The Hero's Guide to Saving Your Kingdom by Christopher Healy

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Publication date: 2012
Publisher: Walden Pond Press
Pages: 438
My rating: 3.5 stars
Ages: 10+

Prince Charming is tired--tired of being called Prince Charming! There are four princes and none of them are called Charming; their names are Frederic, Gustav, Duncan, and Liam. All four have been immortalized in stories, but none of them get the credit they deserve. Together, they embark on an adventure sure to get them mentioned by name.

This is a really fun take on fairy tales, focusing on the princes instead of the princesses. Each of the princes have their little quirks that end up becoming strengths and being able to work together.

Though the book is long for middle grade at 438 pages, I think that advanced readers will be able to read it without any problem. I also think this would be a good read-aloud book for parents to share with their kids, as it has humor that can be enjoyed by adults and children alike. There are cute illustrations throughout the book, showing not only what the princes and princesses look like, but also what trolls, goblins, and dragons look like. The narration is fun as the narrator will break in occasionally, giving spoilers, or hints of what is to come. I also think this would probably be a good book for boys and reluctant readers.

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