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Princess Kevin
This year, Kevin is going to the school costume show as a princess. His costume is perfect but he knows that the best costumes are authentic. So he is outraged that none of the knights will partner with him and complete the look. Things don't go quite a smoothly as he planned. Next year, there is only one thing for it. He will just have to be something even more fabulous.
This is a heartwarming and funny story about imagination, diversity and persevering at expressing your fabulous self.
This is a heartwarming and funny story about imagination, diversity and persevering at expressing your fabulous self.
32 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2018
1 person is currently reading
99 people want to read
About the author
Michaël Escoffier
142 books45 followersMichaël Escoffier was born in France in 1970. He discovered his passion for writing and telling stories at a young age. He lives in Lyon, France, with his wife and two children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
June 14, 2023
5★
“(When you wear a costume, the whole point is that you become someone totally different. Otherwise, it makes no sense to dress up in the first place.)”
I couldn’t agree more! You go, Kevin!
“Today is the school fancy dress show. Everyone thinks Kevin will go as a knight, or a cowboy or a superhero.”
Everyone would be wrong! Kevin has his own ideas and is going to make this happen. He has a mother and a sister, and he has his eye on their wardrobes and lipstick.
Incidentally, I love the way the hand on the side of the picture is holding the Superman outfit with only two fingers, as if it is soiled and/or smelly (which, knowing how little kids ‘look after’ their clothes, it probably is. 😂)
“ But Kevin is a princess. People might laugh, but he doesn’t care. Kevin is a princess, and that is that.”
On the way to school, he discusses his choice with a friend who seems happy to be a cat.
“ Anyway, who said that only girls can dress up like princesses? The girls in his class can dress up as knights and cowboys. If they can do what they want, so can Kevin.”
He had hoped to complete his look, accompanied by a knight, but none of the knights would pair up with him. They think boys shouldn’t wear pink, and it might be catching!
“And knights are supposed to be brave! These ones are a bunch of chickens.”
Never mind. Poor Chloe is being teased (and by Kevin, too) about her ‘dragon’ costume, saying it looks more like a sock. Her dad made it, and yes, I can see the dragon elements, but it does resemble a big sock.
Kevin apologises and says she does actually look really nice, even if a bit like a sock.
“ ‘Thanks Kevin, you look very nice in that dress.’
Kevin blushes and hopes Chloe doesn’t notice under all the make-up.”
As they gather to go in for the show, Kevin is wobbling on his high heels, wondering how princesses put up with the torture. (Ah, what price beauty, Kevin!) On stage, he stumbles and nearly knocks everyone over. He lasts until the class photo and stalks off. He’s had enough.
“ ‘I don’t want to be a real princess, it’s way too complicated. Next year, I’m keeping it simple,’ Kevin says.”
“ ‘I’m going to be a mermaid!’”
I love the story, partly because it reminded me of my daughter telling me that in their preschool, the first kids into the fancy dress gowns and jewels were the boys. They loved the glitz and the pretending. I think I always fancied myself as a cowboy.
There’s no indication in this book that there is any message other than use your imagination, enjoy life, and enjoy watching and helping others enjoy themselves, too. Don’t waste your time being judgmental. I must say I did like the crack about the boys dressed up as knights not being very brave. If that makes me judgy, well so be it!
This bright little story was published a few years ago, but it has appeared again on NetGalley, which is where I found it. Thanks to NetGalley and Frances Lincoln Children’s Books for the copy for review.
“(When you wear a costume, the whole point is that you become someone totally different. Otherwise, it makes no sense to dress up in the first place.)”
I couldn’t agree more! You go, Kevin!
“Today is the school fancy dress show. Everyone thinks Kevin will go as a knight, or a cowboy or a superhero.”
Everyone would be wrong! Kevin has his own ideas and is going to make this happen. He has a mother and a sister, and he has his eye on their wardrobes and lipstick.
Incidentally, I love the way the hand on the side of the picture is holding the Superman outfit with only two fingers, as if it is soiled and/or smelly (which, knowing how little kids ‘look after’ their clothes, it probably is. 😂)
“ But Kevin is a princess. People might laugh, but he doesn’t care. Kevin is a princess, and that is that.”
On the way to school, he discusses his choice with a friend who seems happy to be a cat.
“ Anyway, who said that only girls can dress up like princesses? The girls in his class can dress up as knights and cowboys. If they can do what they want, so can Kevin.”
He had hoped to complete his look, accompanied by a knight, but none of the knights would pair up with him. They think boys shouldn’t wear pink, and it might be catching!
“And knights are supposed to be brave! These ones are a bunch of chickens.”
Never mind. Poor Chloe is being teased (and by Kevin, too) about her ‘dragon’ costume, saying it looks more like a sock. Her dad made it, and yes, I can see the dragon elements, but it does resemble a big sock.
Kevin apologises and says she does actually look really nice, even if a bit like a sock.
“ ‘Thanks Kevin, you look very nice in that dress.’
Kevin blushes and hopes Chloe doesn’t notice under all the make-up.”
As they gather to go in for the show, Kevin is wobbling on his high heels, wondering how princesses put up with the torture. (Ah, what price beauty, Kevin!) On stage, he stumbles and nearly knocks everyone over. He lasts until the class photo and stalks off. He’s had enough.
“ ‘I don’t want to be a real princess, it’s way too complicated. Next year, I’m keeping it simple,’ Kevin says.”
“ ‘I’m going to be a mermaid!’”
I love the story, partly because it reminded me of my daughter telling me that in their preschool, the first kids into the fancy dress gowns and jewels were the boys. They loved the glitz and the pretending. I think I always fancied myself as a cowboy.
There’s no indication in this book that there is any message other than use your imagination, enjoy life, and enjoy watching and helping others enjoy themselves, too. Don’t waste your time being judgmental. I must say I did like the crack about the boys dressed up as knights not being very brave. If that makes me judgy, well so be it!
This bright little story was published a few years ago, but it has appeared again on NetGalley, which is where I found it. Thanks to NetGalley and Frances Lincoln Children’s Books for the copy for review.
March 19, 2021
When you read a book with a huge grin on your face from the first page to the last, you know it is going to be a 5 star read! (I would have given this 10 stars if GoodReads had allowed it.)
