The Enchanted Forest Chronicles: (Boxed Set)

Was gifted this off my wishlist <3 I used to read these books when I was little and absolutely loved the idea of a princess that wasn't your typical girl and characters who didn't fit stereotypes. The whole series is about breaking out of the mold and doing what's unexpected <3 Great read, and i'm super glad to have the whole collection now that i'm older, so that i'll have them for my own kids in the future :D

this is about a princess who's captured by a dragon, and then chooses to stay with the dragon rather than wait to get rescued by a prince. in fact when a prince comes to rescue her in the first book she turns him away, all of them. the series follows the pattern of a typical 'princess story' and the princess is put in a bunch of stereotypical princess situations, but then she defies the stereotype and takes charge of her own life and makes things happen for herself. basically she beats up her own bad guys, with her brain. there are boys in the series, but she isn't waiting for them to save the day, she takes them along for the ride. the dragon who kidnapped her ends up being one of her good friends.

it's a fun series i really enjoyed in elementary school, but it an appropriate read for anyone interested in the plot (as are all stories... age ranges close your mind). a light fun read, i recommend.

It has been a long time since I've read these books, but when I saw it on the store I had to give it a review, because it had such an impact on me as a young man. The protagonist is a young, strong woman--so if you have a daughter get these books for her, she'll love them. Beautiful fantasy series avoiding any cliches, probably better for younger people, but I think older people can enjoy it too.

"Always be polite to a dragon. It's harder than it sounds. Dragon etiquette is incredibly complicated, and if you make a mistake the dragon eats you." These are the words, or rather writings, of my favorite author, Patricia Wrede. I think it means be nice to everyone because if you don't, there will be bad consequences. Patricia was born in Chicago Illinois without thought of writing at all. She started writing in the seventh grade and graduated college without taking any English classes. She has written and published thirteen books including The Enchanted Forest Chronicles. This set of four books is the best sires ever made! The first, Dealing with Dragons, is about a princess named Cimorene who, instead of being short and blonde with blue eyes was tall with brunette hair and brown eyes. She didn't like the etiquette and sewing her father (the King of Linderwall) made her go through. Instead she liked the secret classes she took, fencing and magic. Cimorene volunteered to be a dragon's princess and became Kazul's. Meanwhile, wizards poison the king of dragons, Tokoz with the help of a dragon named Worog. From then, things go crazy involving Collins Stone, another use for soapy water with lemon juice, and the punishment for a bad dragon. I highly recommend you read the next three masterpieces, Searching for Dragons, Calling on Dragons, and Talking to Dragons. Patricia's theme for the sires is probably that it might take a long time to finish a task, but it is worth it in the end. I would recommend this book to everyone that has a great imagination. Specifically ages eight to sixteen. It is an outstanding sires that will take you all over the magical world!

They're funny, they're charming, they're clever, and they've got great cover illustrations. I love them. Don't get me wrong, I adore good old fairy tales as well, but you take that and give it a twist, and you have the best parody ever! I only have one problem, and that is with the first book. Cimorene seems to blink every two pages over something. Yes, I am perfectly well aware that blinking is a normal funtion of everyday life, but why it's necessary to tell the reader that Cimorene's doing it every chance you get is beyond me. You don't hear "Cimorene inhaled" anywhere in the book. Regardless. They're absolutely worth the money, although I lucked out when my aunt picked up the complete volume for me at her used bookstore. If I didn't own them, I would buy them. And I advise anyone with a sense of humour and a taste for light fantasy to do so as well.

