Parents' Guide to The Princess in Black and the Giant Problem

Book Shannon Hale , Dean Hale Adventure 2020
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Common Sense Media Review

Regan McMahon By Regan McMahon , based on child development research. How do we rate?

age 5+

Teamwork rules in snowy adventure with new heroes.

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age 5+

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What's the Story?

A snowy playdate turns into a big in challenge in THE PRINCESS IN BLACK AND THE GIANT PROBLEM. The three hero friends -- the Princess in Black, the Princess in Blankets, and the Goat Avenger -- are confronted by a giant yelling "Squashy" and smashing things. As he heads toward the village, the Princess in Blankets sends a Sparkle Signal up into the sky, and four more princess heroes and their pet sidekicks see it in their kingdoms and answer the call. Will they be able to stop the giant before he destroys the village?

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say ( 1 ):
Kids say : Not yet rated

This snowy adventure finds some new ways to keep the series fresh. The Princess in Black and the Giant Problem goes beyond the hole down to Monster Land and gives the heroes someone new to battle: a giant. And the three main characters get help from four new princess heroes. We've met them before, but here we see them joining in to play a big part in saving the day. There are silly moments, lots of cartoon battle action, an emphasis on teamwork, and a fun twist about who the giant is and why he's on a rampage yelling "Squashy!"

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about the change in setting in The Princess in Black and the Giant Problem. How fun is it to see the many princess heroes and the Goat Avenger all bundled up and battling in the snow?

  • How does working together as a team help the princess heroes and the Goat Avenger stop the giant?

  • What do you think of the four new heroes' pet sidekicks? Which ones are your favorites?

Book Details

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