Just So Stories

Hardie Grant Australia

October 2023

ISBN: 9781743798416

RRP: $42. 00

Last year I concluded Picture Book Month with Megan Hess’ gorgeous illustrated bio of the divine Audrey Hepburn, and how lucky am I to be able to showcase this year’s equally stunning title in this series (grateful thanks to Hardie Grant Australia).

Grace by name and by nature. I don’t think anyone would deny that Princess Grace epitomised elegance, style and charm. Her life story from a traditional Catholic upbringing to early ventures in modelling and acting, to Hollywood stardom, and walking away from all that entailed to marry Prince Rainier of Monaco, is the very stuff of fairytales. It completely captured the world audience of the time but continues to fascinate to this day.

When she took upon herself the role of Princess Consort of the tiny principality of Monaco, playground of the rich and famous, she did so wholeheartedly, winning over both the populace and her plethora of fans around the world.

Megan Hess once again brings to life the essential story of a fashion icon who was, in every sense a Serene Highness, with salient facts about Kelly’s life and career, and her highly regarded devotion to her family and to the people of Monaco.

Like the others in this series, this is a jewel of a book, with the gilt-edged pages and exquisite binding. Each page with Hess’ distinctive fashion illustrations is a treasure in itself, and whether a fan of movie history or fashion, it will not fail to delight any reader.

Xmas is only days away and what a gift this would make for any one, young or old. I bought several of the fashion titles for my libraries where they were very much appreciated by the students of Textiles/Design. I would also strongly suggest you check out Megan Hess’ other titles, both fashion and her stories for children, especially Claris.

Highly recommended for readers from around 10 upwards, and devotees of movies or fashion in particular.

“I would like to be remembered as someone who accomplished useful deeds, and who was a kind and loving person. I would like to leave the memory of a human being with a correct attitude and who did her best to help others.”

— Princess Grace