Well, i have to tell you, i am no fantasy fan. 9 out of 10 times i will continue to choose a good Science Fiction book over Fantasy, but the Enchanted Forest books are DEFINITELY the exception to that. My older cousin lent me them in an omnibus a llloooonnngg time ago, ima guess like 2001-02 (which is long for me, cause im only 19), i remember he gave me a brief over view of the world the books take place in, im guessing cause i asked him if he had any books like "The Lord of The Rings" and he told me about this. I was apprehensive at first, being like 12 or 13, i wasn't sure if i'd even be down for reading about dragons, wizards, and what not, or even if it could hold my interest for more than the first 3 pages (as his version had a plain color cover, containing all of the books in it, pretty much looked old as dirt), but i forced myself to open up and start reading after he encouraged me to barrow it until i was done with it. AND MAN, WHAT AN IMAGINATION OF THE AUTHOR! I mean really, a forest that moves? Magic, dragons, enchanted forrest critters, its amazing at how he flawlessly included it all in his writing! He goes into so much detail as to actually talk about the science of dragons and magic (if my memory serves me right). And its not an impossibly intellectual read either, not that thats bad, but at the time i was like 10 or 11 ( i'm no child prodigy, trust me) and i could NOT put the book down. I wanted to know more and more about this world, i wanted to see where the story goes and couldn't help but keep reading it well past my bedtime. I burnt through the omnibus in probably a month or two, then kept going back to read little excerpts over and over again until i gave it back to him (fter probably a year or two of procrastinating). The only thing that really sucks about this series is that (from what i remember my cousins girlfriend saying) the author is dead. And last time i checked (Which was about the time i finished), no one has even attempted tackling his world, and maybe it should stay that way, or not. I WANTED TO KNOW MORE WHEN THE LAST BOOK ENDED!!!! Anyways, this series is superbly written, and is DEFINITELY a reason why today i love writing stories. I love these books, and i hope to buy the complete set soon, as my cousin i think has lost his omnibus of the series. READ THIS !!!

I read this book and the others in the series over and over when I was younger. It was one of my favorite "fairy tales," combining fantasy, princesses, and girl power. The main character was determinedly sensible about completely ridiculous situations, and was able to launch herself on adventures while still employing common sense. It was nice to read a fantasy story where the heroine didn't run around reacting on emotion to everything. Moreover, the author has an energetic and funny way of writing that keeps the story moving quickly. Even now, years later, I'd still buy another book in the series if one were to ever be released.

The main character in the book Dealing with Dragons is Princess Cimorene. She is a fencing, Latin reading, magic using, juggling, princess that also cooks cherry jubilee and volunteers for dragons. In the fairytale world that she has grown up in; there are many thing that are considered improper for a princess to do. Cimorene enjoys doing almost everything that is improper, unlike her fellow princesses that are also living as captured dragons' princesses. While she is Kazul's princess she discovers many things about herself, dragons, and her world. Some of what Cimorene learns is the correct behavior in different societies, and some are things that are just silly in hers. While Cimorene is making all of her different friends she discovers universal aspects; such as being polite, standing up for what is right, and it is always best to be yourself. This book is an award wining story and has honorable mention on multiple book lists since 1990 when it was first published. It could even be categorized as a Women's Rights book, do to the freeing of the female stereotype the character goes through. Any age of women can enjoy this book for its diversity in themes and humor, along with the fantasy world were dragons are intelligent magical creatures.

Cimorene may be a bit unconventional as a princess, she's practical and independent, she uses her head. She voluntarily becomes the personal assistant to a dragon. In the first book she has to deal with would-be resucers who won't take 'no' for an answer, and medeling wizards.
I really can't tell you what happens in the following books without ruining it for you. Whether your buying these books for your child or for yourself, you won't be disapointed. Also, don't be afraid to get this for a younger child who reads at a higher level, there isn't anything questionable in these books as far as maturity content. It's simply young-adult fiction because it has the power to hold older readers imaginations as well as young readers.

Fairy tales and high fantasy have their own tropes -- wizards, witches, princesses, dragons and princes coming to the rescue of damsels.

But none of them will ever look quite the same after reading Patricia C. Wrede's "The Enchanted Forest Chronicles: Dealing with Dragons / Searching for Dragons / Calling on Dragons / Talking to Dragons," bringing together four charming little fantasy stories. Wrede cleverly pokes fun at all the things you've come to expect from princess tales, including the now-cliched rebellious princess trope.

"Dealing with Dragons" introduces Princess Cimorene, youngest daughter of the king of Linderwall. Like most medieval tomboys, Cimorene is considered rough, unseemly and stubborn -- she wants to fight with swords and learn magic. On the advice from a magic frog, she goes out in search of a dragon to be housekeeper for. But when she's not sending away valiant knights, she's dealing with some very troublesome wizards.

"Searching For Dragons" picks up when the dragon Kazul goes mysteriously missing. Cimorene is, unsurprisingly, very concerned about this and wants to find her. Enter Mendanbar, a young king as unconventional as Cimorene -- not to mention in need of a wife. But even though he goes along to find Kazul, with wizards and laughter all around, he'll find that he's much more interested in Cimorene.

