Jacqueline and the Beanstalk: A Tale of Facing Giant Fears
Susan D. Sweet and Brenda S. Miles, Authors
Valeria Docampo, Illustrator
Magination Press, Fiction, Sep. 12, 2017
Suitable for Ages: 4-8
Themes: Facing fears and anxieties, Fractured Fairy Tale, Princess, Beanstalk
Opening: Once upon a time there lived a princess named Jacqueline. The royal knights protected her — from EVERYTHING! “Shields up! There mighteth be danger!”
Synopsis: A princess named Jacqueline is surrounded by overprotective knights. They want to protect her from danger, but they’re not even sure if there is any danger! When Jacqueline climbs up a beanstalk, she meets a giant who is just as afraid of the knights! Soon Jacqueline shows them all that there is nothing to fear at the other end of the beanstalk.
What I like about this book:
The authors’ modern retelling of this humorous and enchanting classic fairy tale helps children face their fears, through a curious, adventurous, and fearless Princess Jacqueline.
The use of repetition by the knights is very effective. “Shields up! There mighteth be danger!” But the princess repeatedly responds, “But there might not be, and I can’t see…twirl…reach…” This spunky princess feels smothered by helicopter knights who protect her. And this princess doesn’t like it one bit!
Puzzled by her knights fear, she slips away and climbs a beanstalk only meet a BIG giant who shouts “AHHHHH! Human! Different! Danger!” What’s a princess to do? You got it — coax the giant to climb down the beanstalk with her. But how will her kingdom react? This princess has some serious challenges on her hands. I won’t spoil the ending.
Docampo’s illustrations are colorful, bold and gorgeous! She shows cowardly knights and a giant shuttering in fear. So much expression and emotion are poured into her inspiring illustrations. They are a feast for children’s eyes.
Resources: There is a Note Parents and Caregivers at the end with worry-busting strategies and calming tools. Many children struggle with worries and anxiety, so they will enjoy seeing the tables turned in this tantalizing fairy tale with the knights, giant and kingdom fearful. But the message won’t be lost and Jacqueline will be their hero!
*The publisher provided me with an advanced reading copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Every Friday, authors and KidLit bloggers post a favorite picture book. To see a complete listing of all the Perfect Picture Books (PPB) with resources, please visit author Susanna Leonard Hill’s website.
So clever!
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Yes, I love the twist on this popular fairy tale. Knight hovering!
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Hope I can get it from the library- need to know how it ends! You’d really like the illustrations!
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Ha! Ha! The ending is good.
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I’ve got a hold on it!
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Oh, great! I’m so glad it’s in the libraries.
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Sounds like a great spin on an old classic. Love that Jack is now Jacqueline.
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I really like that Jaqueline replaced Jack. Forgot to say so. It is a fun spin on a fairy tale.
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I want to meet this giant!
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I love the giant, such a beautiful depiction. He’s a great character.
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I love the idea of a female main character in this version. I have noticed many parents are overprotective nowadays. Perhaps this will put some perspective on it.
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The story is about kids learning to face fears. Love that we have a spunky heroine to show the way! I loved the helicopter knights.
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Sounds like a winner! I love the cover!
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Yes, the cover grabs your attention right away! The book will have kids cheering.
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Patricia, great find. I have not seen this type of a fracturing of Jack and the Beanstalk. Looking forward to reading this one.
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It is definitely going to be popular with kids. The art is magnificent.
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This sounds like a story for helicopter parents!
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The message is very subtle, as seen through the knights. Such a fun read!
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What a fun book! Love the cover too. Congratulations!
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The cover really draws you to this romping story. Fun read aloud and discussion book!
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I am all for changing gender and fairy-tale structure to reflect societal issues now. Lovely twist.
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I agree 100 percent. Jacqueline is a spunky, curious heroine. Great ending.
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What a beautiful story and I so love the cover. The illustrations are striking and theme universal. Lovely choice Pat.
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I really enjoyed this retelling with a female Jack.
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What a wonderful take on this tale – I love how different it is! 😀
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Both you and Josie would love this retelling because it is so unique. Jacqueline is quite feisty.
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This sounds like such a fun book, Patricia. I do like the way fairy tales are being fractured to include more positive messages for children. When girls are empowered in literature, both boys and girls are required to adjust stereotypical views of girls and their abilities.
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Thank you for your lovely comment. This curious princess shows the kingdom that there is nothing to fear — only differences.
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What a great message!
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