Princesses Versus Dinosaurs

August 3, 2020
Bailey’s clever picture book highlights two factions’ ongoing struggle for attention and authority, which will resonate with anyone who’s simultaneously cared for multiple children of divergent interests. Inclusively drawn, variously gendered princesses with varying skin tones and body types frolic across a pastel spread resplendent with rainbows, smiling woodland creatures, and unicorn pegasi. “This is a princess book. Tra la! Tra la! Tra la!” the text reads, and all is well—until the next spread, which shows dinosaurs rampaging across a dark-toned page: “NO! It’s not! Wrong, wrong, wrong! This is a dinosaur book.” As the opposing groups square off, Ang’s expressive, dynamic digital illustrations humorously show the parties waging war in a speech-bubble-strewn argument—princesses on one side, dinos on the other. Events escalate, each side bringing out their big guns (a dragon and T. rex, respectively) and even building a wall before a resolution brings a subtle, welcome message of inclusion and empathy. An engaging read for princesses, dinosaurs, and everyone in between. Ages 3–7.