"Calling on Dragons" skips ahead to when Cimorene and Mendanbar are mrried, and Queen Cimorene is pregnant. All is right, right? Wrong. Magic is vanishing in the Enchanted Forest; the king's sword has been stolen. To combat the troublesome wizards, Morwen the witch teams up with Cimorene, Kazul, Telemain the Magician, and a rabbit called Killer.

"Talking to Dragons" skips ahead even further, to when Daystar is sent off by his mom Cimorene with only a magic sword. Poor kid -- he has to help King Mendanbar escape from an evil wizard's spell, without knowing that Mendanbar is his father. He teams up with a hot-tempered firewitch, Shiara, a dragon, a lizard, and a rather annoying princess. Can Daystar clue in before all is lost?

One of the best things about "The Enchanted Forest Chronicles" is that it is a pretty decent high fantasy story -- the first book is easily the most enchanting, but the three sequels are also still pretty amusing. But while telling its own story, it's gently poking fun at the sort of things you find in these sorts of stories -- princesses, dragons, fairy godmothers and magical swords -- and how they're typically used.

And Wrede's writing matches this plot nicely -- quirky and clever, with a slightly British bent ("Oh bother!") and plenty of humorous dialogue ("If they'd simply done what they were told, they wouldn't be here." "Still, turning them into slabs of stone forever seems a little extreme"). Perhaps the biggest problem with the series is that the third book is rather weak at times, and the dragons are somewhat less prominent in the fourth.

Since the Rebellious Princess is pretty standard now, it's fun to see one that doesn't whine much, even if she likes all sorts of things that aren't princessy (magic, fencing, cooking cherries jubilee). So her sensible approach to getting her own freedom is quite delightful, especially since it shows that she doesn't need a man. She has one, though -- and Mendanbar is a good love interest, quirky and pleasant enough. There's also a solid backing cast, including Cimorene's son in the fourth book, the cat-keeping witch Morwen, and the friendly dragon Kazul.

Fractured fairy tales, dragon politics and melting wizards can all be found in "The Enchanted Forest Chronicles," a charming little quartet of quirky fantasy books.

Even though I'm older than the average reader of this series, I was still drawn into it. My daughter was the one who introduced me to this series and I have to admit, I really enjoyed it. The whimsical way the author portrays the different characters was a refreshing change from my usual fare of fantasy.

If you love fantasy, you'll like this seires. Start with the first book though.

**A book I would also recommend is The Unsuspecting Mage by Brian S. Pratt. This, the first installment of The Morcyth Saga is a great beginning for a new author. Battles, magic, gods, secret passages and intrigue, all the elements of a classic epic fantasy! Any fantasy reader will enjoy it.

This is now my all-time favorite book series EVER. It's about a princess, Cimorene, who absolutely REFUSES to be proper. She is forced to do standered princess things like learning manners and how loudly to scream when she's being carried away by a giant. How boring. But she manages to sneak in fencing lessons, magic lessons, etc. On day she is going to be forced to marry (ICK!!!) and she runs away to become a dragon's princess.

One thing I love about these books is that each one is from a different person's point of view. #1 feaures Cimorene, #2, Mendanbar, #3, Morwen, and #4, Daystar. To find out who these people ARE, of course, you'll have to read the books yourself!

Whether child or adult, if you are a kid at heart and want to read something that is funny and not at all serious, this is the equivalent of the Hitch-hikers Guide to the Galaxy series in Medieval Fantasy. Turning fantasy traditions and Grimm's fairy tales on their heads is Cimorene's adventures in a bizzaro Camelot. Light and hilarious reading. Also, don't miss Book of Enchantments for another short story of the Enchanted Forest Chronicles and also the light-hearted English historical fantasies of the Sorcery and Cecelia series.

I had to rebuy this series about 2 years ago so I could read it again. Children and Adults will enjoy this story. The mix of humor and fantasy is a perfect blend. They are easily read - and are not all that deep, but if your up for an enjoyable laugh out loud read, then you must get these books.

Each book is told by a different character, but all pretty much include the same cast as the others. If I have read it twice then there is no reason for anyone not to read it once. The different views add for an enjoyable time in the thoughts of that particlar character. If you like fantasy - and have a since of humor, pick it up - you won't be dissappointed!

I first read this series in high school. Since then, I have read them to fifth and sixth grade English students, and now, my high school drama kids will read pieces for classroom exercises. My favorites are one and two which, to be honest, I tend to view as a single story told in two volumes. While the first and second books are, undeniably, my favorites, the third and fourth--as well as the short story about the same characters (found in "Book of Enchantments")--are charming.

