I don't usually review popular books, because I rarely have anything more to add to the discussion. With this book, however, I watched the movie years ago and because the ebook was on sale, I surrendered to nostalgia and bought it, thinking it would be a fun read. And it was...to some extent. I didn't have a problem with Goldman's descriptions and "abridgments" per se. They weren't too intrusive in the main story but the introductions and final section on "Buttercup's Baby" were annoying with long rambling sections of fake "O woe is me" moaning by Goldman about fictional family, publishing and legal problems. I know this is done with tongue firmly in cheek and he hints at his purpose when he talks about the purported Florinese scholars and their interpretations of the ironic and satiric nature of the "original" story. I'm just saying, it didn't work for me. If you've seen and love the movie, don't spoil it by reading the book. They are two very different stories and each important in their own right. I gave it three stars for the core story, but Goldman's satire ruined the warm and fuzzy feeling I hoped to have.