Unquestionably adorable and supremely silly.
The most exciting day of the year has finally arrived for Princess Periwinkle. Today she will help her father choose a winner for the Cucumber Kingdom’s Pickle of the Year contest. Glassy-eyed citizens from near and far bring their very best pickles to the king. Pickle-loving Periwinkle is delighted to taste all the pickles and help judge the contest. Upon opening a new jar, the princess hears an unexpected voice. “My name is Peter Pickle. I would like to try out for Pickle of the Year!” Unwilling to taste a talking pickle, Periwinkle has to evaluate Peter based on different criteria. He demonstrates many of his talents, from singing to doing handstands. He may be small in stature, but Peter Pickle shows Periwinkle that he still has a lot to offer. Before choosing a winner, the princess thinks about the kind of kingdom she wants to live in and decides that all sorts of pickles, from the biggest to the smallest, get a place in the contest.
Wrapped in a fun, pickley package, the unquestionably adorable and supremely silly Periwinkle Picks the Pickle by Lauren Harrell provides a beautiful lesson for children. As Periwinkle embraces Peter’s unexpected talents, such as baking a cake or making her laugh, she realizes that every pickle has value, even if they are small and sour! The benevolent message is clear, but not heavy handed, carried merrily forward with pleasing alliteration. Lovely opportunities for conversation and exploration abound as the eager princess tries out new things with Peter. The artwork is simple, yet refined, taking the story to fun new places. A favorite image of mine shows the princess trying out a graceful ballet pose on tiny little pointe shoes. It’s impossible not to be charmed by Periwinkle as joy and eagerness radiate from her expressive face. If you want to share a positive message with young readers in a way that is sure to draw a smile (or if your children just really love pickles!), Periwinkle Picks the Pickle is a delightful book that kids will ask for by name.