Book 1: Cimorene is anything but a proper princess. She loathes the idea of standing around with a look of vacuous stupidity, staring up at some equally empty-headed prince. She decides to take steps to control her own life, and she does.

Book 2: Mendanbar is an overwhelmed king with an underwhelmed steward who wants to see him married to any princess. A problem takes a displeased Mendanbar to meet a princess who he assumes will not have "enough common sense to fill a teaspoon"...but he discovers (thank goodness) she has a brain!

Book 3: Cimorene and Mendanbar work together to save the kingdom with the help of Kazul, the dragon king, and Morwen, the witch with sleeves like Mary Poppins' bag, and other friends. (My memory may be a bit sketchy on this one as it was borrowed from me...As I recall, there's less Mendanbar in this story than I'd like; the highlight of this one is the dialogue of the cats.)

Book 4: Daystar, Cimorene and Mendanbar's son, sets off to set the Enchanted Forest to rights after a wizard finds them. In this one, we learn how the Forest recognizes the heir to the throne which is really fun.

These appeal to all ages. My mother has read them multiple times, as have I. Also, these are the books that hooked my (significantly) younger sister on reading when she was in junior high. I highly recommend these and that you look into other Patricia C. Wrede books. Even as an adult, I have never been disappointed when I've picked a new one up; Ms. Wrede's books have never failed to entertain. She has an enchanted pen.

A very enjoyable read! I read the series first then my sister did then our friend read it. We all loved it!

The story is wonderful and full of color.

If you want a serious fantasy look elsewhere but if you want a good laugh and something light to read this. It's very light hearted and easy to read. If you like dragons, damsels (who AREN'T in distress), wizards who are evil,and bunnys who turn into donkeys named killer then you will love this book!!! The books you can finish in a day if you're dedicated (and believe me you will be!)

If the book your reading right now is on the slow side read this and you'll be rejuvinated! Or if your not into reading but want something entertaing or if you need to do a book report. Sorry I got carried away!Enjoy! ^.^

One of the best series that I have ever read. Wrede is an incredible author who writes memorable characters. The heroines are strong and no-nonsense, the dragons are smart and funny, and although there aren't many heroes you can respect (most are quite distracted by glory and a beautiful princes, as is proper), there are the special few who win even the heroine's heart. My expectations of princes and princesses is exceptionally higher after reading this series. Enjoy!

I first read these books when I was in middle school and immediately fell in love with them. I recently read them again as an adult and still loved them! They are, in a way, your typical fantasy books with an alternate world and a quest. However, there is just enough of the unconventional (a princess who would rather make cherries jubilee than be a princess) and the wacky (melting wizards with lemon scented wash water) to keep you smiling through the whole thing. I can't help but love these and I know I will read them many more times over the years. These are just plain fun and you should read them!

This group of books have made me laugh more than I thought possible.
The first tells the tale of a princess who refuses to be proper, she runs away to live with a dragon (thats a new one) and meets some trully charming, hillarious creatures.
The second gives a little nod to rommance, but still keeps it adventurous, funny feel.
I try not to have favorites, but this is a book, and thats different. In the third the story is a little slower in the third,but the witch and her cats kept me laughing the whole time. Maybe it is because their blunt, witty coments, seemed to be exactly what one of my cats would say. Very funny.
The fourth takes a different angle on the Forest, and keeps youn wondering the whole time. It has the best characters from all the books, and it playfully pokes fun at other classic fairy tales.
The entire series is charming. I love them!