Very rarely do I choose a NetGalley book solely on the basis of its cover, and then I hope that the story meets the expectations set by the cover. In this case, I’m happy to report: Yes, it does! What an awesome story this turned out to be! And a story not restricted to any gender. This is a story for every little boy and girl, no matter what their biological gender. As the book rightly says, girls get complete freedom to dress up as whatever character pleases them but boys are stuck with the same old boring costumes, and dare the costume be pink in colour… Oh, the horror! Kevin decides to buck this trend and dress up for the school fancy dress show as what he wants to: a princess in pink.
The book sets all prejudices about costumes right and shows how you need to follow your heart and do whatever makes you happy. What I want to specifically highlight is that the book doesn’t cater to any assumptions. You might assume that Kevin chose the dress because he likes girly things. Or because he loves dresses. Or because he is a girl trapped in a boy’s body. Gender fluidity has become a necessary topic, but because of this, we assume that every boy in a dress is a girl waiting to come out. (Sounds silly, I know. But it is a silly assumption too!) What this book simply says is: here is a boy who chose to dress up as a girl for a fancy dress show. That’s it, simple and sweet. The takeaways depend on you. And that makes this book so flexible in its target audience.
No matter how much I write in this review, it won’t be sufficient to convey to you my utter joy at reading this book. The story, the characters, the narrative flow, the illustrations, all were absolutely perfect.
There is rarely a book for which I can declare: I want to change nothing about it! Go for it without any hesitation.
Thank you, NetGalley and Quarto Publishing Group, for the Advanced Review Copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
***********************
Join me on the Facebook group, Readers Forever! , for more reviews, book-related discussions and fun.
Follow me on Instagram: RoshReviews
Very rarely do I choose a NetGalley book solely on the basis of its cover, and then I hope that the story meets the expectations set by the cover. In this case, I’m happy to report: Yes, it does! What an awesome story this turned out to be! And a story not restricted to any gender. This is a story for every little boy and girl, no matter what their biological gender. As the book rightly says, girls get complete freedom to dress up as whatever character pleases them but boys are stuck with the same old boring costumes, and dare the costume be pink in colour… Oh, the horror! Kevin decides to buck this trend and dress up for the school fancy dress show as what he wants to: a princess in pink.
The book sets all prejudices about costumes right and shows how you need to follow your heart and do whatever makes you happy. What I want to specifically highlight is that the book doesn’t cater to any assumptions. You might assume that Kevin chose the dress because he likes girly things. Or because he loves dresses. Or because he is a girl trapped in a boy’s body. Gender fluidity has become a necessary topic, but because of this, we assume that every boy in a dress is a girl waiting to come out. (Sounds silly, I know. But it is a silly assumption too!) What this book simply says is: here is a boy who chose to dress up as a girl for a fancy dress show. That’s it, simple and sweet. The takeaways depend on you. And that makes this book so flexible in its target audience.
No matter how much I write in this review, it won’t be sufficient to convey to you my utter joy at reading this book. The story, the characters, the narrative flow, the illustrations, all were absolutely perfect.
There is rarely a book for which I can declare: I want to change nothing about it! Go for it without any hesitation.
Thank you, NetGalley and Quarto Publishing Group, for the Advanced Review Copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
***********************
Join me on the Facebook group, Readers Forever! , for more reviews, book-related discussions and fun.
Follow me on Instagram: RoshReviews
July 5, 2023
4.5 Stars
Well, it’s costume day at school, and Kevin decides he wants to be a princess. With a pink ball gown, some high heels, a tiara, and with a touch of lipstick, he is off to school. Not everyone likes his princess costume, and no knight wants to partner with him. Silly, right? That’s what Kevin thinks too!
Of course, over the day, he realizes that being a princess may not be as easy as it sounds. After all, those high heels are dangerous. But he still has enough fun and decides he’ll pick a simpler costume the next time.
This book is one of those where you take things as they are. The curtains are pink because they are pink. There’s no hidden meaning or intent or something to unearth and analyze. You are free to do so, but that may not be effective.
Here, we have a boy who wants to be a princess on a costume day. He likes the idea of it and implements it. He is also okay with others not liking it (though he can’t help but resent their actions a little). Maybe he takes it out on his bestie Chloe, but soon realizes his mistake and apologizes.
I like that Kevin is not a perfect model child. He isn't willing to deal with the side effects of being a princess. So, naturally, he sulks and decides he’s had enough. That’s quite realistic, IMO.
The illustrations are quirky, funny, and super cute. Those upturned noses have to be the highlight, lol. Messy hair, wide mouths, diverse skin tones, etc., make the book quite endearing.
To summarize, Princess Kevin is a cute little story with a straightforward plot. It is inclusive, albeit in a different manner.
I received an ARC from Edelweiss+ and Quarto Publishing Group – Frances Lincoln Children's Books and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Well, it’s costume day at school, and Kevin decides he wants to be a princess. With a pink ball gown, some high heels, a tiara, and with a touch of lipstick, he is off to school. Not everyone likes his princess costume, and no knight wants to partner with him. Silly, right? That’s what Kevin thinks too!
Of course, over the day, he realizes that being a princess may not be as easy as it sounds. After all, those high heels are dangerous. But he still has enough fun and decides he’ll pick a simpler costume the next time.
This book is one of those where you take things as they are. The curtains are pink because they are pink. There’s no hidden meaning or intent or something to unearth and analyze. You are free to do so, but that may not be effective.
Here, we have a boy who wants to be a princess on a costume day. He likes the idea of it and implements it. He is also okay with others not liking it (though he can’t help but resent their actions a little). Maybe he takes it out on his bestie Chloe, but soon realizes his mistake and apologizes.
I like that Kevin is not a perfect model child. He isn't willing to deal with the side effects of being a princess. So, naturally, he sulks and decides he’s had enough. That’s quite realistic, IMO.
The illustrations are quirky, funny, and super cute. Those upturned noses have to be the highlight, lol. Messy hair, wide mouths, diverse skin tones, etc., make the book quite endearing.
To summarize, Princess Kevin is a cute little story with a straightforward plot. It is inclusive, albeit in a different manner.
