The Duchess of Whimsy (by Randall de Seve)

The Duchess of Whimsy is the life of the party, but her admirer, the Earl of Norm, is far too ordinary to attract her interest. He goes to great lengths, presenting clumsy poetry and borrowing ill-suited clothes, but nothing works. Until one day, when the cook falls ill and the duchess’ guests scramble to prepare an exotic feast, and the earl’s humble, sensible grilled cheese sandwich draws her attention. The two share the sandwich and find they have much more than tastes in common once they finally start talking.

Randall and Peter de Seve have dished up a charming story that teaches a valuable lesson with a considerable dose of humor and joy. Randall de Seve brings together her odd couple with a sparkling story that evokes both princess fantasies and the grade-school cafeteria social order. The exuberant artwork by Peter de Seve -- well-known for his New Yorker covers, among other work -- are crammed with funny details that will entrance kids.

Like the duchess herself, everything about this book is lavish and extravagant, from the expressive illustrations to the lyrical, elegant language. The latter, however, may put off some younger kids. The first readings will very likely require frequent interruptions to define unfamiliar words: The first few pages alone toss out soirees, attire, rutted, manor, apparel, and joie de vivre. Patient kids who enjoy wordplay will stick with it and feel rewarded, but less eager readers may give up.

Beautiful, funny, and, yes, whimsical illustrations add magic to a fairy tale courtship.

Author: Randall de Seve
Illustrator: Peter de Seve
Publisher: Philomel
Publication date: October 29, 2009
Number of pages: 32
Hardcover price: $17.99
Read Aloud: 5
Read Alone: 7