Let's talk about a book that's been quietly influencing fantasy writers for over 150 years. George MacDonald's The Princess and the Goblin is a deceptively simple story that packs a lot of wonder into its pages.

The Story

Princess Irene lives in a large house on a mountain, lonely but curious. Below her home are extensive mines, inhabited not by miners, but by a race of grotesque goblins who were driven underground centuries ago. They despise humans and sunlight, and they've hatched a plan to kidnap Irene and force her to marry their prince, hoping to claim the kingdom above. Irene's adventure begins when she discovers a magical, kind old woman in a forgotten attic room—her great-great-grandmother, who provides guidance and a magical, invisible thread. Her ally is Curdie, a sensible and courageous miner's son who isn't afraid to go into the dark places. The story follows their separate and combined efforts to uncover the goblins' plot and protect the kingdom, blending fairy-tale logic with moments of genuine peril.

Why You Should Read It

This book charmed me because it treats its young heroes with real respect. Irene isn't just a damsel; her courage grows through her faith in her grandmother and her own choices. Curdie is pragmatic and brave, but he also has to learn to trust things he can't see or explain—like Irene's magical thread. MacDonald doesn't talk down to his reader. The goblins are properly frightening, their kingdom is eerie, and the stakes feel real. The central theme isn't just 'good vs. evil,' but about the nature of faith and courage. It's about believing in help that seems invisible, and doing the right thing even when you're scared. The relationship between Irene and her grandmother is particularly beautiful—a quiet, powerful symbol of guidance and unconditional love.

Final Verdict

This is a perfect pick for anyone who loves the roots of modern fantasy. You can see clear threads here that inspired C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. It's also a fantastic family read-aloud—the chapters are short, the goblins are creepy-fun, and the heroes are easy to root for. If you enjoy fairy tales that have a bit more heft and mystery than the usual versions, where magic feels ancient and a little strange, you'll find a real treasure here. It's a short, foundational adventure that proves some stories truly are timeless.