I received an ARC from Edelweiss+ and Quarto Publishing Group – Frances Lincoln Children's Books and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 6, 2020
Highly amusing book!
The illustrations are perfect and the story is adorable.
I like that the author didn't try to make Kevin some sort of spectacle.
Instead we are taken through the day of a boy dressed like a princess and all that brings to him personally.
We need more books like this!
Much love to NetGalley & Quarto Publishing Group - Frances Lincoln Childrens for my DRC.
The illustrations are perfect and the story is adorable.
I like that the author didn't try to make Kevin some sort of spectacle.
Instead we are taken through the day of a boy dressed like a princess and all that brings to him personally.
We need more books like this!
Much love to NetGalley & Quarto Publishing Group - Frances Lincoln Childrens for my DRC.
April 21, 2021
4☆ An Inspiring and Engaging Children's Picture Book.
Princess Kevin is a fantastic Children’s Book that explores and teaches children that it's ok to be different.
Kevin has a fancy dress day at school, but he's fed up with his usual costumes and decides he wants to go to school as a Princess in a Pink Dress.
After all why can't he be a princess?
Girls wear Cowboy and superhero costumes..don't they?!
So he gets his costume on and heads to school.
But he soon finds out that the other boys don't want to play with him and are unkind, taunting him that boy's don't wear dresses!
Kevin has had enough of being a Princess, he's high heels hurt his feet, he keeps falling over his dress and next year he decides he's dressing up as something completely different.... I'll let you find out for yourselves what it is 🙊
I loved how this book is diverse and shows children that it's ok to be different, be individual and experiment with different Personalities.
It also teaches children that they need to be Kind and respectful to each other.
This book would be perfect in schools and for story time reading.
I think it's a great reas for children aged 4-7years.
Princess Kevin is a Fun, Engaging and Entertaining read, the illustrations are beautifully presented and this really is a special little book.
Thank you to Quarto Publishing Group and Netgalley for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
Princess Kevin is a fantastic Children’s Book that explores and teaches children that it's ok to be different.
Kevin has a fancy dress day at school, but he's fed up with his usual costumes and decides he wants to go to school as a Princess in a Pink Dress.
After all why can't he be a princess?
Girls wear Cowboy and superhero costumes..don't they?!
So he gets his costume on and heads to school.
But he soon finds out that the other boys don't want to play with him and are unkind, taunting him that boy's don't wear dresses!
Kevin has had enough of being a Princess, he's high heels hurt his feet, he keeps falling over his dress and next year he decides he's dressing up as something completely different.... I'll let you find out for yourselves what it is 🙊
I loved how this book is diverse and shows children that it's ok to be different, be individual and experiment with different Personalities.
It also teaches children that they need to be Kind and respectful to each other.
This book would be perfect in schools and for story time reading.
I think it's a great reas for children aged 4-7years.
Princess Kevin is a Fun, Engaging and Entertaining read, the illustrations are beautifully presented and this really is a special little book.
Thank you to Quarto Publishing Group and Netgalley for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
February 2, 2020
Planning on reading Princess Kevin with my young nieces and nephews
Princess Kevin is an adorable , quirky pictures book about a boy Kevin who wants to wants to be a princess for his school's costume show.
Kevin's want the entire princess package; the beautiful pink gown , the high heels , the make up and of course the crown and we see Kevin in his glorious princess self , Kevin soon realize it isn't easy being a princess and he is doing his very best to be but so perhaps it will be a good idea to wear something more practical and less tiring than heels for next year costume show.
I love the tone and the approach book was written . There is no moralizing , pedantic and goody-goody parents , other kids, teacher telling Kevin , he couldn't be a princess , that he couldn't wear what he wanted to wear. The message of the story is more about the reality and what it takes to be a princess and that only by experiencing , he could know.
The pictures are very cute and the other kids costumes are funny and sweet.
I just reviewed Princess Kevin by Michael Escoffier. #PrincessKevin #NetGalley
Princess Kevin is an adorable , quirky pictures book about a boy Kevin who wants to wants to be a princess for his school's costume show.
Kevin's want the entire princess package; the beautiful pink gown , the high heels , the make up and of course the crown and we see Kevin in his glorious princess self , Kevin soon realize it isn't easy being a princess and he is doing his very best to be but so perhaps it will be a good idea to wear something more practical and less tiring than heels for next year costume show.
I love the tone and the approach book was written . There is no moralizing , pedantic and goody-goody parents , other kids, teacher telling Kevin , he couldn't be a princess , that he couldn't wear what he wanted to wear. The message of the story is more about the reality and what it takes to be a princess and that only by experiencing , he could know.
The pictures are very cute and the other kids costumes are funny and sweet.
I just reviewed Princess Kevin by Michael Escoffier. #PrincessKevin #NetGalley
January 31, 2020
Kevin really doesn't care what the other kids think. He just wants to be a princess for his school's costume show. He comes up with a great princess costume, complete with high heels and makeup. There's just one thing missing: a knight. But none of the boys want to be Kevin's knight in shining armour. In fact, the only kid who seems to "get" Kevin is Chloe, who is supposedly dressed as a dragon (but looks more like a sock thanks to her dad's lack of costuming abilities). By the end of the day, Kevin's kind of had enough of being a princess, but not because of what anyone else thinks. Who thought high heels were a good idea, anyway? So when it comes time to think of what he's going to be the next year, he decides to keep it simple (while still apparently not giving a hoot what anyone else thinks).
Themes of bravery, friendship, and smashing gender norms are woven throughout this amusing story about a little boy who just wants to be a princess. After all, he reasons, girls can be cowboys and knights... so why can't he be a princess? It's probably pretty rare to find a kid who's either this oblivious or who just doesn't care about the opinions of others... but I kind of like that he's written that way. It shows kids that it's okay to dress up in the costume you really like, even if some of the other kids don't understand your choice.
The illustrations are amusing. Chloe really does look like a sock. And it's fun to see all the other costumes that Kevin's class is wearing.
This is definitely a book to check out if you're looking for titles that feature themes of diversity and standing up for yourself. It will probably also find an audience with readers who love dressing up as much as Kevin does.
Thank you to NetGalley and Frances Lincoln Children's Books for providing a digital ARC.
