Title: Maleficent
Author: Elizabeth Rudnick
Published: April 29th 2014 by Disney Press
Synopsis from Goodreads:
A deluxe novelization of the Walt Disney Studios film Maleficent, starring Angelina Jolie. This visually dazzling live action film explores the origins of one of the most iconic Disney villains: Maleficent, the infamous fairy who curses Princess Aurora in Disney's animated classic Sleeping Beauty. This 'origin' story is told from Maleficent's perspective, intersecting with the classic in both familiar and unexpected ways. The movie stars Academy Award-winning actress Angelina Jolie as Maleficent, and is directed by two-time Oscar-winning production designer Robert Stromberg ( Avatar, Alice in Wonderland). The film co-stars Elle Fanning ( Super 8) as the Princess Aurora, and features Sharlto Copley ( District 9), Imelda Staunton ( Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix), and Juno Temple ( Atonement)
My Thoughts:
This was a refreshing take to the Sleeping Beauty fairytale. I thought it was unique to see the story through the point of view of Maleficent. I haven't watched Sleeping Beauty in a very long time so this book was like a new story to me. I was surprise to find out that she was a fairy in the first place. I thought she was a witch. The book started out with a back story of who Maleficent was and how she came to be the cold hearted villain. She had connections with the king who betrayed her. Coincidentally, the king was princess Aurora's father. Then Maleficent put a cursed on baby Aurora. Thus, the story continues like the original but I notice there was a twist to it. Her relationship with Aurora was deeper and meaningful than the original Sleeping Beauty. I also notice there was a twist to the ending. Let's just say that by the end of this book I feel for Maleficent and I really enjoy the ending. Overall, Maleficent is a great book and I'm hoping to watch the film soon.
