Reviews

Lillybelle, A Damsel Not in Distress by Jhon Ortiz, Joana Pastro

angkunkel's review against another edition

5.0

When my daughter was younger and deep in her princess phase, I actively sought out stories that would challenge or subvert the passive, damsel-in-distress narrative. Boy do I wish LILLYBELLE had been around then! Not only is Lillybelle in charge of her own fate, but Joana Pastro tells an empowered tale with humor and heart rather than didacticism. Jhon Ortiz's illustrations feature an incredible color palette and a range of marvelous monsters. Highly recommended.

candywellins's review against another edition

5.0

Im a sucker for a good #girlpower #picturebook and LillyBelle: A Damsel Not in Distress by #debutauthor @joanapastro is such a book. Similar to the Paper Bag Princess, this book triumphs because it reminds us that females are perfectly capable of taking care of themselves and saving the day. The special twist in this story is that LillyBelle doesn’t do it with physical strength or brute force, but with life skills and impeccable manners. I highly recommend this one for any young reader.

erine's review against another edition

3.0

We are on a “too-da-loo” kick in our house, so I brought this home because that phrase is prominently featured.

Otherwise, this book is exactly what it says it is. LillyBelle is a damsel, a baking, singing, well-mannered damsel, but she refuses to wait for rescue. And in the meantime she makes friends with monsters. The point is a little over-emphasized, and I’m not sure why the ogre was gift-wrapping her, but in the main this was a serviceable read aloud for my newly-five-year-old.

asiqueira1307's review against another edition

5.0

I love this book. Lillybelle is a decided Damsel and she knows how to rescue herself. Even though she loves all Damsel's skills, she uses her skills to get out of trouble and make some friends along the way. Girl Power all the way. Get this book for your girls and boys so they all learn Girls are Strong!