#880 of 1001 · December 28, 2022

I am reveling in the action and adventure of Aaron Shepard and Pauline Ellison’s Master Maid. A young man named Leif is known for being headstrong and contrary. Therefore, when warned not to go and work for a fearsome troll, he does just that. Leif is given a series of impossible tasks and told that the punishment for failure is death. Fortunately, he survives thanks to the grace and good will of a young woman also in the wicked creature’s employ, known only as the Master Maid. Leif and the Master Maid flee together, leaving behind a series of magical obstacles to foil the troll and hinder his advance, and ultimately escape with their lives. Shepard’s narrative sparkles, enhanced by high stakes and charm throughout. Ellison’s irresistible art makes use of a glowing color palette and memorable character design, particularly in the final chase sequence involving the troll’s three magical hench-beasts—Forest Chewer, Mountain Cruncher, and Water Sucker. A note for folklore enthusiasts: This story is based on a tale collected by Peter Christen Asbjørnsen and Jørgen Moe in Norske Folkeeventyr, published in 1843 and 1844. Shepard omits the second half of the narrative, in which the young hero falls under a mysterious curse and forgets his love altogether. The Master Maid is obliged to use her wits and magical powers to break the spell, meting out comedic violence to a series of overeager suitors along the way. #troll #horse #gold #magic #book #books #childrensbooks #beautifulbook #beautifulbooks #beautifulbookcover #beautifulbookcovers #picturebook #picturebooks #picturebookillustration #picturebookillustrations #picturebookart #childrensbookillustration #childrensliterature #illustration #kidlit #kidsbooks #bookworm #booklover #booklovers #bibliophile #bookstagram #bookstagrammer #bookstagrammers #instabook #instabooks