Guleesh and the King of France's Daughter

Reach for this book when your child is grappling with the idea of justice or feeling small in a world of big, unfair rules. It is an ideal choice for the child who feels like an underdog and needs to see that even a simple, quiet person can disrupt a great wrong through quick thinking and courage. This beautifully illustrated retelling of an Irish legend follows Guleesh, a humble boy who outsmarts a band of magical fairies to save a princess from a life of captivity. While the story contains elements of magic and peril, it is rooted in the timeless theme of standing up for what is right even when you are afraid. It is a sophisticated fairy tale suitable for elementary-aged children who are ready for slightly more complex narratives about good versus evil. Parents will appreciate the lyrical language and the message that kindness and bravery are more powerful than any spell.