiss.
eARC provided by publisher via Edeleweiss.
October 11, 2022
Mihi has always dreamed of being a princess, but according to her (former) best friend, she doesn't really look like a princess. She gets a chance to prove herself when she and a two new friends stumble upon a magic portal into fairy tale land and get the opportunity to create their own happily ever afters. Things aren't all as they appear, however, and soon the three girls find themselves fighting against the dark sides of fairy tales. Mihi has to decide what she's willing to give up to become a real princess. She thought she'd do anything, but is it worth friends, family, home, and free choice?
This clever story is primarily focused on growing up and learning what really matters, but it touches on a few other meaningful themes. I loved the subtle way that Mihi's appearance and culture are mentioned. I wouldn't have minded a few more details on what each character looked like, not just the three main characters—not to focus on appearance but to notice it and the ways that racial profiles can influence people's opinions. Yet the small notes that Mihi didn't look like the "princess type" really hit home as a comment on what we expect of our fairy tales. I also really appreciated the way that this book turned fairy tales to a new light, showing them as both instruments of cultural stability and places where we need to see change. Overall, I really enjoyed this book as a quick read. It has so much action and creativity. I particularly appreciated the Healing Orchard and the cake decorating. Tae Keller hasn't disappointed me so far, and I'll be delighted to share this book with my students to open discussions about what it means to notice cultural differences without making people feel lesser.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC. All opinions are my own.
This clever story is primarily focused on growing up and learning what really matters, but it touches on a few other meaningful themes. I loved the subtle way that Mihi's appearance and culture are mentioned. I wouldn't have minded a few more details on what each character looked like, not just the three main characters—not to focus on appearance but to notice it and the ways that racial profiles can influence people's opinions. Yet the small notes that Mihi didn't look like the "princess type" really hit home as a comment on what we expect of our fairy tales. I also really appreciated the way that this book turned fairy tales to a new light, showing them as both instruments of cultural stability and places where we need to see change. Overall, I really enjoyed this book as a quick read. It has so much action and creativity. I particularly appreciated the Healing Orchard and the cake decorating. Tae Keller hasn't disappointed me so far, and I'll be delighted to share this book with my students to open discussions about what it means to notice cultural differences without making people feel lesser.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC. All opinions are my own.
October 21, 2023
There are 12 million book series out there with similar gimmicks. I have the feeling that this was something the author wrote before she won the Newberry, and her publishers are taking advantage of name recognition to put this out there.
November 2, 2022
I loved this middle grade fantasy. Mihi and her group of friends fall into the adventure of a lifetime. Or is it? They end up into a fairytale world that wants to get rid of them. These young friends reminded me of myself. I loved them and their story. I would recommend this book. Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for an arc in exchange for my honest review
January 29, 2023
It was Whatever After meets The School For Good And Evil it was very magical it was beautiful, but overall, didn’t satisfy my “sweet tooth” it just wasn’t quite there Tae is a excellent author and a Newberry Medalist, but this one didn’t really get to me Mihi was a colourful character.
September 26, 2022
Mihi is a fourth grader who lives with her family, including her grandparents, above the pet store they own. She loves princesses and is just sure that she's meant to be one someday. Sadly, her best friend, Genevieve, has decided that princesses are too babyish to like and told Mihi that Mihi that she'll never be a princess because she's "just not the princess type." Determined to prove Genevieve wrong, Mihi takes on a challenge, breaks a school rule, and gets stuck in detention, which turns out to be indoor recess in the library. Luckily for Mihi, there she meets Savannah and Reece and together they discover a portal into fairy tale land.
At first it's exciting and new, but the longer they're in fairy tale land, the more dangerous it becomes and the more tempted Mihi is to stay. Should they stay and become princesses, or should they find a way back home?