Themes of bravery, friendship, and smashing gender norms are woven throughout this amusing story about a little boy who just wants to be a princess. After all, he reasons, girls can be cowboys and knights... so why can't he be a princess? It's probably pretty rare to find a kid who's either this oblivious or who just doesn't care about the opinions of others... but I kind of like that he's written that way. It shows kids that it's okay to dress up in the costume you really like, even if some of the other kids don't understand your choice.
The illustrations are amusing. Chloe really does look like a sock. And it's fun to see all the other costumes that Kevin's class is wearing.
This is definitely a book to check out if you're looking for titles that feature themes of diversity and standing up for yourself. It will probably also find an audience with readers who love dressing up as much as Kevin does.
Thank you to NetGalley and Frances Lincoln Children's Books for providing a digital ARC.
June 4, 2020
Kevin wants to dress as a princess, because, the whole point of dress-up is to dress as something you aren't. It is all make believe, and he doesn't care what anyone thinks.
What I love is how determined he is, and the only thing he dislikes about his costume is that the heels are hard to walk in, and the dress is so long he tends to trip over it.
But he doesn't think that dressing differently than his gender is the problem at all, and in fact, next year he wants to dress as a mermaid.
Great book that disregards stereotypes, and gender norms, and just shows happy kids doing what they want to do.
Thanks to Edelweiss for making this book available for an honest review.
What I love is how determined he is, and the only thing he dislikes about his costume is that the heels are hard to walk in, and the dress is so long he tends to trip over it.
But he doesn't think that dressing differently than his gender is the problem at all, and in fact, next year he wants to dress as a mermaid.
Great book that disregards stereotypes, and gender norms, and just shows happy kids doing what they want to do.
Thanks to Edelweiss for making this book available for an honest review.
November 24, 2019
Tierno, adorable, y divertido.
¿Por qué iba a haber algún problema si un niño quisiera vestirse de princesa?
Ideal para los más peques, pero también indispensable para todas las edades.
¿Por qué iba a haber algún problema si un niño quisiera vestirse de princesa?
Ideal para los más peques, pero también indispensable para todas las edades.
February 18, 2020
I'm of two minds about this book.
On one hand - it's super cute, the illustrations are perfect, bright and fun for kids. It has a cute message and one that will stick with kids.
However, I also feel like it missed the mark in a few places. For one, it says that Kevin can be who he wants to be, that if it's fine for girls to dress as boy characters, then boys should be able to dress as girl characters. Fine. Except that it then goes on to almost marginalise that statement with the reasoning of "When you wear a costume, the whole point is that you become someone totally different. Otherwise, it makes no sense to dress up in the first place" - which really tones down the message that some boys just *are* princesses on the inside.
I was disappointed that no one stepped up to be Kevin's knight. Not even Chloe. The perfect message to accompany the whole "anyone can be anything" concept would have been for Chloe to change her outfit or swap with another kid, in support of her best friend, and be the knight to hold his hand. Instead, we have Kevin reacting almost with disgust when he nearly falls and Chloe takes his hand. Not the best message to give off.
While it's a good story, it is dismissive of LGBT kids, by saying dressing up is only for fun, to become someone you're not. It comes across as a potentially dismissive, harmful message that could give the wrong idea to kids who really need to hear that it's okay to be who they are ALL the time, but especially to use a moment like a fancy-dress party or event as a time to shine and step out of their comfort zone, to really explore their self-expression.
For me, it's a super cute book for kids to get them *started* on the concept of self-expression and acceptance of LGBT children, but some of the messages undermine how much good it could have done *for* LGBT kids who needed to see themselves in a book. Here, Kevin feels like he's being a princess to be different on purpose, and a rebellion, to stand out. It doesn't feel like Kevin is being a princess because that's *WHO* he really is. And, for me, that's a very important distinction.
On one hand - it's super cute, the illustrations are perfect, bright and fun for kids. It has a cute message and one that will stick with kids.
However, I also feel like it missed the mark in a few places. For one, it says that Kevin can be who he wants to be, that if it's fine for girls to dress as boy characters, then boys should be able to dress as girl characters. Fine. Except that it then goes on to almost marginalise that statement with the reasoning of "When you wear a costume, the whole point is that you become someone totally different. Otherwise, it makes no sense to dress up in the first place" - which really tones down the message that some boys just *are* princesses on the inside.
I was disappointed that no one stepped up to be Kevin's knight. Not even Chloe. The perfect message to accompany the whole "anyone can be anything" concept would have been for Chloe to change her outfit or swap with another kid, in support of her best friend, and be the knight to hold his hand. Instead, we have Kevin reacting almost with disgust when he nearly falls and Chloe takes his hand. Not the best message to give off.
While it's a good story, it is dismissive of LGBT kids, by saying dressing up is only for fun, to become someone you're not. It comes across as a potentially dismissive, harmful message that could give the wrong idea to kids who really need to hear that it's okay to be who they are ALL the time, but especially to use a moment like a fancy-dress party or event as a time to shine and step out of their comfort zone, to really explore their self-expression.
For me, it's a super cute book for kids to get them *started* on the concept of self-expression and acceptance of LGBT children, but some of the messages undermine how much good it could have done *for* LGBT kids who needed to see themselves in a book. Here, Kevin feels like he's being a princess to be different on purpose, and a rebellion, to stand out. It doesn't feel like Kevin is being a princess because that's *WHO* he really is. And, for me, that's a very important distinction.
May 17, 2020
This was a very cute picture book about defying gender norms. I loved that Kevin wanting to wear a dress wasn't linked to him being gay or trans, because it just doesn't matter here: boys can just wear dresses. I do think this could have done a little more in terms of actual acceptance. It was good to see that Kevin just didn't care what his peers thought, and implicitly, of course, his parents were accepting enough. But it would have been nice if there had been more of a twist in terms of the acceptance of his peers, because they seemed to tolerate him and not much more.
January 21, 2020
A delightful book about a boy who wants to be a princess and /cares for what anyone thinks about it.
I read this gorgeous and funny picture book in Dutch but I want to write my review in English as the original is in English.
At Kevin's school there is a play and a whole day of dressing up. Kevin decides that he wants to be a princess and so he borrows a dress, some make-up, and some very high heeled shoes. I loved how supportive everyone in his family was. How his sister helped him out and cheered for him. It is not always that you see this happening so I was delighted.
