Review By: Anonymous
Published: 2023
Series: Disney Twisted Tales (#18)
Genres: YA Fiction, Fantasy, Fairy Tale Retelling
Audience: Grades 7–9
Number of Stars: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
Goodreads Link: Set in Stone
Content Warnings: None.
Publisher’s Summary
What if Arthur wasn’t meant to be king? Having pulled the sword from the stone, scrawny Arthur has gone from washing dishes to sitting on the throne at Camelot Castle. What he doesn’t know is that the scheming witch, Madam Mim, used her magic to help Arthur free the sword, believing the boy would be easy to control once he was made king. When Arthur proves more capable than she imagined, Mim sends her foster daughter, Guinevere, to put Arthur back in his right place washing dishes. But Arthur and Guinevere discover Mim’s manipulations and forge an unlikely friendship. As they search for a way to outwit Mim and unite the kingdom, they realise that no one’s fate is set in stone.
Review
This book truly took me on a nostalgic journey with a fresh, exciting twist. As a reimagining of a childhood favorite, it felt both familiar and new, blending the classic magic and adventure we loved with a modern perspective that will resonate with today’s students.
The story dives into a world of mystery, enchantment, and a journey of self-discovery, all set against a backdrop that feels both timeless and vibrant. The author has done a remarkable job weaving complex characters and captivating plot twists that kept me engaged from start to finish. Arthur is relatable and inspiring, making decisions that young readers can reflect on in their own lives.
I loved the focus on bravery, sacrifice, friendship, and loyalty. The settings and situations make it easy to spark students’ imaginations, as well as discussions about character choices and motivations. For teachers, Set in Stone could be a fantastic addition to a classroom library or even a choice for book clubs or literature circles. I highly recommend this book for anyone looking to captivate students with a blend of classic fantasy and modern sensibility. It’s a refreshing take that honors the spirit of the original while giving us something entirely new to explore! Check out the whole Twisted Tales Disney Series—there are 18 books so far!
🏰 Literary & Classroom Connections
- Archetypes & Tropes: Use this book to discuss the “Chosen One” trope. How does the story change when the “Choosing” is a lie?
- Comparative Literature: Have students compare the Disney film The Sword in the Stone (1963) with this novel. Discuss how Guinevere’s role has been modernized to provide more agency.
- Creative Writing: Ask students to pick a different Disney movie and create their own “Twist.” What is the one moment that, if changed, would flip the entire story?
- Ethics & Leadership: Discuss Arthur’s choices. If he finds out he wasn’t “meant” to be king, should he still lead if he is the best person for the job?
