Sunday, July 6, 2014

William Goldman - The Princess Bride


I normally would begin book review by giving a nice summary of the novel. However, I feel I don't need to do this with The Princess Bride. If you don't know the story by now (since the movie plays on repeat on TNT from time to time), then this is clearly not the post for you. There will be no summary. There will be no review of key events.

Inconceivable you say? (Well, if you did say that, then you are indeed reading the right post.)

I have to admit, I am ashamed that I just now read this book. I have seen the movie countless times and could probably recite 90% of it from memory. So why did I never read the novel? A fair question. In my defense I can only say that I simple loved the movie so much as a child, that I was afraid my adult self would tear this novel to shreds and ruin my childhood love for Fezzik, Inigo (who I always thought was called Indigo), and yes... even Vizzini.

If you share in my fear, then please, dear reader, banish your fears immediately and find yourself a copy of this book - especially this edition. The actual reading of the novel will only make you love your favorite characters even more. You'll hear Andre the Giant's voice in Fezzik's words. You'll see Wallace Shawn's beady little eyes gleam with mischief when he switches his cup with Westley's. And you'll feel Mandy Patinkin's passion in the declaration that has become so famous. Do I have to even say it? Probably not, but what is a discussion of The Princess Bride without it?

"My name is Inigo Montoya. You killed my father. Prepare to die."

I love it. This particular edition was especially wonderful to me. William Goldman, who also was responsible for the movie's screenplay, gives readers an amazing look into Morgenstern's history and motive behind the book. He also gives us a glimpse behind the scenes of casting the film. I devoured every word. The back of the novel promises readers the sequel to The Princess Bride. I know I am not alone in hoping that the promise is fulfilled.

READ THIS BOOK.