THE FIX-IT PRINCESS BY JANEEN BRIAN

Princess Shona is worried. Mum-Queen and Dad-King took off on a quick trip, travelling on a Wing-Thing. They were hoping to enjoy a birthday treat on a flying machine invented by their daughter. But it’s been two days since they left and Shona is very concerned. She only has a portrait of her Nana to talk to, apart from some chickens and an ancient horse called Wildfire. What should she do? There’s no money to buy food and she’s getting sick of eggs. And on top of these worries, the hen house is falling down and she will have to fix it before she can start the search for her parents. Obstacles are piling up to prevent her from getting to the market in town to ask after her parents. The drawbridge is proving very difficult to manage and she must also pass close to the haunted woods. Shona, luckily has a great can-do attitude and finally manages to leave the castle.

A few days later, when she is feeling particularly despondent, Shona hears singing and is immediately drawn to find whoever has such a beautiful, mesmerising voice. Whenever Shona sings, animals and people seem to get distracted and run away. She discovers Dragon who has a bad tooth ache and invites him back to the castle to fix it. Together they embark on an adventure, rescue mission.

Janeen Brian’s novel is a great in-between book that bridges from Junior Fiction into Middle Grade. With relatively short chapters, interspersed with the wonderful illustrations of Cherie Dignam, readers are drawn to the cheery, positive character of the Fix-it Princess. The themes of resilience, having a go, independence, friendship and family play throughout the story and give the reader a lovely light hearted positive experience.

For Ages: 7-10 years

Number of Pages: 160

Published: March 2023 Walker Books

Themes: Resilience, perseverance, family and friendship

Purchase here: https://www.walkerbooks.com.au/book/9781760654825/