However, there is no seat in the immediate vicinity and it soon becomes apparent that she will only place her tutu-clad posterior on the best seat in the house.
We
know this because she demands it, over and over and over again.
Her mother the Queen conducts an orchestra of interesting and eclectic-looking handservants as they rush around, doing the royal bidding. And in the meantime, we the reader are taken on a most extraordinary romp through their palace.
This is a
delightful, surprising, lush and totally fabulous picture book. A sumptuous
treat to pore over and a very funny and poignant read to ponder, it will no
doubt begin many discussions about what it is to desire, to want and to need.
The pace of
the book is really wonderful, with moments of rhyme and stunning alliteration,
alongside quiet reflections. It’s a treat to read out loud.
The
illustrations are breath-taking. Unusual and bold, they are created with a
beautifully limited colour palette that actually makes your heart beat a little
faster in those moments when you realise the intricate details of pattern and
line. Without giving anything away, special mention must be made of the peg
that at some point, finds it’s way onto Princess Poppy’s royal schnozz.
Clever use
of repetition, shading and layering make this a feast for the eyes and the
brain and therefore, for the heart. The reader cannot help but eagerly turn the
page to see what incredible and amazing visual treats are in store.
And of
course, to see which seat Princess Poppy will finally deign to sit upon.
This book is a little bit of daring and a whole lot of wonderful.
Author: Vikki Marmaras
Illustrator: Caterina Metti
Publisher: Red Paper Kite, $29.00
Publication Date: 1 May 2023
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9780648502388
For ages: 3+
Type: Picture Book
