A beautifully illustrated story.” — Booklist
“Using language which encourages hope, body positivity, and self-worth, Franklin weaves together a story which can be used by parents, librarians, teachers, and reading specialists to discuss overcoming discrimination.” — Booklist
“Buoyant digital illustrations in candy colors reflect Tameika’s outgoing personality.” — Booklist
“By the end, I was cheering and tearing up with joy for Princess Tameika!” — Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow, author of Mommy’s Khimar
“Franklin’s sensitive treatment of this young girl’s story, along with Ebony Glenn’s bright but soft illustrations, encourages us to root for a new kind of princess while opening much-needed conversations.” — Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow, author of Mommy’s Khimar
“A feel-good picture book and a great reminder that classic princess roles can be reimagined to embrace inclusion, diversity, and body positivity.” — Kirkus Reviews
“Glenn’s playful, animation-inspired digital art will enchant readers as it immerses them in Tameika’s vivid imagination.” — Kirkus Reviews
“For kids who like to imagine themselves being anything they want to be, it is reassuring to be reminded that it’s not exterior looks that matter but the princess within.” — Kirkus Reviews
“With earnestness and plenty of heart, the creators adroitly make the girl’s problem feel less overwhelming, smartly emphasizing her passion and empowerment.” — Publishers Weekly
“It’s refreshing to see female confidence portrayed without a single 'aw, shucks' moment, and important to be reminded that there’s no one right way to be a princess.” — Publishers Weekly
07/01/2019
PreS-Gr 2—A young black girl named Tameika loves singing, dancing, and acting. She's always felt the most free to be herself onstage, and always been the star—but she's never gotten to be a princess. When auditions for a school Snow White musical are announced, Tameika finally sees her chance; but when she overhears other students whispering that she is "too tall, too brown, and too chubby" to play the lead, she begins to doubt herself. When she explains her concerns to her parents, they tell her that she is "just enough of the right stuff" to be the perfect princess. Armed with their support, she remembers her joy for performing and scores the lead role. Glenn's vibrant digital illustrations vividly portray Tameika's emotions and personality, showing her clearly as a star in the making. The message of the book is wonderfully affirming, but the resolution feels abrupt: all it takes is one brief conversation with Tameika's parents to resolve all of her self-doubt. Abruptness aside, this is a recommended choice. VERDICT A fast, feel-good read that affirms anyone can be a princess regardless of size or race, and, in particular, supports and empowers young black girls.—Kelsey Socha, Ventress Memorial Library, Marshfield, MA
