Review: Princess Charming by Zibby Owens, Illustrated by Holly Hatam

Publisher: Flamingo Books
Source: the publisher in exchange for an honest review
Release Date: April 19th, 2022
Buying Links: Amazon* | Apple Books* | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Google Books | Kobo | 
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Blurb from goodreads:

From debut author Zibby Owens comes Princess Charming, a lovable and empowering new character!

Princess Charming can't quite seem to find her "thing." She's tried everything from cooking to hip-hop, and hasn't been able to perfect either. Even her cartwheels are subpar. But when the castle hosts a superstar for a special event, Princess Charming finally finds her time to shine.

Princess Charming is about a brand-new princess character filled with fun, humor, and girl power. With a modern look and can-do attitude, Princess Charming is the perfect gift for all young readers who never give up!

Praise for Princess Charming

[A] timeless message.--Kirkus Reviews

My Thoughts:

"I never give up. I just keep trying." - So says out heroine, Princess Charming, younger sister to Prince Charming. (Wouldn't that be confusing, having two children with the same name?)

It's a positive message and a good one. I admire Princess C for her persistence but the story itself is just meh. I liked seeing all the different things that she tried, and her continuing efforts to find her passion, but I never quite got engaged with the story. It's sweet and the artwork is good but the story just didn't grab me. Preschoolers may enjoy it, especially the bits about royalty, but it's not a must read. It does give a positive message, and that shouldn't be overlooked.