The Enchanted Forest Chronicles are an amaizing collection of fun and witty fantasy books. Written mostly from the third person point-of-view, they tell of a wonderful, exciting world which you just can't get enough of!
The first , Dealing with Dragons, follows the spunky, strong-willed, yet lovable Princess Cimorene on her journy to get away from her dreadfully normall kingdom and embark on an adventure, in wich she befriends dragons, meets witches, and melts some wizards. I thoughroly enjoyed this book! But be warned: after you pick up this one, you simply MUST read the others as well!
The second book, Searching for Dragons, focuses on Mendanbar, king of the enchanted forest, as he meets up with the same great characters from Dealing with Dragons and many equally great new characters on his journeys to save the enchanted forest. An amaizing tale, it's hard to see how Wrede was able to match the greatness of the first one, but yet she does, with great skill!
The third book, Calling on Dragons, is more centered around the witch, Morwen, as she teams up with dragons, donkey-rabbits, firewitches, and many other fun characters to rescue the King's magic sword from meddling wizards. Again, Wrede dazzles us with her ability to keep the story alive and exciting.
The fourth, and final, book in the series, Talking to Dragons, follows Cimorene's son, Daystar, on his quest to return order to the enchanted forest. Although he doesn't even know it, but it seems that everyone else does!! along the way he meets a young dragon and a hot-headed fire witch, who aid in his quest. Although my least favorite in the series (this book is told in the 1st person point-of-view) Wrede doesn't fail to give her readers a fun and captivating story!
I highly reccommend this set! not just for the younger audience, but adults as well; I am fifteen, and LOVED them, and my Aunt (who is quite a few years my senior) enjoyed them as well. These books will make you wish you too could share in the fantastic world of the enchanted fores chronicles. I would give these books a ten if I could!!

The stories are a pleasant calming read about the annoying stereotypes of fairy tale royalty, knights, magic, dragons, witches, and wizards. The first three are told from a third person perspective and are my favorites, but then the fourth is told in first person by the young son of Cimorine, and the abrupt change in storytelling is disorientating, but the overall fourth book is still interesting.
Other than that, it is a very pleasant read.

This was one of the first fantasy novels I ever read, and easily my favorite of the three unknowns (see 'Dragon of the Lost Sea', and 'Colors in the Dreamweaver's Loom). It took me a few years to discover that there were sequels, but boy was I excited when I found them.

This series stands out in my mind, even today among the Harry Potters and Twilights. The story, beginning with a princess who hates the princess norm (being a airheaded twit) and ending with a full-on assault on a magic castle in the middle of an enchanted forest, is expertly crafted, yet not overloaded with descriptions and unneccesary poetry (I'm looking at you, Tolkien). The characters are unique and well characterized, and the story always seems to be making fun of conventional fantasy norms.

If you're looking for brave kings, beautiful princesses, and hungry dragons, you'll find them here; just make sure you leave the 'proper' cliches at the first page.

This book was absolutely delightful! What initially attracted me, though, was the cover art, and I must admit that I purchased the boxed set of the entire series based on the art alone. However, the first story, Dealing with Dragons, is definitely worth picking up. Wrede tells a familiar story - a reluctant princess, a wise dragon, bumbling princes, scheming wizards, and a plot for power is hardly new ground, but Wrede's writing style is very natural and refreshing. A quick and satisfying read appropriate for all ages.

Wonderful series. Very imaginative and fun. Very clever and witty. Wonderful characters including some really great strong female characters. Plenty of quirky humor. What more could you ask for in a book? These books were a favorite of mine when I was a kid and now that I'm rereading them as an adult I still think they're brilliant. Definitely one of the most enjoyable fantasy series I've ever read and I've read a ton of fantasy books. I highly recommend buying this series. You won't regret it.

I first read these books aeons ago when I was in middle school. Now, being 26, I still secret my copies among my much more mature literary fare and pull them out to read every so often when I can't sleep or need an instant pick-me-up. I can't tell you how many times I've read this series, but my paperback copies are all in sad need of replacement. I want to buy a set to tuck away to read to my (future)children and hope they love these funny adventurous fairy tales as much as I do.

I remember struggling through these books one Christmas while visiting my grandmother (I must have been in elementary school--fourth grade at the latest). Now, as a sophomore in college in mechanical engineering, these books are on of my favorite possessions. These books stress that being a tall princess with jet-black hair is OK. Not all witches have to be mean, old, and ugly. They can be pretty, full of common sense, and run an exceptionally clean house. These are the lessons that girls need to hear, and they are told in such a light-hearted fashion that it is a joy to read, time after time.

Cimorene is a lively young princess who is being forced to marry against her will. She decides to run away and become a Dragon's princess. She becomes the Princess of Kazul, a dragon who becomes the King of Dragons. In later books she marries the King of the Enchanted forest and fights wizards and battles magic and more. In the last book, the story is centered around Daystar, Cimorene's son. Daystar meets a firewitch and fights off some more wizards and finally returns his father to the world, after which everyone lives happily ever after.

