By James Riley

This has got to be another of my favorite books of all time, at least, it was in middle school. My parents got it for my younger brother for Christmas and I stole it as soon as possible and probably finished the series before he did. It’s one of the best fairytale mashup/retellings I’ve ever read, and this is coming from someone who read all of the Sisters Grimm books (this is ten times better I’m sorry).

Jack has spent the majority of his life training to rescue a princess. What else is a guy going to do if he lives in the world of fairytales? Unfortunately, he’s kind of a failure at that. But luckily, an opportunity drops right into his lap when a princess falls from the sky practically on top of him. At least, Jack thinks she’s a princess. What else would her Punk Princess shirt mean? (You have no idea how hard I tried to get my hands on a shirt that said that and failed 😭) So Jack decides to rescue the princess (and we all know how we wake up sleeping princesses).

As one would expect, the “princess” is none to pleased at her situation. She’s even less pleased when she realizes that the only person who can help her escape from the huntsman who is chasing her and rescue her grandmother is……..Jack! Yay!

So Jack and the princess set off on their quest, in which they meet up with countless other fairytale characters who I’m sure you will recognize. It’s ridiculously funny and you will fall in love with the characters – they’re so well written. You will find yourself wanting more, which is great because it’s a trilogy!

Twice Upon a Time and Once Upon the End (the rest of the trilogy) are both amazing books as well. The writing, the humor, and the plot are so consistently high quality, which is why James Riley is one of my favorite middle grade authors. If you decide to read the entire series (which you totally should) you will love the ending. Does anyone else love prophecies/ultimatums, even if they’re a bit cliche? Chapter 22 of Once Upon the End, anyone? IYKYK 😊

Only “content warning” is hilarious romance, but I would say that it is appropriate for everyone!

General Stats:

• Genre: Fantasy (fairytale)
• Book 1 of 3
• Age: 6th grade and above
• My rating: ★★★★★