Robin McKinley's Beauty masterfully retells the classic "Beauty and the Beast" tale with rich prose and vivid characters. Readers appreciate its immersive world-building and emotional depth, though some find the pacing slow. Overall, it is praised for its enchanting storytelling and nuanced heroine. Engaging yet occasionally verbose, it remains a beloved adaptation.

Readers who enjoy Robin McKinley's Beauty are often enchanted by richly detailed retellings of classic fairy tales. Fans of Ella Enchanted by Gail Carson Levine and Spindle's End by Robin McKinley herself will appreciate the imaginative reworking of beloved stories and strong, relatable heroines.

In Beauty: A Retelling of the Story of Beauty and the Beast by Robin McKinley, young Honour "Beauty" Huston, deemed unattractive despite her nickname, sacrifices herself to live with a beast in a magical castle after her father's theft of a rose. While there, she forms a bond with the Beast and discovers her own inner and outer beauty, ultimately breaking his curse through her love. The story addresses themes of financial loss and transformative love.

Romantic / Fantastical / Heartwarming / Inspirational

- Beauty by Robin McKinley was first published in 1978, and it marks McKinley's debut as a novelist, showcasing her early talent for reimagining classic fairy tales.
- The novel has been praised for its strong, character-driven storytelling and for offering a more modern take on the traditional "Beauty and the Beast" tale, emphasizing personal growth and inner beauty.

**Beauty/Honour Huston**  
The protagonist who prefers to be called Beauty instead of Honour, known for her intelligence and love of books. She dreams of becoming a scholar and is characterized by her selflessness and loyalty to her family.

**Beast**  
Initially perceived as a possible antagonist, he is under an enchantment that gives him a monstrous appearance. Despite this, he is gentle and kind, ultimately becoming the story's love interest.

**Roderick Huston**  
Beauty's father and a wealthy merchant in the beginning, he is supportive of his daughters' dreams and independence. After losing his fortune, he remains compassionate and selfless, adjusting to a simpler life.

**Grace and Hope Huston**  
Beauty’s older sisters who contrast with her in appearances but share a kind and sincere nature. They deviate from the traditional fairy tale stereotype of jealous sisters.

**Lydia and Bessie**  
Invisible beings that serve Beauty in the enchanted castle. They help move the plot along by providing background information and attempting to influence Beauty's relationship with Beast.

Robin McKinley

Middle grade

Novel

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Beauty: A Retelling of Beauty and the Beast

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