Welcome to Nonna’s Corner where I share books I have read and reviewed with my grandchildren, affectionately referred to as the Royals here at Caffeinated Reviewer. Today, Sophia and I are excited to share Arabella and the Magic Pencil by Stephanie M. Ward. Grab a cup of hot cocoa and see why we adored it.
by Stephanie M. Ward
Illustrator: Shaney Hyde
Genres: Childrens
Pages: 32
Source: Author
Purchase*: Amazon *affiliate
Arabella is a beloved only child who has everything a little girl could want. That is, until her brother, Avery, the master of mayhem, comes along. While she certainly loves him, she finds that it’s sometimes very hard to like him. So she spends her days creating marvelous, magnificent things with her magic pencil, and trying to ignore him. But when he spoils her perfectly proper tea party, she decides drastic action is required and she erases him from her life. Oops! But things aren’t the same without him — can she get him back?
Arabella and the Magic Pencil is a charming story, which will appeal to any child coming to terms with a new sibling and to caregivers who are supporting changing family dynamics, as well as those who love fantasy and engaging, alliterative language.
Arabella and the Magic Pencil by Stephanie M. Ward tells the story of a young princess who has everything a little girl could wish for. Each year she granted one wish by Royal decree. I should stop at this point and tell you that Princess Sophia loves everything about the story thus far. The illustrations by Shaney Hyde are in soft water colors and Sophia loves the palace, Arabella’s dresses and the gardens.
Arabella however is not impressed by the newest arrival to the palace. A brother with a rather large royal name or Avery for short. Sophia who will be five easily sympathize as she has a younger brother, Prince Clayton who turned three this month. The story shares what younger brothers do. They interrupt your play, move things, destroy things and at times royally frustrate you.
As it happens, Arabella was granted a magical pencil that allows her to draw anything only in a mad dash of frustration she erases Avery.
I loved watching Sophia’s reactions and admittedly she panicked a wee bit, but thankfully the author didn’t drag things out and Arabella being quite clever and sweet came up with the perfect solution. Everything ended on a happy note with lessons learned and allowed for a lovely discussion about annoying siblings, friends and the reasons why we still love them!
I loved when Sophia turned to her brother, Clayton hugged him and said, “Don’t worry brother, I won’t erase you!” ?
The author was kind enough to send Princess Sophia paper dolls and coloring pages for the book, but folks can also download them for free from the publishers website: https://ekbooks.org/product/arabella-and-the-magic-pencil/ We had such fun coloring and playing with these.
If you are looking for a gift for an older child expecting a new sibling or even a holiday gift Arabella and the Magic Pencil would make a wonderful edition to your bookshelf, classroom or nursery.
- Age Range: 4 – 8 years
- Grade Level: Preschool – 3
About Kimberly
Kimberly is a coffee loving book addict who reads and listens to fictional stories in all genres. Whovian, Ravenclaw, Howler and proud Nonna. She owns and manages Caffeinated PR. The coffee is always on and she is ready to chat. BlueSky | Facebook | Instagram
Carla
This sounds so cute Kimberly. I think my princess would love this one as well. Wonderful review.
Veronica @The Burgeoning Bookshelf
My granddaughter also loved this story. And Yes, she also has an annoying,but much loved, little brother.
Barbara Strickland
what a lovely review
Shane hyde
What a beautiful review of Arabella and the Magic Pencil. And I loved reading about Princess Sophia. Than you Nonna’s corner
Stephanie Ward
Thank you so much for reviewing Arabella and the Magic Pencil! I’m so pleased to hear that your granddaughter enjoyed the activities and her sweet comment to her littler brother made my heart smile. I really appreciate you sharing such a thoughtful review on your fabulous blog!
sherry fundin
looks like a great one for the kiddies
Melliane
Oh it looks sweet there
Mary Kirkland
Aww that is so sweet what Sophia said to her brother.
Jonetta (Ejaygirl) | Blue Mood Café
This sounds wonderful! I’ve got a 4-year old niece who’s essentially an only child (her older sister is 19) but has some new step siblings. Excellent review?
Tyler H. Jolley
This is very cute, and the illustrations feel old school and I’m here for it. I hope you and your family have a wonderful, and stress free Thanksgiving!
Silvia
Aww, this one sounds precious! And how cute that the author sent Princess Sophia paper dolls and colouring pages as well <3 So glad you both had a lovely time with this book 🙂
Ailyn Koay
There are days when I wished I could erase my brother too.. Thank goodness I had no magic pencils/ erases then