Written with the same expertise and ingenuity as her other middle grade books, Keller captures what it's like to be a kid with a dream. Readers will relate to Mihi's passion and desire to achieve her dream, as well as her longing for true friends. They will understand her choices, good and bad, and with Mihi, learn what true friendship really is. All of this with a dash of adventure thrown in! i devoured this book in just a couple hours and I'm excited to share it with all my patrons at the library who enjoy middle grade fiction. If you like adventure, princesses, fairy tales, and family in your MG books, definitely give this one a try! 4.5 stars
Disclaimer: I received a free electronic copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
At first it's exciting and new, but the longer they're in fairy tale land, the more dangerous it becomes and the more tempted Mihi is to stay. Should they stay and become princesses, or should they find a way back home?
Written with the same expertise and ingenuity as her other middle grade books, Keller captures what it's like to be a kid with a dream. Readers will relate to Mihi's passion and desire to achieve her dream, as well as her longing for true friends. They will understand her choices, good and bad, and with Mihi, learn what true friendship really is. All of this with a dash of adventure thrown in! i devoured this book in just a couple hours and I'm excited to share it with all my patrons at the library who enjoy middle grade fiction. If you like adventure, princesses, fairy tales, and family in your MG books, definitely give this one a try! 4.5 stars
Disclaimer: I received a free electronic copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
April 17, 2022
A somewhat predictable story of a Korean-American middle-school girl who wants to be a princess, despite her former best friend outgrowing their imaginary play and also despite fearing she's not princess material. She finds new friends and grows in both herself confidence and her readiness to move on in her life. As in many fairy tales, this novel is more focused on plot action, with the character development being very pointed and obvious. Still, a good story for middle grade readers who were princess obsessed in their younger days.
November 8, 2022
Everything about this book - from the story to the book cover - is simply adorable!
I know I said recently (yesterday, in fact) that "I hate when adult narrators attempt a childlike voice, because it never sounds like anything other than an adult pretending badly." Yes, that's a direct quote, and yes, I take it back. Triya Leong needs to be at the top of everyone's narration hire list. I firmly believed until looking her up after finishing the audiobook that she is in her teens, because she nails a younger voice. A realistic young-sounding narrator who does silly voices makes such a world of difference for the story!
Not that the story itself needs help. Mihi is an utterly lovable adventurous main character who dreams big. She makes instant friends with two other girls at school, and they immediately set off into a magical world. The trio meets characters from familiar stories and faces a host of fairytale trappings: singing, a dangerous forest, talking animals, and more. Older feminine princesses are contrasted with newer independent heroines, and neither preference is condemned. Woven throughout their adventure is a journey of identity and navigating others' expectations, with a message of affirmation and empowerment. The girls push back against a narrative that says they aren't the "princess type" or that they are limited to existing princesses that look like them. It's beautiful!
It's a little thing, but I love
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for an audio ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I know I said recently (yesterday, in fact) that "I hate when adult narrators attempt a childlike voice, because it never sounds like anything other than an adult pretending badly." Yes, that's a direct quote, and yes, I take it back. Triya Leong needs to be at the top of everyone's narration hire list. I firmly believed until looking her up after finishing the audiobook that she is in her teens, because she nails a younger voice. A realistic young-sounding narrator who does silly voices makes such a world of difference for the story!
Not that the story itself needs help. Mihi is an utterly lovable adventurous main character who dreams big. She makes instant friends with two other girls at school, and they immediately set off into a magical world. The trio meets characters from familiar stories and faces a host of fairytale trappings: singing, a dangerous forest, talking animals, and more. Older feminine princesses are contrasted with newer independent heroines, and neither preference is condemned. Woven throughout their adventure is a journey of identity and navigating others' expectations, with a message of affirmation and empowerment. The girls push back against a narrative that says they aren't the "princess type" or that they are limited to existing princesses that look like them. It's beautiful!
It's a little thing, but I love
Thank you to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for an audio ARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 14, 2022
What a charming story! Though it's a YA, I'd suggest it for everyone.