The Enchanted Forest Chronicles are an absolutly wonderful set of stories. They take the simple premise of your standard fairy tales (Everything from toad princes, knights in armor, and the standard evil witch.) and turn the stereotypes on their heads. Perfect for children, these books are also a wonderful delight to anybody who enjoys a good read. The writing is witty and smart and the tales move at a wonderful pace that will have you devour them wanting more. The price that is listed above is an excellent deal for all four books, if you enjoy a good book you could hardly do better than the ones here.

I was a book-a-holic when i was younger. i first discovered these books in elementary school, and i probably read each one about 10 times. now i'm in college, and just finished re-reading the whole series.
they are intelligent, witty, and twist traditional fairy tales into wonderful, interesting, new things. the characters are great and intelligent. a great book for girls, it shows that we can have adventures too and don't have to be content with waiting for our prince in shining armour to come rescue us. we can be bad-ass, independent, free-thinking princesses like cimerone and still find great guys (mendanbar).
i would reccommend these books to anyone, even if fantasy isn't typically your thing. they are the kind of books and characters that just...become a part of you. although i hate the new paperback versions. if you really love these books, go for the hardback versions if you can find them...these books are worth keeping forever, keeping for your children, and the paperback ones are noticably cheap. of course, the hardback ones are out of print now i beleive, so it can take some hunting. paperbacks are better than no book at all!!
these books have brought me pure joy and vicarious adventure. five stars and 1000 words can't even begin to describe how great they are.

This review about the second book in the series. I've read all of them and especially like this one. It all starts when the king of the Enchanted Forest takes a day off. Cimorene and Mendenbar, the king, are great companions and have hysterical adventures. A fun adventure for excited kids. One of my favorite series. I highly recommend it for girls and boys under 100 (that basically means the whole family).

This was one of my favorite sets as a child! I love princess Cimorene, and the whole idea of the unorthodox characters. Cimorene is not an ordinary princess, but then, none of the characters are as you would normally think of them. I love this set, and still occasionally re-read them just because I loved them so much when I was younger. This is a great addition to any young person's library!!!

What can i say these are some of the best books i have ever read. These books follow the adventures of a princess named Cimorene, who just refuses to be propper. Instead she is a bright, strong, and humerous person altogether, she is what was considerd the opposite of a princess. So what dose she do? She runs off to live with the Dragons in the Mountains of Morning. There she can study any activityes she forbiden to do back at the castle (fencing, magic, polotics, latin, ....) and she gets the adventures she always dreamed about, from Melting pescy wizards and fighting giant rock snakes to geting Maried to the man of her dreams.

These books are the story of a princess who dared to dream of a life...... a life she wanted.

I would definatly recomend these books to anyone who enjoys the Tales of King Arthur and Masterppice of Eragon.

One of my favorite series growing up. I used to check them out of my school library over and over again before I received the set for Christmas one year. Patricia Wrede's writes clever and funny characters that are reinterpreted from the world of traditional fairy tales.

The Enchanted Forest Chronicles are a fun, easy read. I love the refrences to other stories, even a song. Very clever and very funny. I laughed aloud a few times. Great characters - the princess, the Dragons, the good witch, her cats, the Magician, the King, even the wizards. I want to buy them for a lot of young kids to read and enjoy.

Wrede's "Enchanted Forest Chronicles" were some of the first fantasy I ever read, and remain to this day some of the best. She has a wicked sense of humor that even a dozen years after my first reading had me laughing out loud, but she never loses sight of the plot and vivid characterization. Highly recommended for fantasy readers of all ages.

I am 26 years old. I read The Enchanted Forest Chronicles in middle school, and again last year, and I STILL love it!! It's a short, easy read, and very enjoyable for all ages ^_^ I can't wait until my kid is old enough, and I can reread the series a third time with him!

My daughter read these in elementary school. She is now 22. She had been looking for these books but was not successful; however, I found them here on the store and ordered them immediately. She opened this today for Christmas and cried...she said that were the most endearing books that she will always love. They"re about a young girl who lives with dragons...she is not weak nor is she overly masculine. A fun and exciting adventure...fun to read!

purchased vol 1 as a gift for my 10-yr-old granddaughter. I read the first book [twice!] before giving it to her, and enjoyed it myself. She loved it, so I bought the boxed set at a cost that was slightly less than buying the remaining 3 separately.

