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The Cherry Pie Princess
Bored and lonely Princess Peony wants to learn how to DO things – like cooking! But when Peony borrows a cookbook from the public library, the king has the old librarian who tried to help the princess arrested for "speaking out of turn." Can Peony stand up to her father and make things right?
176 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2017
7 people are currently reading
77 people want to read
About the author
Vivian French
591 books142 followersVivian June Isoult French MBE was born in 1945 and educated at Exeter University.
Vivian French was best known in school for being extremely skinny and for talking a lot. At school she developed an attachment to words and later became an actor, then a storyteller, and finally a writer of children's books. She is the author of more than two hundred books. Ms. French lives in Edinburgh, Scotland, and has four grown daughters.
Vivian French was best known in school for being extremely skinny and for talking a lot. At school she developed an attachment to words and later became an actor, then a storyteller, and finally a writer of children's books. She is the author of more than two hundred books. Ms. French lives in Edinburgh, Scotland, and has four grown daughters.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
March 28, 2017
Princess Peony is the youngest of seven sisters, and it would seem the only one interested in wanting to learn rather than have fancy clothes, and marry a prince.
She loves baking, and after borrowing a book from the library she starts making her own pies in the palace kitchen, her favourite being, cherry pie. That was until her father, the king, found out and banned her from ever setting foot in the kitchen again.
One afternoon, Peony discovers that Mr. Longbeard, the librarian, had been thrown in the dungeon for talking to her when she visited the library. Insisting that he be released, Peony finds herself locked in the dungeon for speaking out of turn to her father.
After escaping from her prison cell, the princess discovers that a Hag is after stealing her new baby brother on the day of his christening, because she wasn’t invited. It’s up to her, Basil the cat, and the other inmates from the dungeon to save the day.
The Cherry Pie Princess is a sweet, girly book that I would say is aimed at children between 7-11. The story is very fairytale-esq, with a talking cat, royalty, fairy godmothers, and the hag (witch).
The story is an easy read, and contains some beautiful black and white illustrations by Marta Kissi. This book will have children captivated by the plot, and for those interested in princesses, this is a must read.
Reviewed by Stacey on www.whisperingstories.com
She loves baking, and after borrowing a book from the library she starts making her own pies in the palace kitchen, her favourite being, cherry pie. That was until her father, the king, found out and banned her from ever setting foot in the kitchen again.
One afternoon, Peony discovers that Mr. Longbeard, the librarian, had been thrown in the dungeon for talking to her when she visited the library. Insisting that he be released, Peony finds herself locked in the dungeon for speaking out of turn to her father.
After escaping from her prison cell, the princess discovers that a Hag is after stealing her new baby brother on the day of his christening, because she wasn’t invited. It’s up to her, Basil the cat, and the other inmates from the dungeon to save the day.
The Cherry Pie Princess is a sweet, girly book that I would say is aimed at children between 7-11. The story is very fairytale-esq, with a talking cat, royalty, fairy godmothers, and the hag (witch).
The story is an easy read, and contains some beautiful black and white illustrations by Marta Kissi. This book will have children captivated by the plot, and for those interested in princesses, this is a must read.
Reviewed by Stacey on www.whisperingstories.com
January 10, 2018
Talking cats, fairies, fairy tales, princesses and princess, kings and queens, and lots and lots more!
I instantly loved Peony. She wasn't like her sisters, who just loved their looks and how fabulous they were, instead this girl wants to learn, she wants to read, she wants to study. During one visit to the library she manages to get a cooking book and thus starts her love for books and learning new things. Throughout the book it is shown how much she learned from that one book, and how eager she is to get more books. She really became a pro at baking cherry pies.
But she isn't just eager for learning, oh no, this girl also has a knack for adventure, and isn't afraid to do anything for her family (even if she may not always like them that much, so she is probably doing it mostly for her little brother). She is brave, strong, and determined. I am sure she would make a fantastic ruler if she ever got the chance to be one.
I was quite unhappy at how the dad did things. He doesn't like x then that thing is either banned or the person is thrown into the dungeon. Yep, even for something as simple talking to the princess and handing her a book. :( I felt sorry for Peony when she found out about the librarian, as that meant she learned a new side to her dad, and one that isn't fun. But I was also proud of her how determined she was to talk to him, to get him convinced to undo his decision. Of course, the result... well you have to read the book, but I was definitely not happy with the king. :| Thankfully nothing stops Peony, and I loved what she did there.