Mihi Whan Park loves princesses. Doesn't just love them, wants to be one. But is she the "princess type"? Her best friend doesn't think so, which is when their friendship ends.
Finding herself stuck in the library for doing something forbidden, she makes the acquaintance of two more students, Savannah and Reese. Together, they once again find themselves doing something forbidden. This time, it's raiding the refrigerator in the librarian's lounge for candy. It's then they discover that the fridge is a magic portal that takes them into a land of fairy tales. They discover that they are "Greys" traveling in a rainbow realm where the fairy tales they have all heard come to life. It isn't all good, however, when Mihi causes a subtle change in one that leads to catastrophic consequences. Or does it?
I found it fitting that this magic land was discovered in the library—the place that opened up all of my life's possibilities as well. Giving young readers this subtle clue of the possibilities gained from time in a library, it progresses on to how Mihi ultimately discovers herself and the value of having friends who accept her as she is. A wonderful tale of adventure and discovery, this book also portrays valuable life lessons.
I got this book through a Goodreads Giveaway. It will make its way next to my grandchildren, with a note to their parents to read it to them often.
This book is wonderful in every way, from its colorful jacket to the interior illustrations and beautiful formatting, all of which combine with the engaging story to make this a must-read for all ages.
Mihi Whan Park loves princesses. Doesn't just love them, wants to be one. But is she the "princess type"? Her best friend doesn't think so, which is when their friendship ends.
Finding herself stuck in the library for doing something forbidden, she makes the acquaintance of two more students, Savannah and Reese. Together, they once again find themselves doing something forbidden. This time, it's raiding the refrigerator in the librarian's lounge for candy. It's then they discover that the fridge is a magic portal that takes them into a land of fairy tales. They discover that they are "Greys" traveling in a rainbow realm where the fairy tales they have all heard come to life. It isn't all good, however, when Mihi causes a subtle change in one that leads to catastrophic consequences. Or does it?
I found it fitting that this magic land was discovered in the library—the place that opened up all of my life's possibilities as well. Giving young readers this subtle clue of the possibilities gained from time in a library, it progresses on to how Mihi ultimately discovers herself and the value of having friends who accept her as she is. A wonderful tale of adventure and discovery, this book also portrays valuable life lessons.
I got this book through a Goodreads Giveaway. It will make its way next to my grandchildren, with a note to their parents to read it to them often.
This book is wonderful in every way, from its colorful jacket to the interior illustrations and beautiful formatting, all of which combine with the engaging story to make this a must-read for all ages.
December 16, 2022
First sentence: Mihi Whan Park was a princess. Well, kind of. To be more precise: Mihi Whan Park felt like a princess, like someone important, someone who mattered, someone who belonged--even if she hadn't quite found her palace yet. Deep in her heart, Mihi felt like long-lost royalty, born to a king and queen in a far-off fantasyland. Of course, if you asked anyone else, they'd tell you Mihi was...just a girl. A four-foot tall Korean girl, born to the owners of Park Pet Rescue in Medford, Massachusetts. But those were pesky details.
Premise/plot: Mihi, our protagonist, LOVES, LOVES, LOVES fairy tales. She doesn't just love to read fairy tales [for fun]. She loves to pretend to be a princess with her friends. But while others seem to be outgrowing this need to be a princess, well, Mihi isn't. When a recess fail leads to inside recess in the school library [as a punishment?!?!], Mihi meets two friends Savannah and Reese. In search of the librarian's candy stash, these three accidentally stumble into a magical portal that leads them to another world....
My thoughts: I really enjoyed this one SO SO SO SO much. It was super fun. It is the start of a new series. I loved spending time in this other fantasy world. It was full of surprises! It wasn't quite like I was expecting. It was a little more edgy and full of dangers than I was expecting for a children's book. I liked that about it. It wasn't just a rosy-rosy-comfy-cozy sweet read. I enjoyed all of the characters.
