Common Sense Media Review
By Regan McMahon
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Delightful, lively Chinese twist on Rapunzel tale.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 5+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
RA PU ZEL AND THE STINKY TOFU begins with the princess Pu Zel, daughter of Emperor Ra, feeling sad because she's always getting scolded by her parents and governess for cooking in the kitchen (not proper for a princess) and stuffing too much in her mouth when she eats ("a proper princess takes small bites"). They also want her to consider marriage proposals from a series of princes. Finally, she's had enough and locks herself in her tower and refuses to come out. Until a young chef cooks an unusual dish outside her door and she can't resist giving it a try. End pages include information about what stinky tofu is (fermented tofu), its origins, and its enduring popularity. The book includes a recipe for Non-Stinky Pan-Fried Tofu that kids can make.
Is It Any Good?
In this lively, engaging rewrite of the Rapunzel story, the long-haired princess takes control of her destiny and follows her foodie passion instead of parents' expectations. Changing the setting from Europe to China and putting the focus on Pu Zel's love of food and cooking offers all sorts of possibilities for talented illustrator Crystal Kung. There's so much personality in each character and so much action on each page, reading the colorful picture book feels almost like watching an animated film. And Ying Chang Compestine's masterful storytelling maintains a great pace of action, conflict, and resolution. Ra Pu Zel and the Stinky Tofu is a fun adventure steeped in Chinese culture and cuisine.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how Ra Pu Zel and the Stinky Tofu compares with the traditional Rapunzel story. How is it different? How is it the same?
Have your parents ever told you to eat something the "proper" way? What are the food rules in your family?
How does Pu Zel show courage?
Book Details
- Author :
- Illustrator : Crystal Kung
- Genre : Picture Book
- Topics : Cooking , Fantasy ( Magic )
- Character Strengths : Communication , Courage , Curiosity , Integrity , Perseverance , Teamwork
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Rocky Pond Books
- Publication date : January 2, 2024
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 5 - 8
- Number of pages : 40
- Available on : Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Award : Common Sense Selection
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
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