And then it is time to go to school, I did feel sad that people reacted to Kevin this way. Come on if girls can be knights, cowboys, and the likes, then Kevin should be able to be a princess. Just play along and have fun! We live in 2020 not in 1820.
I had a feeling that Kevin may not be always happy to be a princess. I won't spoil anything, but I can totally attest to the murder that is high-heeled boots. Still I think it was totally super that he tried it out. I had such a big laugh at the last page of this book, oh my Kevin! Go for it!
The art is very adorable and I love the style.
All in all, a very cute and sweet book with an important message. If girls can flip the genders around for costumes than boys can do that as well!
Review first posted at https://twirlingbookprincess.com/
I read this gorgeous and funny picture book in Dutch but I want to write my review in English as the original is in English.
At Kevin's school there is a play and a whole day of dressing up. Kevin decides that he wants to be a princess and so he borrows a dress, some make-up, and some very high heeled shoes. I loved how supportive everyone in his family was. How his sister helped him out and cheered for him. It is not always that you see this happening so I was delighted.
And then it is time to go to school, I did feel sad that people reacted to Kevin this way. Come on if girls can be knights, cowboys, and the likes, then Kevin should be able to be a princess. Just play along and have fun! We live in 2020 not in 1820.
I had a feeling that Kevin may not be always happy to be a princess. I won't spoil anything, but I can totally attest to the murder that is high-heeled boots. Still I think it was totally super that he tried it out. I had such a big laugh at the last page of this book, oh my Kevin! Go for it!
The art is very adorable and I love the style.
All in all, a very cute and sweet book with an important message. If girls can flip the genders around for costumes than boys can do that as well!
Review first posted at https://twirlingbookprincess.com/
January 5, 2021
Veldig søt og morsom bok. Kjempefine illustrasjoner, og superfan av budskapet i boka!
April 11, 2021
Headstrong Princess... Kevin!
This is lovely. Kevin has no qualms about his choice for dressing up day at school - he doesn't want the suggested ones, no. He wants to be a princess, and his mum and sister assist with the heels and jewellery, but he finds his day at school is not as easy as he'd expected.
Kevin shows us the highs and lows of wearing a dress at school - yes, he's being who he is, so he's happy. But he's also a bit tired of the shoes by the end of the day, and some of the other boys won't hold his hand and be the knight to his princess.
The story does show that there can be issues when someone appears different to other people, but Kevin also stays above it, doesn't show weakness or upset, and just gives the impression that he isn't going to change and others are just going to have to accept him.
Kevin also shows kind traits when he says his friend, dressed as a dragon, looks like a sock. Parents and teachers will be able to use his example as a demonstration of tact and kindness to others.
Loved the illustrations, the style of upturned noses, messy hair and expressive faces reflects Kevin really: cheeky and headstrong. The text is fairly sparse but tells the full story of Kevin's day, showing his family support, his feelings and actions, and works as a simple story for younger children or one that can be elaborated for those a little older.
A great text to use for those curious about the issues presented, or to provoke discussion at school or home.
For ages 3-8.
With thanks to Netgalley for providing a sample reading copy.
This is lovely. Kevin has no qualms about his choice for dressing up day at school - he doesn't want the suggested ones, no. He wants to be a princess, and his mum and sister assist with the heels and jewellery, but he finds his day at school is not as easy as he'd expected.
Kevin shows us the highs and lows of wearing a dress at school - yes, he's being who he is, so he's happy. But he's also a bit tired of the shoes by the end of the day, and some of the other boys won't hold his hand and be the knight to his princess.
The story does show that there can be issues when someone appears different to other people, but Kevin also stays above it, doesn't show weakness or upset, and just gives the impression that he isn't going to change and others are just going to have to accept him.
Kevin also shows kind traits when he says his friend, dressed as a dragon, looks like a sock. Parents and teachers will be able to use his example as a demonstration of tact and kindness to others.
Loved the illustrations, the style of upturned noses, messy hair and expressive faces reflects Kevin really: cheeky and headstrong. The text is fairly sparse but tells the full story of Kevin's day, showing his family support, his feelings and actions, and works as a simple story for younger children or one that can be elaborated for those a little older.
A great text to use for those curious about the issues presented, or to provoke discussion at school or home.
For ages 3-8.
With thanks to Netgalley for providing a sample reading copy.
June 10, 2023
I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. Thank you NetGalley,
This book was absolutely adorable. I love that there are now even more children's norms covering the topic of "gender norms" and idea we do NOT need that for our children.
This is a GREAT book to read with your kiddos!
This book was absolutely adorable. I love that there are now even more children's norms covering the topic of "gender norms" and idea we do NOT need that for our children.
This is a GREAT book to read with your kiddos!
March 28, 2021
Review to be added to Amazon UK and US on 6th April 2021 – publication day!
I really enjoyed this book and thought that the story was brilliant!
I loved that it was all about being who you want to be irrespective of what others think but it did make me smile when smile when it got to the end.
It was well written and had some fantastic illustrations
I read it with my daughter and she loved it!
It is 5 stars from me for this one – very highly recommended!!
I really enjoyed this book and thought that the story was brilliant!
I loved that it was all about being who you want to be irrespective of what others think but it did make me smile when smile when it got to the end.
It was well written and had some fantastic illustrations
I read it with my daughter and she loved it!
It is 5 stars from me for this one – very highly recommended!!
February 23, 2020
Princess Kevin is a super cute, funny tale about a boy doesn't care for "gender" limits in his dress-up play. It's costume day at school, and Kevin dresses up as a princess with some clothes and makeup borrowed from his sister and mom. However, he discovers that being a princess isn't easy when the knights don't want to play with you, your dress is too long, and you have to walk in high heels. But Kevin won't let a few setbacks deter him from dressing up the way he wants to!