This book also has various references to fairy tales, like the fairies that bring their blessings for the baby (or other family members), the hag who doesn't get invited, the sleeping spell, and I could name a few more. I was delighted that the author managed to weave these elements into the story but still keep it original.
The ending was quite fun, and I was happy with what Peony managed to do. I hope this also means there will be a few more changes to how things are handled. Plus I hope Peony gets her wish of being with her baby brother more (yes, unlike her sisters she wants to care and play with her little brother). I am also happy for the fairies.
The book is also illustrated, and this was the main reason why I tried out this book. I fell in love with the illustrator's art in Fairy Mom and Me, and just needed more of her art in my life. In this one as well the art is just fun, gorgeous, and I really loved it.
I will also be checking out what other books this author has written as I do love her writing style. Lastly, I would recommend this book to everyone looking for a fun, magical book featuring a wonderful main character.
Review first posted at https://twirlingbookprincess.com/
I instantly loved Peony. She wasn't like her sisters, who just loved their looks and how fabulous they were, instead this girl wants to learn, she wants to read, she wants to study. During one visit to the library she manages to get a cooking book and thus starts her love for books and learning new things. Throughout the book it is shown how much she learned from that one book, and how eager she is to get more books. She really became a pro at baking cherry pies.
But she isn't just eager for learning, oh no, this girl also has a knack for adventure, and isn't afraid to do anything for her family (even if she may not always like them that much, so she is probably doing it mostly for her little brother). She is brave, strong, and determined. I am sure she would make a fantastic ruler if she ever got the chance to be one.
I was quite unhappy at how the dad did things. He doesn't like x then that thing is either banned or the person is thrown into the dungeon. Yep, even for something as simple talking to the princess and handing her a book. :( I felt sorry for Peony when she found out about the librarian, as that meant she learned a new side to her dad, and one that isn't fun. But I was also proud of her how determined she was to talk to him, to get him convinced to undo his decision. Of course, the result... well you have to read the book, but I was definitely not happy with the king. :| Thankfully nothing stops Peony, and I loved what she did there.
This book also has various references to fairy tales, like the fairies that bring their blessings for the baby (or other family members), the hag who doesn't get invited, the sleeping spell, and I could name a few more. I was delighted that the author managed to weave these elements into the story but still keep it original.
The ending was quite fun, and I was happy with what Peony managed to do. I hope this also means there will be a few more changes to how things are handled. Plus I hope Peony gets her wish of being with her baby brother more (yes, unlike her sisters she wants to care and play with her little brother). I am also happy for the fairies.
The book is also illustrated, and this was the main reason why I tried out this book. I fell in love with the illustrator's art in Fairy Mom and Me, and just needed more of her art in my life. In this one as well the art is just fun, gorgeous, and I really loved it.
I will also be checking out what other books this author has written as I do love her writing style. Lastly, I would recommend this book to everyone looking for a fun, magical book featuring a wonderful main character.
Review first posted at https://twirlingbookprincess.com/
February 1, 2024
Funny and delightful! A princess discovers she loves the wonders of the library, but the rules of her iron fisted father do not allow her to utilize the treasure trove of books or for the librarians to speak to her. When one librarian disregards this rule, he ends up thrown into the dungeon. Can Princess Peony save him?
A creative cast of characters and friendships abound in this atypical fairy tale
A creative cast of characters and friendships abound in this atypical fairy tale
June 23, 2024
I LOVED THIS.
It was so cute. Also, the fact that one of the main characters is a cat just makes it that little bit better, so obviously, it's a 5⭐️
I loved peony's character in this story. We need some of her in real life and less of the King. tbh I love a good lighthearted read, and this definitely hit the spot for that.
I'm so glad that I picked this one up from the library, and I hope to read more from Vivian French
It was so cute. Also, the fact that one of the main characters is a cat just makes it that little bit better, so obviously, it's a 5⭐️
I loved peony's character in this story. We need some of her in real life and less of the King. tbh I love a good lighthearted read, and this definitely hit the spot for that.
I'm so glad that I picked this one up from the library, and I hope to read more from Vivian French
May 2, 2019
Violet and I enjoyed this fairy tale with a feminist bent - We loved Peony’s kindness, creative thinking, and determination and Violet loved Basil the cat. Wonderful illustrations brought the characters to life. I think we’d definitely read a sequel.
February 13, 2018
Super cute! Fun new fairy tale! And now I want to go bake a cherry pie!
