- dream-like fairy tale in which a boy and girl seek what their discovered key will open
- their journey lasts many years, during which they meet many strange creatures & people
- clean language
Type: short story
Ages: 6+
Author: George MacDonald
This story is worth a re-read. Why, you ask? Well, first of all, there are definite allegorical themes that can appear more clearly in subsequent readings, but also some of it is simply quite odd (and, thus, a bit jarring) the first time you read it.
I initially listened to an audiobook and later read an ebook version, which was not illustrated. I understand that certain versions of this book are illustrated (by Maurice Sendak, Ruth Sanderson, Jane Yolen, possibly others), so I’d recommend you seek out one of those to help comprehension.
Overall, it’s a safe book to pick up and read to your children. Some will love the ethereal feelings it renders while others will think it too strange to care much about. I see both of those reactions common in reviews.