FICTION

The Salt Princess

by Anoosha Syed (text) & illus. by Anoosha Syed
HarperCollins. (Everlasting Tales). Apr. 2025. 40p. Tr $19.99. ISBN 9780063324718.
COPY ISBN
Gr 1-5–Princess Amal is the youngest of four princesses. The black sheep of the family, and a prankster, she angers her insecure king father when she publicly humiliates him, and in a fit of rage, he casts her out. It’s a familiar trope, told in similar tales from many cultures over many years. Girl angers father. Father banishes girl. Boy saves girl, etc. Everyone lives happily ever after. Though the text follows a traditional fairy-tale style that is stilted and punctuated with cliches, the illustrations are vibrant, and evoke the depth and richness of the Pakistani culture.
VERDICT A new title for an old tale, told from a Middle Eastern perspective.
Reviewed by Jennifer Noonan , Jan 31, 2025

Be the first reader to comment.

Comment Policy:
  • Be respectful, and do not attack the author, people mentioned in the article, or other commenters. Take on the idea, not the messenger.
  • Don't use obscene, profane, or vulgar language.
  • Stay on point. Comments that stray from the topic at hand may be deleted.
  • Comments may be republished in print, online, or other forms of media.
  • If you see something objectionable, please let us know. Once a comment has been flagged, a staff member will investigate.

RELATED 

BOOKS

Nick and Nack Puzzle Reader Collection
by Budzi, Brandon
BOOKS

Henry’s Picture-Perfect Day
by Bailey, Jenn
BOOKS

Earl & Worm #1: The Bad Idea and Other Stories
by Pizzoli, Greg
BOOKS

Dino Poet
by Angleberger, Tom
BOOKS

A Fairy Finds Her Song: Ready-to-Read Level 1
by Jackson, Bea
BOOKS

Kit and Kaboodle Puzzle Reader Collection
by Portice, Michelle
More
ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?

We are currently offering this content for free. Sign up now to activate your personal profile, where you can save articles for future viewing

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?