I love how simple and not pretentious this story is-- so what if Kevin wants to wear a dress and pretend to be a princess? It's a costume! Stories about LGBTQ+ kids are crucial, but books like this that simply and effectively challenge gender roles are just as important. Boys can wear dresses and it doesn't have to signify anything about their gender or sexuality. I can see how some readers might perceive the line, "When you wear a costume, the whole point is that you become someone totally different. Otherwise, it makes no sense to dress up in the first place," to be dismissive of LGBTQ+ experiences. I don't interpret it that way, though; while costumes/dress-up can be important avenues of gender expression and exploration, they can also just be fun! Kevin is not dressing up as a girl, he's dressing up as a princess, and there's no salient reason why he shouldn't be able to do so without it having some deeper meaning about his identity.
This review turned into a bit of an essay, but what I mean to say is that I think this story is a fun read and also an important one!
All quotes come from an advance copy and may not match the final release. Thank you so much to the publisher for providing me with this eARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review!
I love how simple and not pretentious this story is-- so what if Kevin wants to wear a dress and pretend to be a princess? It's a costume! Stories about LGBTQ+ kids are crucial, but books like this that simply and effectively challenge gender roles are just as important. Boys can wear dresses and it doesn't have to signify anything about their gender or sexuality. I can see how some readers might perceive the line, "When you wear a costume, the whole point is that you become someone totally different. Otherwise, it makes no sense to dress up in the first place," to be dismissive of LGBTQ+ experiences. I don't interpret it that way, though; while costumes/dress-up can be important avenues of gender expression and exploration, they can also just be fun! Kevin is not dressing up as a girl, he's dressing up as a princess, and there's no salient reason why he shouldn't be able to do so without it having some deeper meaning about his identity.
This review turned into a bit of an essay, but what I mean to say is that I think this story is a fun read and also an important one!
All quotes come from an advance copy and may not match the final release. Thank you so much to the publisher for providing me with this eARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review!
February 2, 2020
🇬🇧/ 🇫🇷
🇬🇧
Princess Kevin is a sweet children's book about a little kid who has fabulous plans for costume day. Kevin is a princess, utterly and absolutely, complete with a pink dress, high heels, makeup, and of course a crown. It's not so easy to be a princess, but Kevin is determined to make it work!
When I saw this book at a French bookfair, I knew that it was exactly the kind of book I wanted to get for my nephew – he's a high heels, pigtails, and fairy wings kind of a kid, and at 6, I can already see some of the luster fading away as he becomes aware of the expectations around him.
What I love about Princess Kevin is how sweet and understated it is as Kevin navigates costume day. The story is not about Kevin's gender or romantic orientation, it's about friendships, costumes, and high heeled mishaps.
For kids who may be queer or trans, there's a lot to connect to; But the book it also disavows gender norms; Kevin is pronouned as he/him, and there's no indication that this is an ill fit.
Kevin –he– is a princess. It's really simple and straightforward.
I had the pleasure of attending a signing in Paris for the original French edition of the book. The illustrated signed with a really sweet detailed drawing along with a note to my nephew.
I'm really excited to see this coming to English language readers as well, and I love the translation. It's a great book in any language!
🇫🇷
Un douce livre illustré, sur un enfant avec des plans fabuleux pour le jour des costumes a son école. Kevin est une princesse. C'est très simple: il a une robe rose, des talons hauts, et carrément une couronne.
L'histoire ne se traite pas l'identité de genre ou de sexualité, néanmoins c'explore les limitations des expectations commun de notre société.
J'ai eu la chance de rencontrer l'illustrateur de Princesse Kevin, et je l'aimait beaucoup – cet livre semble trop special et important a des enfants qui sont a face des limitations sociaux.
Je suis très heureux que ce livre a était traduit a l'anglais!
🇬🇧
Princess Kevin is a sweet children's book about a little kid who has fabulous plans for costume day. Kevin is a princess, utterly and absolutely, complete with a pink dress, high heels, makeup, and of course a crown. It's not so easy to be a princess, but Kevin is determined to make it work!
When I saw this book at a French bookfair, I knew that it was exactly the kind of book I wanted to get for my nephew – he's a high heels, pigtails, and fairy wings kind of a kid, and at 6, I can already see some of the luster fading away as he becomes aware of the expectations around him.
What I love about Princess Kevin is how sweet and understated it is as Kevin navigates costume day. The story is not about Kevin's gender or romantic orientation, it's about friendships, costumes, and high heeled mishaps.
For kids who may be queer or trans, there's a lot to connect to; But the book it also disavows gender norms; Kevin is pronouned as he/him, and there's no indication that this is an ill fit.
Kevin –he– is a princess. It's really simple and straightforward.
I had the pleasure of attending a signing in Paris for the original French edition of the book. The illustrated signed with a really sweet detailed drawing along with a note to my nephew.
I'm really excited to see this coming to English language readers as well, and I love the translation. It's a great book in any language!
🇫🇷
Un douce livre illustré, sur un enfant avec des plans fabuleux pour le jour des costumes a son école. Kevin est une princesse. C'est très simple: il a une robe rose, des talons hauts, et carrément une couronne.
L'histoire ne se traite pas l'identité de genre ou de sexualité, néanmoins c'explore les limitations des expectations commun de notre société.
J'ai eu la chance de rencontrer l'illustrateur de Princesse Kevin, et je l'aimait beaucoup – cet livre semble trop special et important a des enfants qui sont a face des limitations sociaux.
Je suis très heureux que ce livre a était traduit a l'anglais!
April 3, 2020
I was provided a free copy of this book through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This picture book was pretty fun. It tells the story of the costume day at Kevin's school which he wants to attend as a princess this year. It's not - as I assumed - a story about a trans or gay boy, but a story that challenges the gender norms of society, which I just loved. Because why shouldn't a boy decide to dress as a princess? Kevin is absolutely right.
It's a funny book about a boy who is just himself. I also love that it's not glorifying the situation, the other kids do react as kids probably would in a situation like that (even though maybe a bit nicer). Kevin on the other hand isn't a poster boy either, making a bit fun of the costume of a friend. It comes all pretty natural, but I just wasn't such a fan of the writing style. For me it felt a bit halting and I still feel like it could have made more of a point.
And even if it made Kevin seem like just a kid, I didn't really like him making fun of his friends costume. Even if it makes him more real, it still gives a message that I'm not a big fan of.
Other than that the ending of the book made me laugh out loud and if it would have been a bit more about gentle acceptance I'd have made all the kids in my life read this book.
