The Dumpy Princess

Gr 3—5—This engaging story of how a plain little girl grew up to become Queen of England is for those who enjoy their historical fiction on the light side. Fernald navigates a dark time in history with just the right amount and type of humor, making the narrative accessible and intriguing for kids. Readers are introduced to Victoria as a baby. They witness the loutish behavior of her four less-than-princely uncles, Ernest, Frederick, William, and George. Each royal has his own problems and reasons for his bad treatment of Victoria and her widowed mother, the Duchess of Kent. Fortunately, Victoria's savvy governess protects, comforts, and advises her, gently steering her toward her destiny. Meanwhile, readers get to know the young Victoria, a lover of animals and dolls who is also a princess with a mind of her own. From infancy to her coronation, the author offers an entertaining and historically accurate glimpse into what life was like for Victoria. Charming, cartoonlike color illustrations, large and small, add to the enjoyment of the novel. This would make a good classroom read-aloud for groups studying British history.—Tina Martin, Arlington Heights Memorial Library, IL