Kirkus Reviews
In this rollicking sequel to Princesses Are Not Quitters! (2002), Lum's trio of perseverant princesses discover that being royal does not make one perfect. Princesses Allie, Libby and Mellie excel at their favorite pastimes, which are baking, building and gardening, respectively. On the eve of their grand Summer Party for the children of their populace, Mellie impetuously decides they should switch their tasks. Unfortunately, their mantra-"princesses are good at everything"-leads to mayhem, as they attack their new chores with more enthusiasm than skill. The author gracefully leads readers to the conclusion that princesses-and others-succeed best when they do what they enjoy. Hellard's ornate watercolors burgeon with humorous details; her vivid paintings depict billowing gowns and towering hairdos that cheekily represent each princess's hobby. This sprightly tale will enchant aspiring princesses. (Picture book. 4-8)
Publishers Weekly
Industrious princesses Libby, Allie, and Mellie return for another go-round in their florid seaside palace in this companion to Princesses Are Not Quitters! This time, Princess Mellie announces she's tired of always working in the garden, so the princesses switch it up: Allie will build things, Mellie will bake, and Libby will garden. But even though “Princesses are good at everything,” they realize it might be best to stick with what they love. Their DIY attitudes leave prissier princess stories in the dust; an excess of tremendously ruffled gowns, dramatic hairdos, and other princessy accoutrements ensure capricious flair. Ages 5-8. (Mar.)
School Library Journal
Gr 1–4—Believing that "Princesses are good at everything," princesses Libby, a master builder; Mellie, a master gardener; and Allie, a master baker, switch roles before a party, with predictable results. Then, during an all-nighter, they whip each others' mistakes into shape and make cupcakes, baskets of blueberries, and little chairs for their guests. This companion to Princesses Are Not Quitters (Bloomsbury, 2003) offers a slim portion of merit, especially in its whimsical and cleverly detailed watercolors (such as the screwdriver in Libby's coiffure, the wooden spoon in Allie's, and the flowers in Mellie's). Unfortunately, it suffers from a didactic resolution and frivolous story line. Frilly dresses, pink puppies, golden table settings, and sumptuous, far-fetched desserts abound. Still, princess fanatics will clamor for a story detailing preparations for a summer party at a rose-covered castle by the sea.—Sara Lissa Paulson, American Sign Language and English Lower School PS 347, New York City
