Penny and Penelope

PreS-Gr 2–Two girls begin a playdate by introducing their own versions of their dolls to one another. One is a princess wearing a gown and glass slippers while the other is a leather-clad secret agent. While Princess Penelope wants to have tea and wave to loyal subjects, Penny the secret agent jumps into action, saving the loyal subjects from a crocodile, and taking Princess Penelope on an adventurous escape from a werewolf. This seemingly simple story is far deeper than young children playing make-believe. The story is told through a close-up of the interaction between the two dolls, teaching readers valuable lessons about individuals having unique skills and championing differences. The watercolor illustrations are light and playful, offering a softer setting for a whirlwind story. While there are no speech bubbles or direct text indicating who is speaking, which is a little confusing at first. The dolls’ narration is printed in different colors and font to distinguish between the two. Further, the dolls develop distinct voices through the story, making it a little easier for readers. Princess Penelope creates a trap as she is resourceful, and Penny knows how to tie knots, breaking down perceptions and misconceptions of traditional gender roles.