Premise/plot: Mihi, our protagonist, LOVES, LOVES, LOVES fairy tales. She doesn't just love to read fairy tales [for fun]. She loves to pretend to be a princess with her friends. But while others seem to be outgrowing this need to be a princess, well, Mihi isn't. When a recess fail leads to inside recess in the school library [as a punishment?!?!], Mihi meets two friends Savannah and Reese. In search of the librarian's candy stash, these three accidentally stumble into a magical portal that leads them to another world....
My thoughts: I really enjoyed this one SO SO SO SO much. It was super fun. It is the start of a new series. I loved spending time in this other fantasy world. It was full of surprises! It wasn't quite like I was expecting. It was a little more edgy and full of dangers than I was expecting for a children's book. I liked that about it. It wasn't just a rosy-rosy-comfy-cozy sweet read. I enjoyed all of the characters.
March 14, 2023
I adored How to Catch a Tiger, so I snagged this off the shelf the moment I saw it. I had no idea that she recently came out with another book! How exciting.
The opening pages felt made for M. but the more I read on, the less enamoured I became of the writing. It lacked the polish and depth of Keller's previous book. Perhaps mine was just a weird copy, but even the font was inconsistent in size (not on purpose) and there were repetitive phrases... the girls "square their shoulders" too often to signify that they're serious and choosing to be brave. The writing doesn't allow for immersion. So it felt more like a draft than a finished piece. I remain hopeful, though, and will check out the second book to see if it gets better.
The story itself felt shallow too, esp. for an author that I know can create layers. The characters lacked the kind of complexity that can make a children's chapter book so enthralling and impressive. The friendships had potential, but each character was such an archetype that it all felt a bit ham-fisted. I longed for more elegance and nuance from her.
The premise is an interesting one, but the fairy tale world needs more mapping and depth, too. I don't yet trust that there is a masterful plan underlying everything... the world isn't tight or built out with attention to detail and connections. I appreciate how she left a few mysteries open for the subsequent books to hopefully reveal, but alas, this one wasn't what I was hoping it to be...
The opening pages felt made for M. but the more I read on, the less enamoured I became of the writing. It lacked the polish and depth of Keller's previous book. Perhaps mine was just a weird copy, but even the font was inconsistent in size (not on purpose) and there were repetitive phrases... the girls "square their shoulders" too often to signify that they're serious and choosing to be brave. The writing doesn't allow for immersion. So it felt more like a draft than a finished piece. I remain hopeful, though, and will check out the second book to see if it gets better.
The story itself felt shallow too, esp. for an author that I know can create layers. The characters lacked the kind of complexity that can make a children's chapter book so enthralling and impressive. The friendships had potential, but each character was such an archetype that it all felt a bit ham-fisted. I longed for more elegance and nuance from her.
The premise is an interesting one, but the fairy tale world needs more mapping and depth, too. I don't yet trust that there is a masterful plan underlying everything... the world isn't tight or built out with attention to detail and connections. I appreciate how she left a few mysteries open for the subsequent books to hopefully reveal, but alas, this one wasn't what I was hoping it to be...
June 17, 2023
A sweet middle-grade novel about learning to love yourself for the unique person you are, and embracing your passions regardless of what others think. It’s also about finding true friends who have your back and who love and support you. You don't have to just follow the path set before you - you can seek adventure, and see the good in the world, and try to change things for the better. But it’s important to remember where you come from, and to not put your own wishes above the well-being of others.
It was interesting to visit this version of fairy tale land with Mihi and her friends, with its positives and negatives. Sure, there’s magic and princesses and happily ever afters, but not for everyone. And sometimes, people just want to live happy, content lives without excess or struggle. Hopefully Sleeping Beauty can help find a way to bring some equality to that land, now that she’s broken out of her own fairy tale. Also, it can’t be a coincidence that the doorway to the Rainbow World is in Mrs. L’s library - could she be one of the people who helped seal the lands apart and created the secret doors? Could she be Goldilocks?
