The Frowning Prince

Reach for this book when your child is currently finding power in being difficult, particularly if they have adopted a grumpy face as a badge of honor. It is a playful and minimalist fable about a young prince who insists his frown is permanent and immovable, even when confronted by a king, a queen, and a doctor. This clever story explores the idea that our moods can become part of our identity and that sometimes we need a gentle, humorous mirror to see how silly our stubbornness can be. Appropriate for preschoolers and early elementary students, the book uses Crockett Johnson's signature simple line art to strip away distractions and focus on the emotional standoff. Parents will appreciate the way it validates a child's right to their feelings while showing that connection often comes from finding someone else who understands our specific brand of 'serious.' It is a wonderful tool for de-escalating a power struggle through humor and shared recognition.