Just So Stories

Penguin Australia

• ISBN: 9781761340468
• Imprint: Puffin
• RRP: $14.99

Princess Tillie and Honeyblossom are back in another exciting mystery/adventure, this time with a very large, very pink and very grumpy dragon with which to deal. Yet again, there is trouble in the Queendom when suddenly all the water begins to dry up – wells, fountains, animal troughs, the castle moat, all have dried up because the River Floss has stopped flowing. King Edwin’s new experiment of never-ending water doesn’t promise to be a good solution either.

Although she’s really supposed to be staying in the castle, of course Princess Tillie needs to investigate so she slips out via the secret tunnel and heads straight for her friend Lukas’ farm. Together with Honeyblossom, the pair discover that the river has been blocked because a huge fire dragon has dammed it up. Now how on earth can that problem be solved?

Back at the castle and in trouble again from cranky Mr Grimm the steward, PT does some research on fire dragons and discovers their fondness for riddles. When the pink dragon comes swooping over the town and threatens Prince Oskar and others, Tillie leaps into action.

Bravely, she faces down Zelda the dragon and beats her in a riddle battle, and, of course, helps the dragon who really only wanted to bathe in the river’s water because of her injury.

Princess Tillie is clever and courageous but she also knows the value of kindness and compassion. And, while she may bend the rules a little, she is not wilful nor defiant. She knows that sometimes, one has to go with one’s own instinct for what is right.

This is a great little series for those kiddos who are ready for lengthier junior chapter books with some wholesome themes throughout. There will be plenty already hooked on these adventures and looking forward to more.

Recommended for your Smalls from around 6 or 7 upwards, especially those who love a bit of sparkiness in their heroes.