This picture book was pretty fun. It tells the story of the costume day at Kevin's school which he wants to attend as a princess this year. It's not - as I assumed - a story about a trans or gay boy, but a story that challenges the gender norms of society, which I just loved. Because why shouldn't a boy decide to dress as a princess? Kevin is absolutely right.
It's a funny book about a boy who is just himself. I also love that it's not glorifying the situation, the other kids do react as kids probably would in a situation like that (even though maybe a bit nicer). Kevin on the other hand isn't a poster boy either, making a bit fun of the costume of a friend. It comes all pretty natural, but I just wasn't such a fan of the writing style. For me it felt a bit halting and I still feel like it could have made more of a point.
And even if it made Kevin seem like just a kid, I didn't really like him making fun of his friends costume. Even if it makes him more real, it still gives a message that I'm not a big fan of.
Other than that the ending of the book made me laugh out loud and if it would have been a bit more about gentle acceptance I'd have made all the kids in my life read this book.
February 10, 2020
I love that we now have a variety of books that address gender expression. While this was not my favorite, I appreciate that it exists so that children like Kevin may see themselves reflected in its pages.
February 10, 2020
*received a copy for free from netgalley for honest review* I LOVE this book! super cute drawings, love the idea and story and really love that they say "mermaid". would love to own for sure!
February 22, 2025
"Princesse Kevin" est l'un de ces albums que j'ai lu il y a déjà six ans, alors que je débutais dans le métier de libraire jeunesse. Il est resté sur les rayons de toutes les librairies où je suis passée pour y travailler et il y est encore à ce jour. Il est inscrit dans ces albums incontournables pour traiter les contre-stéréotypes de genres.
Kevin veut se déguiser en princesse pour Halloween, mais il va se rendre compte qu'être une princesse, c'est un paquet de trouble! Des chaussures à talons qui torturent les talons, des paillettes qui grattent, une fermeture éclaire contraignante, vraiment, mais quelle idée! L'an prochain, c'est décidé, il se déguisera en...sirène!
Comique, quand même réaliste ( vraiment, des talons haut, quelle outil de torture!) c'est surtout un pied de nez fort bienvenue aux imbéciles du marketing qui ont créer de toute pièce les stéréotypes genrés ( Pour plus d'info sur la création des couleurs de genre, voir la sympathique et ludique BD "Consommation: Le guide de l'anti-manipulation"). On dédramatise aussi le fait que les enfants choisissent leur costume pour le simple plaisir d'être "autre chose", et non pour manifester une orientation ( le grand argument des gens qui trouvent ces albums "de mauvaise influence"). Halloween, c'est le seul jour de l'année où les enfants peuvent enfiler l'habit de leur choix et être ce qu'ils/elles veulent, laissons-leur ce plaisir.
Je salue donc encore le travail toujours très inspirant et amusant de Michaël Escoffier , qu'on ne présente plus et le crayon pétillant de Roland Garrigue, qui nous a livré des personnages colorés dans tous les sens du terme.
Pour un lectorat préscolaire, 4-5 ans+
Catégorisation: Album fiction français, littérature jeunesse préscolaire, 4-5 ans+
Note: 8/10
Kevin veut se déguiser en princesse pour Halloween, mais il va se rendre compte qu'être une princesse, c'est un paquet de trouble! Des chaussures à talons qui torturent les talons, des paillettes qui grattent, une fermeture éclaire contraignante, vraiment, mais quelle idée! L'an prochain, c'est décidé, il se déguisera en...sirène!
Comique, quand même réaliste ( vraiment, des talons haut, quelle outil de torture!) c'est surtout un pied de nez fort bienvenue aux imbéciles du marketing qui ont créer de toute pièce les stéréotypes genrés ( Pour plus d'info sur la création des couleurs de genre, voir la sympathique et ludique BD "Consommation: Le guide de l'anti-manipulation"). On dédramatise aussi le fait que les enfants choisissent leur costume pour le simple plaisir d'être "autre chose", et non pour manifester une orientation ( le grand argument des gens qui trouvent ces albums "de mauvaise influence"). Halloween, c'est le seul jour de l'année où les enfants peuvent enfiler l'habit de leur choix et être ce qu'ils/elles veulent, laissons-leur ce plaisir.
Je salue donc encore le travail toujours très inspirant et amusant de Michaël Escoffier , qu'on ne présente plus et le crayon pétillant de Roland Garrigue, qui nous a livré des personnages colorés dans tous les sens du terme.
Pour un lectorat préscolaire, 4-5 ans+
Catégorisation: Album fiction français, littérature jeunesse préscolaire, 4-5 ans+
Note: 8/10
January 15, 2020
Kevin laat in zijn prinsessenjurk zien dat iedereen mag zijn wie hij is. Of je nu een drakenpak aan hebt als meisje of een prinsessenjurk als jongen. Goed thema.
Na alle positieve verhalen en promotie van dit boek was ik nieuwsgierig, maar na het lezen van dit prentenboek vond ik het toch een beetje tegenvallen. Naar mijn idee was het verhaal erg snel afgelopen en ook nog niet helemaal af. Neemt niet weg dat het een goed thema blijft en goed bespreekbaar is in klassen. Overigens vind ik de illustraties van Roland Garrigue heel passend!
Na alle positieve verhalen en promotie van dit boek was ik nieuwsgierig, maar na het lezen van dit prentenboek vond ik het toch een beetje tegenvallen. Naar mijn idee was het verhaal erg snel afgelopen en ook nog niet helemaal af. Neemt niet weg dat het een goed thema blijft en goed bespreekbaar is in klassen. Overigens vind ik de illustraties van Roland Garrigue heel passend!
April 2, 2020
A very adorable kid's picture book that explores the concept of gender expression in a way kids will understand. It teaches boys that they can dress like be a princess too even if other may not understand. The art was not complete to my personal taste but is still is a very cute book.
* This book was provided as a free download from Edelweiss in exchange for a honest review.
* This book was provided as a free download from Edelweiss in exchange for a honest review.
May 26, 2020
Lovely, funny and validating for kids, and eye-opening for adults, I think.
