The Very Smart Pea and the Princess-to-be

Rating:
Summary: An enjoyable read--again and again and again and again
Review: As the mother of a two-year-old, I am delighted when I find a book that both of us enjoy reading, since books get read over and over. This is one of those delightful books that we share.

The storyline is clever: the tale of the princess and the pea, as told from the pea's perspective. We learn about a prince who just can't seem to find the right princess (even when threatened with having his allowance withheld), the very polite princesses who sleep like babies on the multiple-mattressed bed, the pea's resolution to "do something!" and what comes of it.

The charming illustrations add to the attraction: vegetables of various sorts adorn the walls; even the queen's eyes are made of peas; and the front and back inside covers detail the "before" and "after" scenes in the palace garden.

While my daughter enjoys this book at age 2, I know that older children would be delighted, as well. A beginning reader could probably master the text after a few times through with help; in addition, the notion of telling a fairy tale from the perspective of some lesser character is one which could be used as a creative writing exercise in the early grades.

As for me, I will be on the lookout for more gems from Mini Grey!

Rating:
Summary: A Very Smart Pea Indeed
Review: I died laughing reading this book, it was absolutely darling. The pea is a very smart one, having undertaken the task of making a princess seem acceptable for the queen, and when the pea learns of the woman's identity, he is very surprised! As will you be.

A lovely tale for male or females, this book has enchanting illustration that draw the reader in to the plight of the pea.