Beth Anderson, Children's Writer

Anyone have some sibling rivalry going on? Ever felt a little jealous of a brother or sister? Check out this week’s hilarious Perfect Picture Book Friday selection. 

Title: His Royal Highness, King Baby, A Terrible True Story
Written by: Sally Lloyd-Jones
Illustrated by: David Roberts
Candlewick Press, 2017, 48 pp
Suitable for ages: 4-8

Themes/topics: siblings, babies, jealousy

Opening:
Once upon a time, there was a happy family: a mom, a dad, a gerbil, and the most beautifulest, cleverest, ever-so-kindest Princess with long, flowing wondrous hair.
(In fact, actually, she is ME!)

Overview:
On one horrible day, a new ruler is born into a young princess’s family — a ruler she dubs His Royal Highness, King Baby. This small interloper is so smelly. He is so noisy. And all the talk in the Land is about him (“Such a nice burp!” “Oh, what a lovely poo-poo!”), nonstop, ALL THE TIME! Has there ever been such an era of wicked rule? With whimsy and sympathy, Sally Lloyd-Jones tells a satisfying tale of usurped attention — and rapprochement — that every big brother or sister will relate to, while illustrator David Roberts captures all the hilarious details of a child’s active imagination.

Activities and Resources:

• Consider your place in the family. What are the pros and cons of being younger or older, sister or brother?
• Choose your favorite illustration. What details make it special? Draw your own family picture. Add some details that show the personality of your characters.
• Grammar: Superlatives

Why I like this book:
It’s just so fun! Who hasn’t felt this way at the arrival of someone who pulls all the attention in their direction? The illustrations are so spot on….(ok, tell the truth, who among us girls has not at one time put their tights on their head to simulate long flowing hair?) …so emotive, so entertaining. The language is also playful, the voice so dramatic. Text graphics, page layout, everything about this book makes it thoroughly enjoyable!

Visit author Susanna Hill’s Perfect Picture Books for a plethora of picture books listed by title and topic/theme, each with teacher/parent activities and resources.