Princesses Are Not Perfect
Grade 1–4—Believing that "Princesses are good at everything," princesses Libby, a master builder; Mellie, a master gardener; and Allie, a master baker, switch roles before a party, with predictable results. Then, during an all-nighter, they whip each others' mistakes into shape and make cupcakes, baskets of blueberries, and little chairs for their guests. This companion toPrincesses Are Not Quitters(Bloomsbury, 2003) offers a slim portion of merit, especially in its whimsical and cleverly detailed watercolors (such as the screwdriver in Libby's coiffure, the wooden spoon in Allie's, and the flowers in Mellie's). Unfortunately, it suffers from a didactic resolution and frivolous story line. Frilly dresses, pink puppies, golden table settings, and sumptuous, far-fetched desserts abound. Still, princess fanatics will clamor for a story detailing preparations for a summer party at a rose-covered castle by the sea.—Sara Lissa Paulson, American Sign Language and English Lower School PS 347, New York CityCopyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.