Title: Princess Princess Ever After
Author: Kay O’Neill
First published September 1, 2014
53 pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 9781620103401 (ISBN10: 1620103400)
Rating: 4.01
Overview
“I am no prince!” Princess Amira declares when she rescues a princess named Sadie from her tower prison. Little did they know that they would become close friends and embark on an adventure that would test their bravery and kindness.
As they travel across the kingdom, they discover that their differences make their friendship stronger. However, a jealous sorceress threatens to tear them apart.
In order to defeat her, Sadie and Amira must combine their unique strengths and knowledge to overcome this great obstacle. Will they find their happily ever after?
Join them on their journey to discover the true meaning of friendship and love in Princess Princess Ever After by Kay O’Neill.
About the Author
Meet Kay O’Neill, a talented illustrator and graphic novelist hailing from New Zealand. Known for their heartwarming and whimsical tales, Kay has authored several acclaimed works, including Princess Princess Ever After, The Tea Dragon Society, and Aquicorn Cove.
Their stories often feature gentle fantasy elements that are perfect for younger readers, and are inspired by their love for tea, creatures, and the beauty of everyday life.
In a recent Instagram post on December 17th, 2020, Kay shared that they prefer to go by “Kay” and use they/them pronouns.
Editoral Review
“Princess Princess Ever After” by Kay O’Neill is a heartwarming and entertaining graphic novel that should appeal to a wide audience, especially those who enjoy LGBTQ+ themes and fairy tale adaptations. The author, Kay O’Neill, is a cartoonist based in Chicago who has worked on other comics and anthologies such as Cautionary Fables and Fairytales.
The graphic novel is a blend of fairy tale and modern themes that presents the story of two princesses, Amira and Sadie, who form an unlikely friendship while fighting against danger and oppression. The characters are well-developed, with unique personalities and backstories that complement the plot.
Amira is a brave and adventurous princess who rescues Sadie from a tower guarded by a dragon, but it turns out that both of them need saving. Sadie is a lonely princess who has lost her family and needs to find her purpose in life, while Amira struggles to reconcile her identity with the expectations of her family and kingdom.
The setting is also vital to the story, with elements of magic and mystery that add to the atmosphere. The artwork is beautiful, with vibrant colors and expressive characters that complement the witty dialogue and engaging narrative.
The pacing of the story is well-balanced, with enough action and emotional moments to keep the reader invested in the story. One of the strengths of the graphic novel is its message about love and acceptance, emphasizing the importance of self-discovery and authentic relationships.
The fairy tale motifs are woven into the story seamlessly, adding a touch of whimsy and nostalgia to a modern storyline. The themes of identity, gender, and diversity are also addressed in an accessible and inclusive way that should resonate with readers of all ages.
However, one limitation of the graphic novel is that some of the conflict and resolution might feel rushed or predictable, especially for readers familiar with fairy tales. The targeted audience for “Princess Princess Ever After” is mostly young adults, but it can also appeal to children and adults who enjoy light-hearted stories with positive messages.
Overall, “Princess Princess Ever After” is a delightful and uplifting graphic novel that should leave readers feeling inspired and entertained. The Washington Post highly recommends this book for anyone who loves LGBTQ+ themes, fairy tales, or heartwarming stories that celebrate diversity and inclusivity.
We give it a score of 4 out of 5 stars for its well-crafted storytelling, engaging characters, and beautiful artwork.
