Book description
Hey, I just finished the final book in Catherynne M. Valente's Fairyland series, The Girl Who Raced Fairyland All the Way Home, and I have to tell you how it wraps up this whimsical saga. In the audiobook, the narrator captures Valente's playful tone, making the ride through Fairyland feel both epic and intimate.
Right from the start, the story tells us that September has accidentally become Queen of Fairyland. That's the hook: a sudden crown, a kingdom in flux, and a Royal Race that will decide who truly deserves the throne. The stakes are high, but Valente keeps them grounded with her trademark blend of humor and heart.
The book brings back the characters we love-Wyverary, A-Through-L, Saturday, the changelings Hawthorn and Tamburlaine, wombat Blunderbuss, and gramophone Scratch. Each of them plays a part in the chaos of the race, and their interactions stay true to the quirky dynamics we've grown to expect. The narrative doesn't shy away from the madness; it embraces it, letting the absurdity of the race highlight the underlying themes of belonging and destiny.
Valente's background comes through subtly. Born on Cinco de Mayo in 1979, she grew up in Northern California, studied Classics at UC San Diego and Edinburgh, and has lived in Japan and Maine. That blend of ancient scholarship and contemporary sensibility gives the story a depth that makes the fantastical elements feel real. In the audiobook, the narrator's delivery respects this blend, shifting seamlessly between the whimsical and the profound.
The Royal Race itself is a clever narrative device. Whoever wins seizes the crown, but the journey matters more than the finish line. Throughout the race, we see September, Saturday, and A-Through-L face challenges that test their courage, friendship, and sense of self. The climax is satisfying, offering surprises that feel earned rather than forced. The resolution doesn't simply crown a new queen; it questions what it means to rule when everyone's claim feels legitimate.
There are no major plot holes. Valente's pacing keeps the story moving, and the audiobook narrator's timing ensures each twist lands with clarity. The dialogue remains lively, and the descriptions of Fairyland-its strange landscapes and bizarre creatures-stay vivid without overwhelming the listener.
In short, this final chapter delivers on the promise of the series: a mix of magic, mischief, and meaningful growth. For fans who have followed September's journey, the audiobook offers a satisfying conclusion that stays true to Valente's voice. If you're looking for an adventure that balances wonder and wisdom, this is the listen to finish your Fairyland experience.
Trouble Mittens
I'm amazed at how this app's narrators bring characters and stories to life. I'm in awe of this app's ability to make reading so accessible and convenient. π Unleashing the power of audiobooks with this user-friendly app β it's like having a personal storyteller on demand! ππ₯ ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature enhances my audiobook experience, ensuring I catch every detail. The app's compatibility with CarPlay is a fantastic bonus. It keeps me entertained during long drives.
Devine Melon
This app has turned even my mundane tasks into exciting learning opportunities. The adjustable playback speed is a secret weapon for getting through educational content faster. Automated artwork and metadata retrieval make my library look organized and professional.
Sultan of Speed
Changing the tone of the sound on ListenBook Pro is a unique feature that adds a personal touch to my listening. I can't believe how much more I'm 'reading' now, all thanks to this app. User-centric audiobook joy β this app's ease of use is impressive. Say hello to audiobook nirvana! This app's user-friendly design and comprehensive features have made my reading routine smoother than ever. ππ Tone adjustment adds a unique touch to my listening experience. I'm hooked!
Turnip King
The noise reduction feature on ListenBook Pro is a godsend for clear and comfortable listening. π Grooving to the rhythm of stories while tackling household chores β a dance of productivity! πΆπ ListenBook's sharing options make it a breeze to connect with fellow audiobook enthusiasts and share recommendations. An average audiobook experience. Nothing was wrong with itβthe narration was fine, and the story was okayβbut nothing particularly stood out. It served its purpose as entertainment during my commute.
Berry Succubus
ListenBook's versatile controls and playback options have made my study sessions more productive and enjoyable. With this app, my daily routines have become moments of intellectual growth and personal enjoyment. Discovering new literary worlds has never been this easy. This app's compatibility with various formats ensures that my audiobook library is at my fingertips. ππ Kudos to the developers for optimizing this app for iOS 16. It runs like a dream on my device. Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a fun way to introduce them to captivating stories.
ThoughtTrailblazer
The sound quality is outstanding β it's like having a movie theater in my ears! I've become a more attentive listener thanks to the engaging audiobooks.
Star Killer
Seamless audiobook integration β this app's functionality is a technological marvel. Sharing audiobooks with friends is a blast. AirDrop makes it seamless.
Sleepwalker
ListenBook's commitment to providing a high-quality audiobook experience is truly commendable. I'm amazed by ListenBook's smooth drag-and-drop downloads in my web browser β a time-saver! ListenBookβs audio filters are great. The app provides a high-quality listening experience.
Breadmaker
The ability to switch between different books effortlessly is a major plus. This app has made waiting in lines and queues an opportunity for exploration and enjoyment. Looping playback helps me focus on challenging content and grasp complex concepts. A study must-have!
