The Princess in Black and the Giant Problem by Shannon Hale & Dean Hale, illustrated by LeUyen Pham. Candlewick, 2020. 9781536202229
Format: Hardcover
Rating: 1-5 (5 is an excellent or a Starred review) 5
Genre: Fantasy/early chapter book
What did you like about the book? Eighth book in the series. Princess Magnolia wishes it were her birthday again so she could have a party and see her friends. She changes into her Princess in Black gear and goes to play in the snow with Goat Avenger. When a giant wreaks havoc over the goat pasture, the friends worry that he will destroy the village. They summon more princesses, but the solution to the rampaging, noisy giant surprises them all. Adult readers may notice that the giant is toddler, and when his giantess mom arrives on the scene with his lost “Squashy” lovey, it all makes sense. Gentle tension, a diverse crew of princesses, a predictable yet entertaining story, and utterly delightful illustrations make this and the entire series a delight for newly independent readers or as a read aloud. New princesses are introduced at the end, signaling more titles in the series to come.
Anything you didn’t like about it? No
To whom would you recommend this book? For ages 5-9, especially fans of humorous fantasy with a girl protagonist.
Who should buy this book? Elementary school and public libraries
Where would you shelve it ? Fiction
Should we (librarians/readers) put this on the top of our “to read” piles? No
Reviewer’s Name, Library (or school), City and State: Stephanie Tournas, Robbins Library, Arlington, MA
Date of review: December 21, 2020
Youth Services Book Review 
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