Although I usually write about book to film adaptations, this month I wanted to talk about a brand new story that I have fallen for completely.
image via pixar.wikia.com
Merida. Oh, Merida. I love you so. I love your fiery bright red hair. I love your gumption. I love your sense of storytelling, I love your temper tantrums, I love that you detest form-fitting clothes and aren’t ready to get married. Most of all, I love your completely and totally realistic fights with your mother, who just doesn’t understand.
Much like I just don’t understand the mixed reviews for this film. Most of the complaints I’ve read seem to center around the constant arguing between Merida and her mother. Perhaps because the reviewers are mostly men, they don’t realize that fights between mothers and their teenage daughters are a way of life. I found this aspect of the film to be completely entertaining, not to mention realistic!
image via imabeautygeek.com
Merida is a Disney princess for a modern era. She doesn’t need a prince to rescue her, which is refreshing. She’s not entirely certain she’ll ever even want a prince, which is even more refreshing. Best of all, she’s spunky and smart, the kind of “princess” I would love to point out to the little girls in my library. And seriously: look at her hair!
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Despite the negative newspaper reviews, I went to see Brave with my teenaged daughters. We enjoyed it. In general, although I don’t think movie tie-in books are particularly well-written, I can tell you that every book I put on display that features that fiery redhead is checked out within hours. Clearly, she’s struck a chord.