I loved this set. It wasn't like I thought it would be from what I read about it, it was better! This is a very unique set and I must say that if all of Patricia Wrede's books are as surprising as this one, I would love to get more of her books. This is definitely a fairy tale, but it has so much comedy mixed in with it, plus there's the romance and all the other good stuff you want in a book. Buy this set, and you won't be sorry. Unless, of course you're the type of person that just wants the same boring fairy tale stuff.

This is one of favorite series. After lending this book out and never getting it back, I was recently able to order it again and it is still great 15 years after I read it the first time. Would definetley recommend to anyone who likes fantasy with humor.

m.a.c

I like this book because of the adventure. it was interesting, the dragons are cool.if you like dragons and olden time books then this is the book for you. I liked when the wizard made the parts of the clif disipear . I liked the partwhere cimorene ment the dragon.

The Enchanted Forest series is a childhood favorite of mine. It's the perfect story for that little girl who knows that its the knights who need to be rescued, and that damsels in distress are some of the best actresses. You meet Cimorene, a strong willed princess who would rather learn how to fence than when to scream during a giant's abduction. When she runs away to keep from being married off, she meets a dragon who accepts her as her princess. This leads her off into a world of adventure where she couldn't be happier in her "improper princess" life.

i read this series a loooong time ago (years ago), and since then, i have never failed to read the entire series at least once a year... it is that good. although it is meant for YA readers, older readers will undoubtedly fall in love with it; i can assure you i have.

I am always on the lookout for interesting fantasy entries and remember stumbling upon Dealing with Dragons a while back. I had all but forgotten about this series until following some links here on Amanzon off Harry Potter lists. The is a wonderfully interesting series. The first book does an excellent job providing background and character development. The second book, Searching for Dragons, is a continuation to Dealing with Dragons, but introduces a new character while keeping it's roots with the original characters clear. Calling on Dragons, the third installment may be the best of the series while Talking to Dragons wraps it up neatly. Don't miss these books.
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I had originally read "The Enchanted Forest Chronicles" 10 years ago, but somehow lost it. I remembered how very much I loved it and simply had to read it again. If you love fantasy this is one fantasy that's so captivating and mesmerizing that you'll find it hard, if not impossible, to put down. The author has the unique ability to capture and own your imagination for as long as the book is in your hands, and long after you've put it down as well. An excellent read, I'm very impressed (again), which is not surprizing at all, this book, or series of books, is a true work of art!

The Enchanted Forest Chronicles are a wonderful fantasy adventure. This series is what turned me on to fantasy quite a few years ago. The characters are captivating and Patricia C. Wrede does a wonderful job of bringing the reader into the story.

The lead character Cimorene is a stubburn princess from the kingdom of Linderwall. She runs away from her "boring" princess destiny one day and asks to be taken in with some dragons. The story progresses from there leaving on a wild adventure. I couldn't put these books down; I've read them several times. Recommended!

This is a fun series for young girls, starring a self-sufficient princess and a coven of dragons of a variety of temperaments. Superficial, fluffy reading, but still fun and relaxing to read. The last book in the series kind of annoyed me because I hate it when there are characters who are in the dark about their history and they just bumble around trying to figure out what's going on. Still, there was a happy ending, of course, and it all turned out in the end.

All the books in the Enchanted Forest Chronicles were stupendous. Full of action, fantasy, romance, and humor that is both hilarious and sarcastic. I enjoyed reading these books tremendously, although I would have liked to have more on Cimorene and her life with her husband and perhaps more about Daystar and his love interest. All in all, it was a great series!

I kind of went backwards with this series I read the last one first and slowly caught up on the first 2 but couldn't find the third for the life of me. I love the little book set would recommend to friends!

These were my favourite books for years--my formative years, really. Cimorene is My Ideal Heroine, and these books and this author and her characters have had a profound effect on me as a thinker and writer (my first attempt at novel-writing was three chapters in Patricia C Wrede's remarkable world. No, I had never heard the word "FanFic" back then). There is no better role-model for any young girl than Cimorene (Except, perhaps, Tamora Pierce's Alanna).

Buy these books--give them early and give them often to your favourite bright, eager-to-read children. In my opinion there are no better 1st-8th grade fantasy books.

I have loved this series since I was in the 5th grade! I can't even tell you how many times I've read the 1st one. Great plots, a little romance, and a lot of magic make these books fantastic reads for any age!

