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Castle of Knots
When a beautiful young princess is trapped within a castle of knots---a mighty fortress covered in brambles, tangled weeds, and underbrush---a brave knight, also known as Mom, must cross the Valley of Dollies and Laundry Lake to take on the impossible task of freeing the princess...just in time for school.
- GenresChildrens
32 pages, Paperback
Published September 1, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
August 15, 2024
I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This book is so sweet and creative! I love the way Sara crafted an imaginary story around brushing the little girl’s hair! It’s cute, it’s sweet and it’s true to life because I remember being a little girl myself and having such a hard time when my mom brushed my hair. The illustrations are perfect! I read this with my seven-year-old son and he even enjoyed it and thought the story around the castle of knots was so funny! I can’t wait to see what Sara writes next!
This book is so sweet and creative! I love the way Sara crafted an imaginary story around brushing the little girl’s hair! It’s cute, it’s sweet and it’s true to life because I remember being a little girl myself and having such a hard time when my mom brushed my hair. The illustrations are perfect! I read this with my seven-year-old son and he even enjoyed it and thought the story around the castle of knots was so funny! I can’t wait to see what Sara writes next!
March 8, 2025
I feel seen
Oh my gosh, as the proud mother of a daughter with the tangliest castle of knots upon her hair, I feel so seen by this wonderful book. Every day is a struggle! I love the fairy tale twist (detangler as Magic potion, mom as knight). I am going to share this with my daughter as I brave my own daily battle. 🫡
Oh my gosh, as the proud mother of a daughter with the tangliest castle of knots upon her hair, I feel so seen by this wonderful book. Every day is a struggle! I love the fairy tale twist (detangler as Magic potion, mom as knight). I am going to share this with my daughter as I brave my own daily battle. 🫡
November 17, 2024
Do you ever have that bed head bad hair day?? Well the princess in ‘Castle of Knots’ certainly does! The Knight is brave and faces the challenge and *spoiler alert* she eventually defeats the knots and brings back the princess’s adorable face!! What a lovely story, it will inspire the imagination in your child, and in the child in you! My favourite page is where the knight opens the bedroom door, I think being able to talk about illustrations during storytime and make up stories in your head about what you see is the best thing and this illustration has it all (can you find the animals tucked up in bed??) This is a book to read again and again! Love it!
August 13, 2024
Castle of knots is an adorable children’s book that I read to my kids this past week. It is very well written and fun to read aloud! We will be reading this frequently!
September 3, 2024
Loved it!
As a mom of a little girl I love this book! My daughter loves it and asks for her knight to do her hair 💕
As a mom of a little girl I love this book! My daughter loves it and asks for her knight to do her hair 💕
September 19, 2024
Read this book to my class after one of our wonderful substitutes gifted it to us! They were so excited to read a book written by a local author and stayed engaged the whole time!
October 31, 2024
Cute
Most kids can identify with this little problem, and this book makes it a fun adventure. Give it a go!
🐾 H&K
Most kids can identify with this little problem, and this book makes it a fun adventure. Give it a go!
🐾 H&K
September 10, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I love the illustrations in Castle of Knots. This is such a fun story that children, especially those with long hair, will love to read.
I love the illustrations in Castle of Knots. This is such a fun story that children, especially those with long hair, will love to read.
September 24, 2024
This book was so adorable and brought back some fond memories! I love the wording and the heartfelt passion behind the story.
Secondly the format of the book/font was super kid friendly. My little princess can’t read yet, but I know she’ll enjoy this just the same! Illustrations were beautiful!
Secondly the format of the book/font was super kid friendly. My little princess can’t read yet, but I know she’ll enjoy this just the same! Illustrations were beautiful!
February 12, 2025
OMG! I loved it!!!
I absolutely love the story! Perfect story for any little girl that has knots in her hair! It’s fun and magical and talks about something real in the most fun and exciting way! I love the sophisticated language in this as well. I don’t think there’s enough children’s books out there that use bigger words. I think most authors are too scared to use them and this author did it in such a brilliant way. I absolutely, 100% recommend this book for any mom having to comb long hair!
I absolutely love the story! Perfect story for any little girl that has knots in her hair! It’s fun and magical and talks about something real in the most fun and exciting way! I love the sophisticated language in this as well. I don’t think there’s enough children’s books out there that use bigger words. I think most authors are too scared to use them and this author did it in such a brilliant way. I absolutely, 100% recommend this book for any mom having to comb long hair!
February 14, 2025
Castle of Knots by Sara H. Fowler with child friendly illustrations by Ivy Giddens is a beautiful story of problem solving with imagination. I love that both characters share in the imagery world of knights, princesses, and the world of underbrush. I highly recommend this adorable book.⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
August 1, 2024
Castle of Knots is a children's book, and the first publication of both author Sara H. Fowler, and illustrator, Ivy Giddens. It also received editorial support from Jaimie E. Miller.
