The Very Fairy Princess Follows Her Heart

PreS-K—Gerry is all about celebrating Valentine's Day. It's one of her favorite days, and she prepares and prepares for it. She makes valentines for everybody in her family and all of her classmates. When the big day finally arrives, her parents help her celebrate with pancakes, complete with fairy dust, a tiara, and wings. She arrives at school looking forward to the class party, but then realizes that she left her valentines at home. What could be a huge disaster turns into a unique opportunity for Gerry to show her friends just how much they mean to her by acting out her valentines for them, telling them why they are special. It turns out to be a great day for everyone. The authors weave in everyday issues that children face, such as acceptance. The ink-and-pencil illustrations are bright, sparkly, and filled with emotion. When Gerry realizes that her valentines are still at home, the look of sadness on her face is devastating down to her pouty lip. This engaging story is short enough for group sharing and has a solid but subtle message.—Lora Van Marel, Orland Park Public Library, IL