This graphic novel was beautifully drawn and had an amazing story to match. I am SO here for teen and young adult books that feature characters from different backgrounds and different lifestyles.  What I liked about this book was the level of acceptance that was shown to the Prince and the message that everyone is unique and that’s ok.  The author, Jen Wang, does a great job of sending a message without being preachy.

Frances is a dress maker with dreams of designing gowns for kings and queens.  When one of her dresses catches the eye of a wealthy member of court, she is hired by the mysterious person.  The admirer turns out to be Prince Sebastian himself, who has been hiding his love of dressing as a woman from everyone, especially his mother and father who are urging him to find someone to marry.   Frances and Lady Crystallia (as Sebastian calls himself when dressed as a woman) spend their nights among society and having adventures.  But how long can the fun last before someone discovers who Lady Crystallia really is?   At its heart, this is a story about being true to yourself and enjoying life.

I really, really enjoyed this book.  It was light-hearted but still poignant and the characters were very likable.  I was sad when it ended because I wanted more of Frances and Sebastian so I am hoping Wang decides to continue their story and gifts us with a sequel. I would recommend this to kids and adults alike because its lesson is needed now more than ever.

Author:  Jen Wang

Published: 2018

Rating: 5 Stars