Ofelia, a young girl in Spain in 1944, travels with her pregnant mother Carmen to a remote military outpost, where her new stepfather, Captain Vidal, a ruthless officer of Franco's army, is fighting a guerrilla resistance. Ofelia finds an ancient labyrinth, and a faun who tells her she is the lost princess of an underground realm and must pass three tasks to return. Written with Cornelia Funke, the novel expands del Toro's film, adding fairy tales and the stories behind the characters.
Readers who like dark fairy tales, historical fantasy, and the contrast between a child's imagination and fascist brutality will find a richer version of the story. It suits those who loved the film.
Balanced in tone; an easy read.
Best for readers like The Story Seeker. Which reader are you?
- Published
- 2019
- Language
- EN
