Review: I initially did not think I would end up purchasing this book because I do not often read side stories within a series. Ultimately, I am so glad I gave this collection a chance because I thoroughly enjoyed it!

For starters, it was awesome to finally read from Cardan’s perspective! Black allows the reader to view certain aspects of time that were briefly touched on in the previous “Folk of the Air” books through Cardan’s eyes. By writing a collection of short stories rather than a prequel, Black was able to jump around in time and show us Cardan’s life before and after Jude which I really appreciated. 

In addition to a collection of short stories, the novel includes absolutely stunning illustrations spread throughout! Rovina Cai did a phenomenal job capturing Cardan and other characters on the page. The illustrations paired with Holly Black’s text creates a storybook feel, transporting the reader to Elfhame where Cardan is hearing his own storybook tales being read aloud (the stories within the story truly are meta). 

The fantastical images paired with the superb storytelling of Holly Black make How the King of Elfhame Learned to Hate Stories one of my favorite purchases of 2021!

Jess Approved?: ✓