Princess Penelope's Purse of Preposterous Things - by Angela C Santomero (Hardcover)

About the Book

The YouTube Kids sensation with over 7 million views! Join Princess Penelope as she uses kindness and friendship to solve problems in Storybook Meadow.

In this playful and interactive adventure, children are introduced to Princess Penelope--a kindhearted kitten with a magical purse of preposterous things--who empowers children to solve problems with creativity, empathy, imagination, and sparkly fun.

Book Synopsis

The YouTube Kids sensation with over 7 million views! Join Princess Penelope as she uses kindness and friendship to solve problems in Storybook Meadow.

Once upon a time, in the twinkling world of Storybook Meadow, lived Penelope, a kind little kitten who loved to help her friends -- from teaching frogs to flip to cheering bunnies who sing! But when Dragon's fiery roar threatens The Castle Ball, Penelope's bravery (and kindness!) are put to the test. With the help of a mysterious gift from Mother Nature -- a sparkling purple purse filled with the most preposterous things -- Penelope sets out to turn fear into friendship.

Through teamwork, creativity, and a few fire-toasted marshmallows, Penelope proves that a little kindness can make even the fiercest dragon feel right at home. And just when the ball ends happily ever after... her purse wiggles again! Could another adventure be about to begin?

Review Quotes

Funny, lively story of a friendly cat learning the value of kindness.

Santomero's playful and encouraging picture book for young children follows Penelope, a friendly cat who learns the true value of kindness. Each day Penelope finds little ways to help her friends ... Each time, Penelope is there with a boost of encouragement to help her pals meet their goals. The exception is Dragon, who insists on roaring and breathing fire ... When Penelope receives a "magical purse of preposterous things" from Mother Nature that will give her whatever she needs to help others, she wonders whether she might discover something special for Dragon inside. Eventually, Penelope finds a way for Dragon to put his unique abilities to good use.

The story shows young readers that sometimes the people who initially seem angry or withdrawn are the ones who can benefit most from a kind gesture. The lively illustrations by David Stark, Stephanie Six, and James Hutchinson center on Penelope, a perky purple cat wearing a lacy pink tutu. The multimodal images layer a variety of colors and textures, with Dragon's belly sparkling with green sequins and Penelope's purse covered with three-dimensional purple flowers.

The story ends with Penelope's special purse giving a little wiggle, indicating that more adventures are to come.--Booklife Review

Our family is huge fans of Angela C. Santomero, and she continues to shine with this adorable, imaginative story. Princess Penelope's Purse of Preposterous Things is colorful, creative, and full of that signature heart she brings to children's literature and learning. Penelope is such a lovable little kitten, and her journey--from helping friends to facing down a fiery dragon with kindness and courage--had my little ones completely captivated. We especially loved the message that bravery and compassion can turn even the scariest moments into something magical. And that sparkling purple purse full of surprises? Pure fun. This is a wonderful read-aloud for young children, full of encouragement, whimsy, and warmth. We absolutely loved it. --Katie W., Edelweiss reviewer

About the Author