Preach Man
This app has ignited my passion for reading once again β but in a modern, convenient way. ListenBook's audio filters have transformed the way I experience audio content β it's a real game-changer. β° Maximizing my time with efficient features β this app's functionality lets me dive into stories even in the busiest moments. πβ³ With its powerful audio downloading features, I can have my favorite audiobooks ready to go, anytime and anywhere. ListenBookβs interface is sleek and user-friendly. Finding and playing my audiobooks has never been easier.
Pixie
As an audiobook enthusiast, I'm in awe of ListenBook's advanced features. The ability to adjust the reader's voice tone is a unique and fun addition. Supports all audio formats I use without issues. Very happy. The app is very user-friendly. ListenBook makes listening to audiobooks a breeze. I don't have strong feelings about this one either way. The narration was competent but forgettable. The story itself was more engaging than the performance.
Fadey
I'm amazed by the variety of genres available β there's something for everyone. π Indulging in soothing bedtime stories β this app is my nightly retreat into imagination. ππ πΆββοΈπ Exploring stories as I stroll β audiobooks have turned my walks into inspiring journeys of imagination. ποΈπ§ Playback speed and volume controls are fantastic. Listening to audiobooks has never been this enjoyable. Thank you, ListenBook!
Poppin Loot
I'm no longer missing out on great stories β this app fits perfectly into my lifestyle. Looping playback is a study aid sent from heaven. It's helping me ace my exams! ListenBookβs support for Apple Watch is a great touch. I can control my audiobooks on the go.
Mad Rascal
ListenBook's integration of artwork and metadata adds a visually appealing touch to my library. The app is perfect for long commutes. It keeps me entertained for hours. The app is so easy to set up. I was listening to my books in no time.
B@d B0y
No more fighting over the radio during family trips β we're all hooked on audiobooks now. I've become a more empathetic listener thanks to the emotional depth of audiobooks. With ListenBook, I've found a reliable and enjoyable way to listen to audiobooks and expand my knowledge. ListenBook's drag-and-drop download feature simplifies the process of adding new audiobooks to my collection. Listening statistics motivate me to read more. Excellent feature!
MysticMingle
Changing the tone of the sound on ListenBook is a fun feature that adds a unique touch to my audiobook experience. This app's compatibility with different formats ensures that no audiobook is off-limits β truly impressive. With this app, my daily routines have become moments of intellectual exploration and personal growth. π Adding excitement to each day β this app ensures that every moment is an opportunity to explore new stories. ππ Finally, an app that supports a wide range of audio formats! It's a must-have for audiobook enthusiasts.
Ozzie Treat
I'm amazed at how this app has expanded my reading horizons. I'm blown away by how this app has made my workouts more enjoyable and my mind more active. Adjusting the tone of the voice is an innovative feature that allows for a personalized listening experience. A serviceable audiobook that met basic expectations. The narration was clear if somewhat unremarkable, and the production quality was standard without any noticeable technical issues. It kept me moderately engaged during workouts but didn't leave a lasting impression.
Wildcat Talent
ListenBook's compatibility with different formats ensures I never have to worry about file conversions. With this app, my audiobook library is organized and accessible, making my reading journey effortless. ListenBook Pro's noise reduction ensures that my listening experience remains clear and enjoyable.
Alpha
π§ My daily chores just got an upgrade! Thanks to this app, I can dive into captivating stories while cooking and cleaning. ππ³ Accessing literary treasures has never been this straightforward β thank you, app!
Diamond Gamer
π Indulging in soothing bedtime stories β this app is my nightly retreat into imagination. ππ ListenBook's drag-and-drop download feature from web browsers is incredibly convenient. Downloading audiobooks has never been this easy. ListenBook's attention to detail in design and functionality sets it apart from other audiobook apps. Kudos to the developers for making this app iOS 16 optimized. It runs like a dream! The app is perfect for people with visual impairments. Itβs so easy to navigate.
Playing a wide variety of audio formats
Works on all devices with iOS 13 and newer
Huge amount of features for a small price
Frequent updates to add new features and improve existing ones
Advanced playback controls
Live sound processing
Changing the timbre of the reader's voice and noise reduction
Translated into more than 20 languages
If you love listening to fiction audiobooks, ListenBook has features to make the process easier.
Edit book data: title, author, cover
Use equalizer to make the sound comfortable for you
Adjust the playback speed
Enjoy dark and light app themes
Supported formats: MP3, M4B, AWB, FLAC, OGG audio files and many more (must be DRM free)
Auto-Bookmarks make it easy to find your place
AirPlay support allows redirection of audio output.
VoiceOver support
Dark mode for night owls
Convenient bookmarking system helps you mark the most important places.
Unlimited bookmarks for each audiobook
Put your own cover on the wager
Share your audiobook with friends
Lock-screen control
Customise app with extensive options
Sleep timer with shake to reset, set custom notification sounds, and a few unique options
Auto rewind depending on paused time, customize rewind times to your liking
Removing background noise from recordings made in classrooms and meetings
Changing the timbre of the reader's voice for a better listening experience