About This Book
This heartwarming chapter book tackles the common 'evil stepmother' trope head-on, offering a gentle and reassuring narrative for children navigating blended family dynamics. Hessie, the young protagonist, is filled with apprehension, expecting her new stepmother to be a villain from a fairy tale. However, she quickly discovers that her stepmother is kind, loving, and nothing like the stories. It's a wonderful tool for parents to open conversations about stereotypes, new family members, and the importance of judging people based on their actions, not preconceived notions. Ideal for children aged 4-11, it provides comfort and a positive perspective on what a step-parent relationship can be.
Expecting her new stepmother to be mean, ugly, and horrible, Hessie is surprised and confused to find her not wicked at all.
Discussion Prompts
1
What did Hessie expect her new stepmother to be like, and why?
2
Have you ever had an idea about someone before you met them, and then they turned out to be different?
3
How did Hessie's feelings change throughout the story?
4
Why do you think some fairy tales show stepmothers as 'wicked'?
5
What does this book teach us about judging people?
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