It was interesting to visit this version of fairy tale land with Mihi and her friends, with its positives and negatives. Sure, there’s magic and princesses and happily ever afters, but not for everyone. And sometimes, people just want to live happy, content lives without excess or struggle. Hopefully Sleeping Beauty can help find a way to bring some equality to that land, now that she’s broken out of her own fairy tale. Also, it can’t be a coincidence that the doorway to the Rainbow World is in Mrs. L’s library - could she be one of the people who helped seal the lands apart and created the secret doors? Could she be Goldilocks?
July 1, 2022
A cute and sweet story about a girl who just wants to be a princess.
Mihi's always been told that she's just not "the princess type" - but will a magical journey to a new land with her new friends prove them wrong?
This was a really sweet story. Mihi and her friends were adorable characters that just wanted to fit in, but learn that maybe they don't have to. Whether it be due to their skin tone or behaviors, all three girls are a bit of outcasts, and have always been told that they just aren't the 'type' to be a princess, despite sharing a dream to be. I think that the clear lesson about not *needing* to be a princess was important, rather than just making all the girls princesses in the end. Being yourself is more than enough.
I would have loved to see more than just the abrupt character development the girls faced, as well as seeing more backstory for each of them, but thoroughly enjoyed it all the same!
Mihi's always been told that she's just not "the princess type" - but will a magical journey to a new land with her new friends prove them wrong?
This was a really sweet story. Mihi and her friends were adorable characters that just wanted to fit in, but learn that maybe they don't have to. Whether it be due to their skin tone or behaviors, all three girls are a bit of outcasts, and have always been told that they just aren't the 'type' to be a princess, despite sharing a dream to be. I think that the clear lesson about not *needing* to be a princess was important, rather than just making all the girls princesses in the end. Being yourself is more than enough.
I would have loved to see more than just the abrupt character development the girls faced, as well as seeing more backstory for each of them, but thoroughly enjoyed it all the same!
October 29, 2022
Triya Leong’s voice is perfect in the audiobook version of this middle grade fantasy adventure. Her youthful timbre and cadence make the story flow smoothly. Leong’s distinctive voices make it easy to keep track of the characters. Her expression and pacing are spot on!
Tae Keller’s first entry in a new series features Mihi Whan Park who is a huge fan of princesses. Yet, people keep telling her she’s not the princess type. When she and two girls who just might turn out to be friends fall into a fairy tale realm, will they become princesses? Keller’s inclusive writing will be a real empathy builder and fits perfectly in a middle school library’s diverse book collection. Students of Asian descent who love princesses will be happy to see themselves in this book. Not everything is as it seems.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the chance to read this audio arc in exchange for an honest review.
Tae Keller’s first entry in a new series features Mihi Whan Park who is a huge fan of princesses. Yet, people keep telling her she’s not the princess type. When she and two girls who just might turn out to be friends fall into a fairy tale realm, will they become princesses? Keller’s inclusive writing will be a real empathy builder and fits perfectly in a middle school library’s diverse book collection. Students of Asian descent who love princesses will be happy to see themselves in this book. Not everything is as it seems.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the chance to read this audio arc in exchange for an honest review.
February 26, 2023
I said that I was done with middle literature for a while but this book was available and staring at me so I just had to check it out and I'm glad I did. And my second book by Tae Keller! I'm
Somehow this book also hit sooo close home, especially with all the Disney references. But it highlighted things that are otherwise overlooked. Like how actually horrible the conflict in Disney princess movies can get. And sometimes your happily ever after is right around the corner and doesn't have to be as elaborate as a fairytale! And I can't wait for the next adventure where they maybe try to get the amulet back? I really want to write more about this book but for some reason, my head feels swollen and i need to lie down lol, maybe in a reread before the second book is out ill provide a more in-depth review? I'm going to try to email the author for an advanced copy! I hope I can get it!
