The Red Prince

Through simple text and dramatic illustrations, this picture book from the illustrator of Wall (2014) tells a story about the power of community...Two-page spreads are interspersed with panels and single-page illustrations, adding a rhythm to the escape and chase.

Game of Thrones this is not: debut author Roscoe and illustrator Cole (Wall) set this adventure in a modernish monarchy, and no one meets a gory end. But their story of a young prince defying an invading force while dressed in red pajamas certainly strives to tap into the high-stakes drama and chiaroscuro imagery of high fantasy. The invaders arrive as an eerie black-sail flotilla in the dead of a snowy night (one of Cole's many bravura nocturnal images) after the unsuspecting inhabitants have "shut their doors and lit their fires." Left alone by his parents, the Red Prince is captured and thrown into a dungeon, but he escapes with the help of his faithful dog, and a chase ensues across a frozen landscape. The people of Avala cleverly and sartorially rally to his cause, a turn of events that borrows a little from the classic "I am Spartacus" scene and a little from Where's Waldo? Roscoe and Cole never let things get too dark or dire for the young prince, but the cinematic imagery and breathless escapes should keep the target audience rapt. Ages 2-5. (Oct.)

Copyright 2016 Publishers Weekly, LLC Used with permission.

K-Gr 3--In the absence of a boy's royal parents, strangers have invaded the island kingdom of Avala and imprisoned the young prince. Shortly after this disheartening start, the boy and his dog manage to escape. As the prince makes his way to the capital, his distinctive red pajamas draw the attention of his pursuers. Fortunately, the people are willing to help, and in their final act of defiance, the nation unites to save its beloved royal; the predominant blues get swept away by a sea of red. At all times, the illustrator's digital coloring is dazzling and evocative, establishing a tone of tension and courage. Even the background color of the text boxes reflects this by changing to tonal hues. As a whole, the visuals have a cinematic quality; shots are nicely framed and showcase a variety of perspectives to pull readers in. While the narration only summarizes events, some sequential images do flesh out the details. Older readers will find it difficult to believe that a horde of unarmed people could possibly drive an armed force away so peaceably. However, those who accept the fairy tale-like setting will have no problem seeing the charm of this optimistic tale. VERDICT A visually stunning work about a brave young boy and a people who come together to defend him. Sure to satisfy fans of fairy tales.--Rachel Forbes, formerly at Oakville Public Library, Ont., Canada

Copyright 2016 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

Viewers who enjoyed poring over the intricate artwork in Jones' Beauty and the Beast (BCCB 3/14), though, may appreciate this folk-like tale.
—Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books