91 pages • 3 hours read
The Princess and the Goblin
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Book Brief
241
Novel • Fiction
Fantasy Kingdom • Medieval
1872
Middle grade
8-12 years
Super Short Summary
The Princess and the Goblin by George MacDonald is a Victorian children’s fantasy in which eight-year-old Princess Irene, raised in a farmhouse in the mountains, encounters humanlike goblins inhabiting underground caverns. She befriends Curdie, a miner boy who helps her navigate various dangers posed by the goblins, including plots to flood the mines and kidnap her. Their adventures are intertwined with magic, bravery, and friendship as they work to thwart the goblins' plans.
Fantastical
Adventurous
Mysterious
Heartwarming
Inspirational
Reviews & Readership
39,654 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
George MacDonald's The Princess and the Goblin enchants readers with its imaginative fairy tale setting and moral depth. Celebrated for its richly woven narrative and endearing characters, particularly Princess Irene and Curdie, it appeals to both children and adults. Critics, however, note a somewhat dated prose style that may challenge modern readers. Overall, it remains a beloved classic.
Who Should Read The Princess and the Goblin?
Fans of classic fantasy tales with moral undertones, such as those found in C.S. Lewis's The Chronicles of Narnia or J.R.R. Tolkien's The Hobbit, will appreciate George MacDonald's The Princess and the Goblin. The narrative blends whimsical adventure with profound wisdom, ideal for both children and nostalgic adult readers.
39,654 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Curdie
Curdie
A 12-year-old miner characterized by his bravery and quick thinking, who forms an important friendship with Irene as they face dangers together.
Grandmother
Grandmother
A mystical woman with a divine aura, often aiding Irene with magical tools and symbolic guidance, including a special thread and a ring.
The King-Papa
The King-Papa
Irene's father, depicted as a loving and wise ruler who deeply cares for his daughter and supports her friendship with Curdie.
Lootie
Lootie
Irene's nurse, who is lovingly devoted but often skeptical of Irene's stories about her mystical grandmother.
Curdie’s Mother and Father
Curdie’s Mother and Father
Supportive parents who trust and guide Curdie, with the mother in particular facilitating his understanding and growth in faith.
The Royal Goblin Family
The Royal Goblin Family
Antagonists in the story, consisting of a king, queen, Prince Harelip, and others, they plot against the humans but encounter their own downfall.
241
Novel • Fiction
Fantasy Kingdom • Medieval
1872
Middle grade
8-12 years
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