Mossycoat.

[fly_to_dawn]

Philip Pullman's probably best known for His Dark Materials - well, definitely best known for them. So, I'm here to rec one of his little known children's books: Mossycoat. I first read this book when I was five; it was written for 1998's International Book Year, and I've always been in love with this fairytale. I only discovered that Mossycoat is actually an old English tale yesterday, when I reread the book and noticed the 'as retold by' on the cover. (It's strange when I think about it, because I also bought Jacqueline Wilson's retelling of Rapunzel, and was aware that it was a story that already existed. Mossycoat is just that unknown!) Mossycoat is a story with the classic persecuted heroine, much like Cinderella and other various stories which involve the unfortunate heroine being bullied by others, but getting a happy ending with a nice man (mostly of higher social class). It's attraction lies not in the plot - although it does have its charms - but in Philip Pullman's vivid descriptions and exquisite storytelling. From the exotic dresses to the old hawker to the wit in the language, it's a great read; the best part, of course, is the eponymous 'Mossycoat' - the product of the heroine's mother's love for her daughter. I've loved this book ever since I first read it, and even now, at seventeen, it still has a magic about it. I'd definitely recommend this for young readers and lovers of fairytales alike: here's its page on Amazon.co.uk.

Now, go forth and read.

Once upon a time there was a beautiful girl, whose mother made her a magical mossy coat...