5 out of 5 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Somehow this book also hit sooo close home, especially with all the Disney references. But it highlighted things that are otherwise overlooked. Like how actually horrible the conflict in Disney princess movies can get. And sometimes your happily ever after is right around the corner and doesn't have to be as elaborate as a fairytale! And I can't wait for the next adventure where they maybe try to get the amulet back? I really want to write more about this book but for some reason, my head feels swollen and i need to lie down lol, maybe in a reread before the second book is out ill provide a more in-depth review? I'm going to try to email the author for an advanced copy! I hope I can get it!
5 out of 5 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
June 27, 2022
MIhi Ever After by Tae Keller addresses the issue of not feeling as if you fit in. Mihi, is a Korean-American girl who more than anything wants to be a princess. Several people tell her that she doesn't fit the princess mold. One day, when she is with 2 new friends who also don't quite fit the princess mold and are also interested in fairy tales, they come upon a magic portal to the fairy tale world where they encounter all sorts of fairy tale characters and have a plethora of dangerous adventures.
I like that this book isn't too long. I hope that it will reach those readers that are past beginning chapter books, but don't yet have the endurance to read the longer novels. I do worry that boys will be turned off by the princess aspect of it, thinking it is a "girl" book even though there is a lot of action in it. I hope there will be more books to make it a series!
I like that this book isn't too long. I hope that it will reach those readers that are past beginning chapter books, but don't yet have the endurance to read the longer novels. I do worry that boys will be turned off by the princess aspect of it, thinking it is a "girl" book even though there is a lot of action in it. I hope there will be more books to make it a series!
November 28, 2022
Though based in the Fairy Tale world, this book is about three young girls who find ways to empower each other. Mihi is dumped by her only friend at the start of the book. More mature eyes will say "good riddance," but Mihi is devastated. She doesn't fit in at her school. During a detention, she meets two other girls who don't fit the mold either. The three end up in a different world and are offered the opportunity to become princesses. Mihi learns some hard lessons on balancing friendship and chasing a dream. Each of the girls has times of bravery and weakness and learn to rely on each other and build trust together.
I appreciate Keller's writing style. Middle grade readers will be hooked and will connect to these three characters. She also offers an interesting look at fairy tale life for readers to process.
I appreciate Keller's writing style. Middle grade readers will be hooked and will connect to these three characters. She also offers an interesting look at fairy tale life for readers to process.
June 20, 2023
Charming fantasy story where 3 misfits enter a portal to a land where fairytale characters are real. As they journey through this land, they learn to love themselves and become good friends. Mihi was a great protagonist to follow because she’s creative, determined, passionate, but also flawed. She makes numerous mistakes that put herself and her new friends in danger. Her friends Savannah and Reese. I especially loved how different they all are from each other. The audiobook is fantastic as the narrator does each voice so well! She really brought the fairytale aspect to life.
This was a great first book to a fantasy series. I plan to read the next book to see what other adventures these three go on.
This is categorized as middle grade but I would say it is on the younger side - perhaps 4th to 6th grade.
This was a great first book to a fantasy series. I plan to read the next book to see what other adventures these three go on.
This is categorized as middle grade but I would say it is on the younger side - perhaps 4th to 6th grade.
August 10, 2024
(3.5 rounded up to 4)
A cute story featuring girls who are looking to both fit in and matter. Believing being princesses could be the answer once swept away to a land of fairytales via a portal in their school librarian’s refrigerator, Mihi, Reese, and Savannah dare to hope. But instead of only good magic and easy answers, the world is full of lies, betrayal, and danger. The girls, particularly Mihi, find that it’s okay for dreams—and fairytales—to change while staying true to your character. There are tons of positive messages within the novel on friendship, authenticity, acceptance of oneself and others, family. At times, the lessons are a bit “on the nose” but it works for the intended audience.
