Jane Ray’s original and handsomely decorated fairy tale is about three brown-skinned princesses competing to be their father’s eventual successor. The king gives them seven days to“do something to make your mark—something to make me proud.” Clever Suzanna sets out to build the highest tower in the world to remind everyone of her importance. She commands the citizens to bring her all the wood they possess. Vain Miranda, not to be bested, strives to build an even taller tower, and demands that the kingdom’s subjects bring all the metal they own for the construction. Quiet Serenity plants an apple seed in land that has been barren since her mother’s death. Each day she plants another. Villagers join her with seeds of their own, and with the help of the treasures from the simple wooden box she chose from among her late mother’s belongings, the land is soon in bloom, as is her father’s heart. Ray’s fanciful, heartening story of renewal features artfully whimsical illustrations that incorporate eye-catching details and lovely gold accents. (Ages 4–8)

The ruler of a kingdom turned barren and sad upon the death of the queen decides to select his successor by challenging each of his three daughters to do something to make him proud. The youngest plants an apple pip left to her by her mother, which sprouts and inspires others to plant seeds. The kingdom is magically renewed, and she is chosen. Ray writes with a strong storytelling voice; this original tale has the flavor of a folktale. The richly colored collage and watercolor illustrations, some of which are embellished with Ray’s signature frames touched with gold, are stunning . ca

Originally published by Orchard Books Great Britain, in 2007.