The story follows the journey of a fearless parent (referred to in this story as the tale's heroic knight), as she battles to save a young princess from a very bad case of messy hair (or, as is the case in this story, a "castle of knots"). But this is no ordinary mission for our brave knight, and it will take more than one swipe of the hairbrush to free the princess from her monstrous entrapment and get her to school on time. The question is, does this knight have what it takes?
This is a delightful children's book to read, a fun story which takes readers on a journey relatable to most of the parents who are likely to be purchasing this book for their little ones. There is good balance in the number of words to a page and at about 30 pages long, Castle of Knots suits most bedtime rituals. The book should be treated as something to chuckle along at, less so than as something which imparts any strong moral messages. That is not to put this title at a disadvantage, but it is something minor for consideration for those would-be purchasers.
The storytelling is accompanied by a series of beautiful children's illustrative artwork. Gidden's talents shine from cover to cover within this book, and it is sincerely hoped that her debut offering to the illustrative world marks a stepping stone for her to pick up a string of future projects. The pictures jump off the page with clever use of style, colour and playful humour.
Castle of Knots is a great book and one perfect for the subset of younger readers (and their parents). Based solely around the interactions of a mother and daughter, it supports healthy relationship building while not being afraid to have a laugh at the same time. A solid four stars.
AEB Reviews
The story follows the journey of a fearless parent (referred to in this story as the tale's heroic knight), as she battles to save a young princess from a very bad case of messy hair (or, as is the case in this story, a "castle of knots"). But this is no ordinary mission for our brave knight, and it will take more than one swipe of the hairbrush to free the princess from her monstrous entrapment and get her to school on time. The question is, does this knight have what it takes?
This is a delightful children's book to read, a fun story which takes readers on a journey relatable to most of the parents who are likely to be purchasing this book for their little ones. There is good balance in the number of words to a page and at about 30 pages long, Castle of Knots suits most bedtime rituals. The book should be treated as something to chuckle along at, less so than as something which imparts any strong moral messages. That is not to put this title at a disadvantage, but it is something minor for consideration for those would-be purchasers.
The storytelling is accompanied by a series of beautiful children's illustrative artwork. Gidden's talents shine from cover to cover within this book, and it is sincerely hoped that her debut offering to the illustrative world marks a stepping stone for her to pick up a string of future projects. The pictures jump off the page with clever use of style, colour and playful humour.
Castle of Knots is a great book and one perfect for the subset of younger readers (and their parents). Based solely around the interactions of a mother and daughter, it supports healthy relationship building while not being afraid to have a laugh at the same time. A solid four stars.
AEB Reviews
May 8, 2025
This book was entered in The Wishing Shelf Book Awards. This is what our readers thought:
Title: Castle of Knots
Author: Sara H. Fowler, Ill. by Ivy Giddens
Star Rating: 5 Stars
Number of Readers: 15
Stats
Editing: 10/10
Writing Style: 9/10
Content: 10/10
Cover: 4/5
Of the 15 readers:
15 would read another book by this author.
13 thought the cover was good or excellent.
15 felt it was easy to follow.
15 would recommend this book to another reader to try.
Of all the readers, 8 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘plotting a story’.
Of all the readers, 3 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘developing the characters’.
Of all the readers, 4 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘writing style’.
15 felt the pacing was good or excellent.
15 thought the author understood the readership and what they wanted.
Readers’ Comments
“I liked how the mum was like a brave knight riding to the rescue. That was super clever.” Girl, aged 8
“I think this is a FAB book. I liked how the story is sort of like the story of the knight saving the princess from the tower and has to battle through the thorny forest – but in this book it’s the girl’s curls – and her bedroom!” Girl, aged 7 – with a little help from mum
“I think you would need to be a brave knight to get across my bedroom too! Very funny book. I liked it. The pics looked cool too!” Boy, aged 7 – with a little help from his TA
“What a clever story; a wonderful way of introducing the ‘fairytale’ to a youngster. And, being a mum, I understand how much of a challenge it is to untangle hair!!! Delightfully illustrated, and accessibly written too.” Mum of 6 year old girl
“A lot of thought went into this book. Perfect for a child’s bookshelf or a primary school library.” Primary school teacher, aged 58
To Sum It Up:
‘Delightfully illustrated, highly original and, best of all, lots of FUN! A FINALIST and highly recommended!’ Wishing Shelf Book Awards
Title: Castle of Knots
Author: Sara H. Fowler, Ill. by Ivy Giddens
Star Rating: 5 Stars
Number of Readers: 15
Stats
Editing: 10/10
Writing Style: 9/10
Content: 10/10
Cover: 4/5
Of the 15 readers:
15 would read another book by this author.
