The Prince and the Dressmaker

Review from School Library Connection Star:

This uplifting graphic novel has the high-quality look of a classic Disney fairy tale but with modern dialogue and issues. Belgian prince Sebastian makes news when he visits family in Paris, but he doesn't feel quite like himself until he hires talented seamstress Frances to secretly make him some beautiful dresses. She is shocked at first, but working for a prince could help her fulfill her dream of being a famous designer. She accepts and helps him create an alter-ego called Lady Crystallia. Themes of identity and self-discovery make this coming-of-age story relatable for all readers. In Frances' whimsical designs, Sebastian (as Crystallia) becomes a fashion icon in Paris. They become close friends, but Frances eventually realizes that she can't get the recognition she deserves if she stays with Sebastian. They both despair at losing one another, and when Crystallia's identity is accidentally discovered, Frances is the one who convinces the king that Sebastian is perfect the way he is. Learning to accept others' differences is a subtle but important lesson for young readers. The full-color illustrations showcase the fashions and settings as well as move the story along quickly. For aspiring authors/illustrators, Jen Wang includes a brief, informative section called "My Process" at the end to show how she developed the story from script form to finished product.