Search - Deerskin

This is one of Robin McKinley darker books. It is a loose and wonderful retelling of Donkeyskin, a Charles Perrault story. Princess Lissar suffers a horrible tragedy very young in her life, which forces her to flee from her family. This is the beginning of an adventure that gives her a new life and a new identify. Robin McKinley is a wonderful writer who tells this story with such compassion. The ending is hugely satisfying.

I usually like Robin McKinley (i.e. Beauty & Rose Daughter)- but I just couldn't get into this book. The writing and the story left me wanting. I pride myself on finishing a book that I start - but with this one, after about 100 pages (1/3 of the book) - I just couldn't do it anymore. I had to stop pretending that I cared about the character or the story. I am sorry to say that I cannot recommend this book.

This is well-written, and it's a wonderful book, BUT - it's frequently found shelved in the young adult section of bookstores with Blue Sword and Hero and the crown, where it shouldn't be. The disturbing adult themes make it not-kid-friendly. Otherwise, it is a very good book, just like all of McKinley's books.

Deerskin. By Robin McKinley

Princess Lissar was a forgotten child. She was overshadowed by her enigmatic and beautiful mother. But when her mother dies people start to notice young Lissar, and more importantly, her father begins to notice her in a way that disturbs her more than ever. Her mirror image looks of her mother bring attention that frightens her, and events cause her to run away in her sixteenth year. With only her loyal companion, Ash her hound, to accompany her Lissar must survive the physical, and more importantly, the emotional danger she faces as she travels under the name Deerskin to a new kingdom.

A dark and hauntingly beautiful adult romance. Beautifully written and keeps you glued to the page. Warning: Has some disturbing adult themes. Other than that I would recommend it to any fantasy romance lover.

Like most things Robin McKinley has written, this is well written and engaging, but had some themes that I found disturbing. Due to said themes, I will never reread this book though McKinley is one of my favorites.

I think the Author's Note is the best warning I can give without destroying the plot for people: "There is a Story by Charles Perrault called Donkeyskin which, because of its subject matter, often does not appear in collections of Perrault's fairy tales. Or if it does appear, it does so in a bowlderized state. The original Donkeyskin is where Deerskin began."

So if you want more details on where I got squicked, either google donkeyskin or send me a message. I don't want to ruin the book for those with a less delicate stomach.

Absolutely riveting. You won't be able to put it down. Much darker than McKinley's other books, but really good.

As Princess Lissar reaches womanhood, it is clear to all the kingdom that in her breathtaking beauty she is the mirror image of her mother, the queen. But this seeming blessing forces her to flee for safety from her father's lust and madness. With her loyal dog Ash at her side, Lissar will unlock a door to a world of magic, where she will find the key to her survival-and an adventure beyond her wildest dreams.
Author's Note: There is a Story by Charles Perrault called Donkeyskin which, because of its subject matter, often does not appear in collections of Perrault's fairy tales. Or if it does appear, it does so in a bowlderized state. The original Donkeyskin is where Deerskin began.