13 thought the cover was good or excellent.
15 felt it was easy to follow.
15 would recommend this book to another reader to try.
Of all the readers, 8 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘plotting a story’.
Of all the readers, 3 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘developing the characters’.
Of all the readers, 4 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘writing style’.
15 felt the pacing was good or excellent.
15 thought the author understood the readership and what they wanted.
Readers’ Comments
“I liked how the mum was like a brave knight riding to the rescue. That was super clever.” Girl, aged 8
“I think this is a FAB book. I liked how the story is sort of like the story of the knight saving the princess from the tower and has to battle through the thorny forest – but in this book it’s the girl’s curls – and her bedroom!” Girl, aged 7 – with a little help from mum
“I think you would need to be a brave knight to get across my bedroom too! Very funny book. I liked it. The pics looked cool too!” Boy, aged 7 – with a little help from his TA
“What a clever story; a wonderful way of introducing the ‘fairytale’ to a youngster. And, being a mum, I understand how much of a challenge it is to untangle hair!!! Delightfully illustrated, and accessibly written too.” Mum of 6 year old girl
“A lot of thought went into this book. Perfect for a child’s bookshelf or a primary school library.” Primary school teacher, aged 58
To Sum It Up:
‘Delightfully illustrated, highly original and, best of all, lots of FUN! A FINALIST and highly recommended!’ Wishing Shelf Book Awards
September 4, 2024
I received an advanced reader copy of this lovely story by Sara H. Fowler in exchange for my honest review.
This is a sweet, heartfelt story with illustrations that speak to both children and adults. In fact, the illustrations felt almost nostalgic to me - making me remember some of my favorite stories from my own childhood (back in the 90's!).
On the surface it is a charming story about a mom bracing herself to tackle her daughter's messy morning hair. so that she can help her prepare herself for the day ahead. However, on a deeper level, it is a story about love, imagination and acceptance -- a mom meeting her daughter right where she is at and creating magic in a mundane "everyday" occurrence. It's a good reminder to us parents to slow down and remember that we can create fun and joy in the littlest of things. The story moves at a fantastic pace, and I can totally see this appealing to children with particularly unruly hair (my own daughter will definitely identify with the girl in this story!).
A sweet read all around for readers young and... not so young. :) I very much enjoyed it!
This is a sweet, heartfelt story with illustrations that speak to both children and adults. In fact, the illustrations felt almost nostalgic to me - making me remember some of my favorite stories from my own childhood (back in the 90's!).
On the surface it is a charming story about a mom bracing herself to tackle her daughter's messy morning hair. so that she can help her prepare herself for the day ahead. However, on a deeper level, it is a story about love, imagination and acceptance -- a mom meeting her daughter right where she is at and creating magic in a mundane "everyday" occurrence. It's a good reminder to us parents to slow down and remember that we can create fun and joy in the littlest of things. The story moves at a fantastic pace, and I can totally see this appealing to children with particularly unruly hair (my own daughter will definitely identify with the girl in this story!).
A sweet read all around for readers young and... not so young. :) I very much enjoyed it!
March 1, 2025
The author uses her imagination to weave a story about what could be a common problem for young children, untangling a full head of curly hair.
In this tale, the mom is a hero knight who comes to her daughter's rescue, the princess. She must wrestle with the hair tangle problem so that the young girl can make her way to school. The story is told with just enough challenging vocabulary to test beginning readers and illustrated with simple, charming pictures.
Reading this book will put a smile on the face of anyone who has ever faced this problem. Recommended for readers in the four to eight age range, but fun for any age reader.
In this tale, the mom is a hero knight who comes to her daughter's rescue, the princess. She must wrestle with the hair tangle problem so that the young girl can make her way to school. The story is told with just enough challenging vocabulary to test beginning readers and illustrated with simple, charming pictures.
Reading this book will put a smile on the face of anyone who has ever faced this problem. Recommended for readers in the four to eight age range, but fun for any age reader.
December 20, 2025
A delightful children’s book with charming illustrations and a story that will feel instantly familiar to parents.
Castle of Knots turns a common morning ritual into a playful fantasy quest, transforming tangled hair into a bramble-covered fortress and a determined mom into a heroic knight. The pacing is gentle, the humor lands naturally, and the balance between text and illustration makes it ideal for bedtime reading.
The artwork is especially engaging bright, expressive, and full of warmth bringing humor and heart to every page. A sweet, relatable story that celebrates parent–child connection without taking itself too seriously.
