Superhero Cowgirl Princess Book Review

 

Author: Janine Parker

Illustrator: Juliet Parker

Publisher: Marvelous Minds Press

Released: October 9, 2023

Format: Hardcover

ISBN: 979-8-9890508-0-2

Reviewer: Ellwyn Autumn

Rating:  3 1/2 Lemon Drops

Available for purchase here.

Review:

A child brimming with enthusiasm and creativity supported by a mother who happily encourages ger to explore every facet of her personality.

I received a complimentary copy of the book from Reedsy and agreed to give an honest review.

Book Summary:

As Halloween approaches, Juliet, a little girl with limitless aspirations to be anything and everything, embraces the power of her vivid imagination.

Right now, is the perfect time for her to delve into new experiences and uncover more about herself.

Under the intentional questions posed by her mother, Juliet explores the multi-faceted roles she’d like to take on. This ultimately leads to a one-of-a-kind Halloween costume of self-expression and playfulness.

Opinion:

Superhero Cowgirl Princess is a fantastic story for any child looking to express themselves in a safe environment.

In step with the thrust of redesigning gender roles, Juliet exemplifies how girls can embrace masculine roles while still maintaining their feminine identity.

I liked how Juliet's mother encouraged her with open-ended 'wh' questions.

Children can expand their vocabulary, confidence, and critical thinking skills by answering these types of questions. They also learn social norms for productive conversations with others.

Juliet's mom embodies the ideal parent who guides their child towards self-awareness without being intrusive.

She enthusiastically supports Juliet’s colorful wardrobe choices that evolves into an energetic blend of childhood ingenuity and dramatic play.   

The story was enjoyable, and it sends a positive message that resonates with girls and children everywhere. That being said, the story would benefit from another edit.

Two inconsistencies exist with the names of the characters. First, the mother is referred to as Mom and Mommy. I believe the author should use only one of these labels.

Second, the main character’s name is Juliet, but we don’t learn her name until halfway through the story. Introducing Juliet’s name on page three of the story would better serve the reader. The author could simply switch sweetheart with Juliet.   

Juliet Parker’s watercolor illustrations capture the warm palette of autumn that complement the fall themed story nicely. Children will enjoy the different scenarios the main character envisions for herself.

I would have liked to give the story four stars but refrained because of the changes I feel it needs.

I give it 3 1/2 Lemon Drops!

Classroom Connection: 

Superhero Cowgirl Princess is a perfect example for a lesson on self-image and the unique creativity we all possess as well as a Halloween Read Aloud.

Age Range: Pre-K to 3rd Grade

Targeted Vocabulary: 

spiraled, crooked, sparkly, dashing, fluttering, heroic, adventure, galloping, tiara, imagining, imagination

Resources: 

Click the picture to access the links.

About The Author:

For over 20 years, Janine has provided individual and family therapy services by creating a therapeutic atmosphere of warmth, respect, and acceptance. Her approach is to support the dignity of each person while encouraging openness, emotional awareness, and healthy problem-solving.

About the Illustrator:

When Juliet was little, she was notorious for playing dress up and throwing around wild ideas. As a young woman, she still likes to think she plays dress-up, only now she’s dressing up as herself. Specifically, she gets to wake up every day and dress up as the “myself’ that her mom helped her become.