King Long Shanks

Reach for this book when your child is starting to navigate the social pressures of 'going along with the crowd' or when they need a humorous lesson on the difference between true confidence and empty vanity. This playful retelling of The Emperor's New Clothes stars King Long Shanks, a frog who is so enamored with his own 'very good legs' that he falls prey to a pair of smooth-talking tailors. While the story is full of silliness, it addresses the very real emotional weight of embarrassment and the courage it takes to speak the truth when everyone else is pretending. It is an ideal pick for children aged 4-9 who are developing their own moral compass and learning to identify when flattery might be hiding a trick. Parents will appreciate how the vibrant, cartoon-like illustrations keep the mood light, even as the King marches into a parade with nothing on but his pride.