Children's literature is quite delightful but the secret lives of Princesses by Philippe Lechermeier and illustrated by Rebecca Dautremer is divine. The 'cover girl' is Princess Hot-Head who chooses horse races over needlepoint, spits on the ground and likes to arm-wrestle.
Naturally my favourite princess in the book is Princess Paige. 'As soon as the ball is over or once the meal is done, Princess Paige scampers away and climbs the thousand steps which lead to her library.'
Even though she wouldn't appreciate it I find Princess Primandproper thrilling...in a spooky house kind of way. She 'Doesn't laugh anymore because the last time she did, her bun came undone, she tripped, and her skirt flew up over her head.' There was a marriage late in life to the Baron of Broken Hearts...see, there is someone for everyone!
I could never be a Princess Somnia. She 'Comes from a royal family of do-nothings. Laziness is their policy, and the sloth is their emblem.' It is also noted that she is related to Sleeping Beauty.
This sumptuous book is for savouring slowly, to pour over each detail of the writing and gorgeous illustrations and for making you smile. Do look for it and enjoy!