by Tim Wadham, Illustrated by Kady MacDonald Denton
Candlewick Press, $16.99, 28 pages
When children play dress-up, the stories they create can be fascinating. Watching imaginations grow is one of the many joys of parenting. Tim Wadham captures the gift of imagination in The Queen of France. This charming story follows Rose as she transforms herself into the Queen. A basket holds the necklaces, bracelets, clothes, parasol, pink slippers, and crown that make her look like royalty. Children will love seeing Rose change before their eyes. Her mom and dad enjoy talking with their regal daughter and play along with her. These conversations are very amusing. Children often wonder if their parents will love them if they were someone else. Rose uses the opportunity to talk to her parents to find out whether or not they want a queen in the family rather than a daughter. The affection they show when she is a royal and a little girl reassures her that they care for her no matter who she is. Illustrator Kady MacDonald Denton’s beautiful watercolors add a hint of magic to this tender tale. Let your imagination go as you read about a family with a very creative child.
Reviewed by Elizabeth Franklin