Fans of fairytales, stories of friendship, and portal fantasies will enjoy this book. Highly recommend for young readers moving from chapter books to more complex middle grade titles.
A cute story featuring girls who are looking to both fit in and matter. Believing being princesses could be the answer once swept away to a land of fairytales via a portal in their school librarian’s refrigerator, Mihi, Reese, and Savannah dare to hope. But instead of only good magic and easy answers, the world is full of lies, betrayal, and danger. The girls, particularly Mihi, find that it’s okay for dreams—and fairytales—to change while staying true to your character. There are tons of positive messages within the novel on friendship, authenticity, acceptance of oneself and others, family. At times, the lessons are a bit “on the nose” but it works for the intended audience.
Fans of fairytales, stories of friendship, and portal fantasies will enjoy this book. Highly recommend for young readers moving from chapter books to more complex middle grade titles.
December 17, 2022
Are you interested in:
A middle grade novel that leans slightly towards the age group that still enjoys chapter books?
Hearing a different spin about what makes a princess while leaning on the fairytales that we all know well?
CUTE is the word that best describes this story. Mihi finds new friends after her former bestie tells her that she doesn’t fit the idea of a princess. The world she and her new friends encounter thereafter is nicely whimsical yet not fully encompassing of each of their needs. It should be interesting to catch up with these lingering points as the series progresses.
A middle grade novel that leans slightly towards the age group that still enjoys chapter books?
Hearing a different spin about what makes a princess while leaning on the fairytales that we all know well?
CUTE is the word that best describes this story. Mihi finds new friends after her former bestie tells her that she doesn’t fit the idea of a princess. The world she and her new friends encounter thereafter is nicely whimsical yet not fully encompassing of each of their needs. It should be interesting to catch up with these lingering points as the series progresses.
July 19, 2023
4 stars (I really liked it)
Ahh, apparently I had an arc of this and forgot. Doh!
I enjoyed this middle grade fantasy. It dealt a lot with feelings of belonging, especially from people who looked or acted differently from the status quo. The whole fairy tale world was intriguing and fun.
My only complaints are that the girls have insta-friendship and act like they have been friends forever even though they /just/ talked to one another for the first time. Also that the pacing at the end seemed rushed. Would love to purchase for my school library and I'm excited to read the second in the series!
Ahh, apparently I had an arc of this and forgot. Doh!
I enjoyed this middle grade fantasy. It dealt a lot with feelings of belonging, especially from people who looked or acted differently from the status quo. The whole fairy tale world was intriguing and fun.
My only complaints are that the girls have insta-friendship and act like they have been friends forever even though they /just/ talked to one another for the first time. Also that the pacing at the end seemed rushed. Would love to purchase for my school library and I'm excited to read the second in the series!
September 28, 2022
The book is not for young readers alone. As an adult, I enjoy the book. It tells a fantastic story about Mihi who wants to be a princess. She and her friends have been to a magical place where her dream can become a reality. Later, it was a total mistake and she and her friends need to find a way home.
To me reading this book can also be a way to learn about being careful about what your dreams are. Also find a way to do what's right for yourself and others like Mihi and her friends.
Thanks to the publishers and NetGalley for allowing me to read this book in exchange for a review.
To me reading this book can also be a way to learn about being careful about what your dreams are. Also find a way to do what's right for yourself and others like Mihi and her friends.
Thanks to the publishers and NetGalley for allowing me to read this book in exchange for a review.
November 16, 2022
Thank you to Goodreads for this advanced copy. My daughter read this book and enjoyed it! This is a story about a girl who wants to be a princess but everyone is telling her she is not the princess type. So she goes to a fairy tale world where she can become one. Unfortunately, this may not happen and her dreams may be ruined. She comes to a much better conclusion at the end! The only thing my daughter didn't like was some violence at the end that she didn't think needed to be a part of the story.
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