Castle of Knots turns a common morning ritual into a playful fantasy quest, transforming tangled hair into a bramble-covered fortress and a determined mom into a heroic knight. The pacing is gentle, the humor lands naturally, and the balance between text and illustration makes it ideal for bedtime reading.
The artwork is especially engaging bright, expressive, and full of warmth bringing humor and heart to every page. A sweet, relatable story that celebrates parent–child connection without taking itself too seriously.
January 15, 2025
Very Creative and Beautifully Illustrated!
"Castle of Knots" is a delightful children's book that turns the everyday struggle of brushing tangled hair into a magical adventure. A mother and daughter navigate the "Castle of Knots" (the morning routine of brushing major bedhead), making this relatable to both parents and children.
The imaginative story, playful tone, and vibrant illustrations bring this enchanting world to life. "Castle of Knots" is a charming read that celebrates the parent-child bond and reminds us that even simple routines can be extraordinary. Highly recommended!
"Castle of Knots" is a delightful children's book that turns the everyday struggle of brushing tangled hair into a magical adventure. A mother and daughter navigate the "Castle of Knots" (the morning routine of brushing major bedhead), making this relatable to both parents and children.
The imaginative story, playful tone, and vibrant illustrations bring this enchanting world to life. "Castle of Knots" is a charming read that celebrates the parent-child bond and reminds us that even simple routines can be extraordinary. Highly recommended!
September 1, 2025
I love Sara Fowler's talent and humor! She brilliantly turns a simple morning routine into a fun new world of knights and potions. The determined knight has a mission: to find the princess hidden beneath a fortress covered in brambles. The knight's tool of choice is a sword disguised as a hairbrush. This clever picture book will inspire parents to turn challenging tasks into adventures that encourage kids to keep using their imagination, transforming distasteful chores into enjoyable experiences.
September 5, 2025
A delightful read-aloud for any family who has ever wrestled with hair in the morning!
This book made me smile from the very first page. The “castle of knots” is such a clever and funny way to describe the wild tangles kids sometimes wake up with. I loved how the story turns a daily struggle into a magical, playful adventure. The knight (aka Mom) made me laugh out loud as she crossed Laundry Lake and battled the brambles.
This book made me smile from the very first page. The “castle of knots” is such a clever and funny way to describe the wild tangles kids sometimes wake up with. I loved how the story turns a daily struggle into a magical, playful adventure. The knight (aka Mom) made me laugh out loud as she crossed Laundry Lake and battled the brambles.
January 18, 2026
Morning knot challenge accepted!
What a clever way to describe the emotional, challenging, difficult task of detangling a daughter’s hair! Having two girls and many nieces, I understand the feeling from a mom and daughter’s perspective. The old world wording is great and will help build a young reader’s vocabulary. This is a great read for kids with long or tangly hair that hate getting their hair brushed and will definitely ease that anxiety.
What a clever way to describe the emotional, challenging, difficult task of detangling a daughter’s hair! Having two girls and many nieces, I understand the feeling from a mom and daughter’s perspective. The old world wording is great and will help build a young reader’s vocabulary. This is a great read for kids with long or tangly hair that hate getting their hair brushed and will definitely ease that anxiety.
August 17, 2025
A comical mother-daughter story
I laughed as I related to the trials of getting a young lady ready for the day. The memories of my own mother and grandmother doing my hair came back to me.
This is ideal for those who appreciate the hustle, love and dedication to caring for a spirited child.
I laughed as I related to the trials of getting a young lady ready for the day. The memories of my own mother and grandmother doing my hair came back to me.
This is ideal for those who appreciate the hustle, love and dedication to caring for a spirited child.
October 9, 2024
Just loved Castle of knots its an adorable children’s book with great fun illustrations. It is beautifully written about knotty hairbrushing to reveal a beautiful princess beneath! It brilliant. Well done Sara H Fowler.
October 22, 2024
Castle of Knots by Sara H. Fowler is a delightful read from beginning to end. Parents and children will enjoy this clever and amusing story. I particularly enjoyed the little twist at the end. I highly recommend this heartwarming book!
February 6, 2025
Castle of Knots is well written and keeps both children and parents entertained. The story and vocabulary are complex enough that parents are intrigued but written in a style to keep even the youngest toddlers interest until the end. My own little one request it often for her bedtime story.
September 4, 2025
Tackling the knots
This was such a fun way of looking at combining through your daughter’s hair! I loved the story of a princess and how the mom is a knight trying to help get the princess out of the weeds! Creative and fun!
This was such a fun way of looking at combining through your daughter’s hair! I loved the story of a princess and how the mom is a knight trying to help get the princess out of the weeds! Creative and fun!
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews