Ever After High: Truth or Hair is the fifth book in Suzanne Selfors' series, set in the popular Ever After High universe where the children of fairy tale characters attend a magical boarding school. This installment focuses on the O'Hair twins, Holly and Poppy, daughters of Rapunzel. Holly is expected to inherit the long locks and destiny of Rapunzel, while Poppy, who prefers a short, individual style, has secretly taken on a different path. The central conflict arises when their hair mysteriously begins to switch lengths, threatening to expose their carefully guarded secret about who is truly destined for what. This creates a delightful, low-stakes tension that is perfect for its target audience.
The book handles sensitive topics like identity, self-determination, and family expectations through the engaging metaphor of fairy tale destinies. The 'Rebels' versus 'Royals' dynamic of the broader series, where students either embrace or reject their inherited stories, provides a rich backdrop for Holly and Poppy's personal struggle. The emotional arc is one of gentle suspense, moving from a predicament to a hopeful resolution where the sisters must confront their fears and decide what truly makes them happy, rather than what is expected of them. It's an uplifting story about finding your own path.
This book is specifically for children who love fairy tales with a modern twist, magical school settings, and stories about friendship and individuality. A parent might reach for this when their child is exploring themes of identity, feeling pressure to conform, or simply enjoys a fun, character-driven fantasy. There are no significant content advisories; parents might want to discuss the concept of destiny versus choice, and the importance of honesty. Younger readers (4-7) will be enchanted by the magical world and the charming characters, while older readers (8-11) will connect more deeply with the themes of self-discovery and navigating expectations. What sets this book apart from other fairy tale retellings is its unique premise of the children of famous characters actively choosing or rejecting their pre-written destinies, offering a fresh, empowering perspective on classic tales.
