Will Princess Isabel Ever Say Please?

Metzger, Steve    Will Princess Isabel Ever Say Please?      

Holiday House     2012  unp   $16.95      978-0-8234-2323-1   E   elem        Fairy tale 

This book provides a humorous way to show children that one simple word may be all it takes to get what one wants, and it has all the qualities of a Book of Note for the Tri-State Book Review Committee.  However, since the focus of the committee is upper-elementary through high school, this book only merits an "excellent" rating.  Bright watercolor illustrations with amazing detail in the depictions of jewels and nature will engage the preschool reader.  The wording used to show the petulance of the princess and her avoidance of the word "please" will bring smiles to readers' faces, as will the illustrations, which show her whimsical side.  While it is basically the story of Cinderella retold, this book also weaves in elements of Snow White and The Frog Prince.  The only misstep may be the reference to Groucho Marx in the scene where the mother wears the GM glasses - I am not sure the children or even today’s parents will get this humorous connection.  

This will be a surefire hit for girls who love princess stories and a sly way to teach manners all wrapped up into a delightful book to share with children.        

E     Lois McNicol      Fractured fairy tales