One of the best series I have ever read. I personally place it next to Harry Potter. They teach that manners are important and it's okay to be different. Great gift for Good readers around 9 and older, if they don't mind a bit of a challange with the length.

I recommend this book to anyone. I loved it. I have read it more than once now, once just after it came out and again not long ago. It is a very involved novel, and you get into it very quickly. It is long, so when you don't want the good to end, when you are really hooked, it doesn't. Even still, in the end, you wish it was a neverending book, because it is that good. In short, this is a very well written book, a very good read, and I would recommend it to anyone, but good luck finding one. I hope you enjoy this book as much I did, more than once.

This book was so amazingly exciting! I first read it at 14 years old, between that and summer fun, I stretched it out for the whole summer! I would read it again, and I'm 34! I can't wait to pass these chronicles on to my daughter!

I read this story expecting a typical fantastical dragon novel and instead got a comedy, drama and mystery all rolled into one! I actually laughed out loud at several places in the book and thoroughly enjoyed it. This is a great book for young adults and adults alike!

These books are amazing. I read them in elementary school and now at the age of 20 I can still remember being absolutely inspired by the characters. Humor, romance, adventure, and unlikely heros combine to make these ideal books for any reader. Finding them here has inspired me to go back and read them again.

If you like fantasy and you've never read The Enchanted Forest Chronicles, get over to the library right now! The characters are original and fun, from spunky Cimorene to Killer the six foot floating blue donkey (who used to be a rabbit). The only thing I don't like is these scary new covers...I read them a few years ago and the old covers aren't nearly as creepy-looking as these!

What a fun and exciting series! I'm a grandma, and the books kept me spell-bound. I particularly appreciate the fact that the characters are rather atypical, and that the stories offer some fresh new ways to consider or present social and moral values--like acceptance and courtesy.

Talking to dragons is the first book. (The other three books are prequels.)

There! Had to say that first. Now the review! These are great stories, very funny and exciting. Good messages, but not too preachy. There are multiple fairy tale allusions throughout the series, which is fun. Many interesting characters, including some of my favorite fantasy creatures- Dragons!

The only issue I have with this series is that the cover illustrations are different than the ones that I remember, but that really doesn't change the stories in these books. The Enchanted Forest Chronicles is just as Fabulous today as they were when I read then for the first time in third grade. I'm just so glad that I found them in a set and could add them to my collection.

This series is one of my oldest favorites. I first read them in elementary school and now in college I still love them. They are classics that you will go back to again and again. Short and sweet I turn to them if I need that fantastical escape.

Five great stories that keep you hooked till the very last story. With great detail and great story plots. It really transports you to a land of dragons and wizards and witches and princesses and princes'and "caves of fire and nigh" and what not. Four stories wroth reading. In these it seems as though the forest control the characters. READ IT!!!

I enjoyed the book except the fact that some of the pages are missing. Pages 307 through 330 are printed twice. The title page and the first three chapters are left out. I am not sure they are missing in all the copies or not.
I would reccomend the four book box set over the all in one cronicles.

I really liked the book. It was a good story. It was about a girl with long black hair who had to marry a prince. She did not want to. She went to a pond. There was a frog who could talk. He was really a dragon. He sent her to an evil dragon who tried to eat her. She escaped.

I grew up with these books but had not read them in a while. They were just as I remembered them as a kid. But I liked the new cartoon artwork on the covers, especially of Killer the "rabbit?"
It was a journey back in time.

I read the first of these books and liked it quite a bit. The Enchanted Forest is certainly for children, but it also does a great deal in attempting to remove gender stereotypes, letting a female character reject traditional gender roles and be her own strong person. That is until the second book. In the second book she is declawed completely, she becomes dependent on a man to protect her, make decisions and guide the group. When another man speaks too smartly for her, she needs a man to explain things in lame terms, despite supposedly being very well read and educated. He's better in a fight than her and protects her, he's smarter than her and protects her and she quickly finds herself relegated more to domestic duties. It's like somehow the writer utterly failed to realize that she demonstrated exactly the kind of thing that the first book railed against. What's worse is the female lead who manages to create her own power in the first book, gives it up in the second to be with the man and share his. I found this extremely disappointing. I would of rated this higher had the story not pulled a one eighty and destroyed everything it worked so hard to create.

The Enchanted Forest Chronicles is a decent fantasy novel that turns everything upside down, and wrongside up, and will more than once make you laugh out loud. A good read for any dragon and wizard fan.