May 11, 2020
*I received this book as an eARC from Frances Lincoln Children's Books/Quarto Group via Edelweiss. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*
Kevin is getting dressed for a costume party. He decides to go as a princess. Since he dressed in a way many people wouldn't expect, he faces some challenges. None of the kids dressed up as knights want to hold his hand.
The artwork is excellent in this picture book. Every costume is adorable. At the end there is a little bit of an unusual message when Kevin comes to the conclusion that being a princess was too difficult, but he wants to be a mermaid next time.
I give this book a 4.5/5. It's great to see a book that showcases non-traditional gender roles even if they are just kids playing dress-up.
Kevin is getting dressed for a costume party. He decides to go as a princess. Since he dressed in a way many people wouldn't expect, he faces some challenges. None of the kids dressed up as knights want to hold his hand.
The artwork is excellent in this picture book. Every costume is adorable. At the end there is a little bit of an unusual message when Kevin comes to the conclusion that being a princess was too difficult, but he wants to be a mermaid next time.
I give this book a 4.5/5. It's great to see a book that showcases non-traditional gender roles even if they are just kids playing dress-up.
May 17, 2020
Leuk boek over een jongetje dat zich verkleed als prinses. Mooie gespreksstarter, maar niet echt een interessante verhaallijn.
May 4, 2020
Mijn jongste dochter van 5 kwam niet meer bij van het lachen wanneer ze naar prinses Kevin keek. Of nu de boodschap helemaal doorgedrongen is dat kan ik niet met zekerheid zeggen. Maar misschien wel eens een interessant onderwerp om aan te snijden... waarom zouden jongens eens geen hoge hakken mogen dragen?
April 25, 2020
Prinses Kevin
Er is een verkleedfeest op school. En Kevin is een prinses, punt uit. Niet iedereen is het daar mee eens, maar sommigen wel. En Kevin, is die aan het eind van de dag nog blij als prinses….
Dit kleuterboek gaat volgens het label van de bibliotheek over "anders zijn". Zo'n gemiste kans, want juist over die labels gaat het. Waarom kan een jongen geen prinses zijn, of een meisje een cowboy of ridder. Het gaat juist over jezelf zijn. Ook al lachen anderen erom. Het gaat over zelf kiezen voor die dingen die jij leuk vindt. Mijn zevenjarige snapt dit, want ze is dan wel een meisje, maar ze houdt niet van roze of poppen. Zij kiest blauw, bouwen en auto's.
Ze vond het een leuk en grappig boek. Vooral omdat Kevin aan het eind een verrassend besluit neemt.
Ik vond het een mooi boek over jezelf zijn, ongeacht wat anderen vinden.
Er is een verkleedfeest op school. En Kevin is een prinses, punt uit. Niet iedereen is het daar mee eens, maar sommigen wel. En Kevin, is die aan het eind van de dag nog blij als prinses….
Dit kleuterboek gaat volgens het label van de bibliotheek over "anders zijn". Zo'n gemiste kans, want juist over die labels gaat het. Waarom kan een jongen geen prinses zijn, of een meisje een cowboy of ridder. Het gaat juist over jezelf zijn. Ook al lachen anderen erom. Het gaat over zelf kiezen voor die dingen die jij leuk vindt. Mijn zevenjarige snapt dit, want ze is dan wel een meisje, maar ze houdt niet van roze of poppen. Zij kiest blauw, bouwen en auto's.
Ze vond het een leuk en grappig boek. Vooral omdat Kevin aan het eind een verrassend besluit neemt.
Ik vond het een mooi boek over jezelf zijn, ongeacht wat anderen vinden.
March 19, 2020
*I received a copy of Princess Kevin via Netgalley*
Princess Kevin by Michaël Escoffier, illustrated by Roland Garrigue, is a picture book centering around Costume Day at Kevin's school.
Kevin is a self-confident kid, and he knows exactly what he wants to dress up as: a princess. The problem is his costume needs a knight to be complete. And none of the knights want to hold his hand. Not to be deterred, Kevin teams up with a dragon to make the most of Costume Day.
Along the way, he finds some problems with his costume - the dress is too long and it's hard to walk in heels - so he decides next year he'll be something easier... a mermaid!
I really liked the illustrations, with their vibrant colors and the great detail in the character's expressions, and the text is straightforward and good for a read-aloud. There was one line I had some mixed feelings about, though: "When you wear a costume, the whole point is that you become someone totally different. Otherwise, it makes no sense to dress up in the first place". I hesitated over that because it implies that Kevin is not gender nonconforming or gender creative or usually inclined towards wearing dresses just because he likes them; rather, he is dressing up as a princess not because he likes princesses, but because it's totally different; Kevin can wear a dress because it's a costume, because boys should only wear dresses as costumes.
I might be overthinking it, but to be perfectly honest that bit is what kept me from giving this 5 stars. Nevertheless, I did like this a lot and particularly liked the illustration style. And of course, if you're doing a read aloud, it's easy just to skip that line; it's even presented as a parenthetical aside in the text.
Princess Kevin by Michaël Escoffier, illustrated by Roland Garrigue, is a picture book centering around Costume Day at Kevin's school.
Kevin is a self-confident kid, and he knows exactly what he wants to dress up as: a princess. The problem is his costume needs a knight to be complete. And none of the knights want to hold his hand. Not to be deterred, Kevin teams up with a dragon to make the most of Costume Day.
Along the way, he finds some problems with his costume - the dress is too long and it's hard to walk in heels - so he decides next year he'll be something easier... a mermaid!
I really liked the illustrations, with their vibrant colors and the great detail in the character's expressions, and the text is straightforward and good for a read-aloud. There was one line I had some mixed feelings about, though: "When you wear a costume, the whole point is that you become someone totally different. Otherwise, it makes no sense to dress up in the first place". I hesitated over that because it implies that Kevin is not gender nonconforming or gender creative or usually inclined towards wearing dresses just because he likes them; rather, he is dressing up as a princess not because he likes princesses, but because it's totally different; Kevin can wear a dress because it's a costume, because boys should only wear dresses as costumes.
I might be overthinking it, but to be perfectly honest that bit is what kept me from giving this 5 stars. Nevertheless, I did like this a lot and particularly liked the illustration style. And of course, if you're doing a read aloud, it's easy just to skip that line; it's even presented as a parenthetical aside in the text.
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