November 30, 2024
Kyk retelling cerita sleeping beauty tp versi mid grade, I love the twist, cute and wholesome 100% reccommended
May 12, 2017
Princess Peony is one of 7 princesses in the land of Grating. But Peony, to her governesse's horror is different than her sisters. She would rather read or cook than practise being regal, try on new dresses or think about princes, like her sisters did.
But when she learns a trip to the library years before had ended with her father throwing the elderly librarian in jail - just for answering one of Peony's questions - she is determined to have him freed.
But the king is busy helping organise his new son's christening and he won't listen to her pleads. So Peony sets out to free the librarian herself. But an old hag is coming to the christening, determined to wreak havoc because she wasn't invited!
Peony is up against black magic, and her father's temper, but first she has to escape from the dungeon he has locked her in!
This story is a little 'Rapunzel' and a lot 'Sleeping Beauty', but perfectly good as its own story of a princess who also makes magnificent cherry pies.
But when she learns a trip to the library years before had ended with her father throwing the elderly librarian in jail - just for answering one of Peony's questions - she is determined to have him freed.
But the king is busy helping organise his new son's christening and he won't listen to her pleads. So Peony sets out to free the librarian herself. But an old hag is coming to the christening, determined to wreak havoc because she wasn't invited!
Peony is up against black magic, and her father's temper, but first she has to escape from the dungeon he has locked her in!
This story is a little 'Rapunzel' and a lot 'Sleeping Beauty', but perfectly good as its own story of a princess who also makes magnificent cherry pies.
April 17, 2018
This is a very fun story for kids and one which I would have adored reading myself when I was younger. Princess Peony is different to her family, the King, Queen and her six sisters. During a Royal visit to the library Princess Peony, the only one of her sisters to show any interest in the books there, borrows a recipe book. But Princesses aren't supposed to bake and when her father King Thoroughgood finds out, it is only the start of Princess Peony's troubles.
'The Cherry Pie Princess' is well written and really fun. It's like a new fairy tale story with a bit of humour thrown in. It's easy to get into this children's book right away and although it is not a specifically funny book, the names of some characters and the illustrations inside will make you smile and laugh. The story is quite simple but surprised me as I didn't know what was going to happen. Although the story follows Princess Peony at the beginning it also briefly follows some seemingly random characters like the Fairy Godmothers and a Hag. All these characters stories later entwine to make a really good ending.
The illustrations are funny and have enough detail for me to really like them. There are illustrations throughout the book, in black and white and there's are illustrations on every other double page. The pictures really lend to the story and are really well drawn, I especially like the image later of the cat sitting in the tree. The ending of the story is a really good one and even though it's predictably happy, I still didn't know how everything would get resolved or what would happen to Princess Peony after a spell was cast! (can't say more or I'd spoil it!).
I think kids will love this story, particularly if they are into fairy tales and although girls might be more inclined to enjoy this book, given the title and the cover, I'm sure some boys would too as Peony herself isn't overly girly in her personality. Adults might also enjoy it as I did. I'd definitely recommend this book to others, given the fact it's like a fairy tale it also has a little lesson that some characters have to learn but it's all told in a really fun way and I'll certainly be on the lookout for more Vivian French books after I've read this one!
-Thanks to Walker Books for a free copy.
'The Cherry Pie Princess' is well written and really fun. It's like a new fairy tale story with a bit of humour thrown in. It's easy to get into this children's book right away and although it is not a specifically funny book, the names of some characters and the illustrations inside will make you smile and laugh. The story is quite simple but surprised me as I didn't know what was going to happen. Although the story follows Princess Peony at the beginning it also briefly follows some seemingly random characters like the Fairy Godmothers and a Hag. All these characters stories later entwine to make a really good ending.
The illustrations are funny and have enough detail for me to really like them. There are illustrations throughout the book, in black and white and there's are illustrations on every other double page. The pictures really lend to the story and are really well drawn, I especially like the image later of the cat sitting in the tree. The ending of the story is a really good one and even though it's predictably happy, I still didn't know how everything would get resolved or what would happen to Princess Peony after a spell was cast! (can't say more or I'd spoil it!).
I think kids will love this story, particularly if they are into fairy tales and although girls might be more inclined to enjoy this book, given the title and the cover, I'm sure some boys would too as Peony herself isn't overly girly in her personality. Adults might also enjoy it as I did. I'd definitely recommend this book to others, given the fact it's like a fairy tale it also has a little lesson that some characters have to learn but it's all told in a really fun way and I'll certainly be on the lookout for more Vivian French books after I've read this one!
