Olivia and the Fairy Princesses

Falconer, I., & Falconer, I. (2012). Olivia and the Fairy Princesses. New York, NY: Atheneum Books for Young Readers.

Lexile Score: AD630L

Summary: Olivia is a pig who is currently having an “identity crisis.” She doesn’t want to be a pink fairy princess like the rest of the kids because she wants to be unique. She decides to explore other things that she could possibly be. Her goal is to be a special individual.

Evaluation: This story would make a great read aloud because it shows the importance of being yourself. The illustrations are beautifully depicted and thought out. Even males are mentioned in the ballet part, which means both genders are mentioned equally and not stereotypically. Even though everyone in her class dresses up as a pink ballerina, Olivia choses to be different.

She tries on many different costumes to show her individuality and to show that she doesn’t care what the other kids think of her. It’s a great theme for young children and a wonderful lesson to be learned throughout. This story shows how Olivia wants to do more than just fit in; she wants to stand out.

This text with these wonderful illustrations could make for excellent conversations and topics of discussion. There is a conflict to be resolved and that is how Olivia is going to become that unique individual that she wants to be. This can be thought out as a class, questioned, and considered. The characters really don’t show a variety because they are all pigs, and children love talking pigs!

Literary Elements: Theme- the lesson of being yourself and not worrying about what others think of you is important to learn as a child.

Illustrations- All children love looking at pigs dressed up as fairy princess, sailors, and a warthog. It brings humor to the story.

Tone- The tone is humorous even though some children wouldn’t agree at first because Olivia is depressed about her identity. She comes to terms with herself at the end and will make everybody laugh.

Mini Lesson: I would have a mini lesson titled “You.” I would have each student make a poster describing themselves, what they want to be when they grow up and other big dreams. Then, have them use illustrations to help with their description. I would explain to the students and show them at the end that everybody is different and unique in their own way.

Target Audience: Pre K- 3^rd grade because they will find the illustrations hilarious and will learn that they are special in their own ways at a young age.