-Thanks to Walker Books for a free copy.
September 23, 2021
In this reimagined fairytale Princess Peony finds her father’s rigid rules boring. She doesn’t want to be a pampered, cloistered little girl who isn’t allowed to read, cook, or climb trees. When she and her seven older sisters visit the library with her governess, Peony asks to borrow a cookbook, and Mr. Librarian, the librarian, is fired for helping her. Peony returns home with the forbidden book where she hides away in the kitchen baking delicious cherry pies until her father finds out and punishes her. Four years later, Peony finds out that Mr. Longbeard has been imprisoned all of this time, and she wants to rescue him. Complicating matters, her father invites the three good fairies to her new brother’s christening but he doesn’t invite the Hag. T Kissi’s warm and expressive illustrations complement the humorous and fast-paced storyline to create a memorial experience for young chapter-book readers.
April 20, 2018
Sweet story with humor and excitement. Pokes fun at the exaggerated caricature of stereotypical royals from fairytales and media (being self absorbed and narrow-minded). Follows fairytale tropes but tweaks them. Fun cast of characters. Would be a great read aloud. Geared towards ages 7 and up so it is a simplistic story and enjoyable.
April 24, 2021
3.5 stars. My 6y/o's pick, so not my favorite genre, but you can't deny a strong female lead. Princess Peony wants to learn about all of the things after a visit to the library, escapes the castle multiple times, makes friends with everyone on her adventure, and possesses strong problem solving skills to rescue her brother.
May 20, 2018
A wonderfully fun tale about being persistent and standing up for truth. Princess Peony wants to widen her mind and knows the library is her avenue. She just needs to figure out how to free the librarian from her Father’s dungeon!
October 24, 2019
This was a fun little story, and I really liked the way it ended. I love the Princess. She is somehow sweet, and kind hearted, although all the other royalty around her, and her governess lady are just horrible people. I also love the characters that the Princess makes friends with.
March 17, 2020
Absolutely loved this book and its take on a fairytale format. So bummed there are not more books. I enjoyed the world and the characters, and a talking cat that you don't even get to meet till towards the end. I need more!!
May 9, 2023
Very cute. It brings in fairytale-like characters, which is a plus. I mean, who doesn't like fairies and old hags? Overall, a sweet story, and an easier read than a lot of books. Kid appropriate and fun! Will definitely read again.
December 7, 2023
A strong willed young princess who is not like her older seven sisters is the main character. Princess Peony is different from her family in every way. Challenging the status quo is difficult, especially if you are a princess! Lovely illustration.
October 1, 2024
A sweet read with a bit of Roald Dahl flair in the cast - the princess’ parents and sisters were delightfully detestable without being entirely offputting, and the librarian and jester were fun takes on the sort of helping hands that always show up in a quest.
October 28, 2018
A delightful novel that would be a great elementary read-aloud or read-alone. Vivian French creates protagonists who are both humorous and likeable.
May 27, 2019
My favorite part of this book is when the Cherry Pie Princess was making pies because the pie looked delicious!!! The Cherry Pie Princess also was very lucky too because she had a castle!!!
April 4, 2020
This was a lot like other fairy tales.
May 21, 2020
Read- May 2020 for Believathon II
- I enjoyed this more than Tom & Tallulah, this was very cute.
- I enjoyed this more than Tom & Tallulah, this was very cute.
Read
July 24, 2020A book-loving princess with the help of her friends (and magic) rights the wrongs in the kingdom. Enjoyable read with my 9yo.
March 13, 2021
Very cute book to read before bedtime with my girls.
April 16, 2021
Read with my daughter. More engaging for me than a lot of the princess and fairy books she likes to read.
May 12, 2021
Really cute read aloud for the classroom! Strong female lead with determination to do what's right. I really love the character lesson in this book.
July 11, 2021
A wonderful story. Somewhat reminiscent of Sleeping Beauty. Princess Peony's courage is so great and it may also help others to be a little braver and to stand up for themselves.
November 30, 2021
I read it and it was SOOO good. It was a play on the fairytales: sleeping beauty and it is its very own fairytale.
I am eight years old
I am eight years old
December 31, 2021
Fun, fanciful children’s book. Great read aloud with younger elementary kids.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews