In The Princess and the Pit Stop the use of the different fairy tale characters is clever, but overall it is the race Vanellope of Wreck it Ralph entered with every “twisted fairy tale pun” possible. Yet, Tom Angelberger can be forgiven for that as the book is just plain funny and well done. It is perfect for the four to eight-year-old crowd.
Clever illustrations of Dan Santat with his signature style and great colors help this book to be a more fun read. It is girl power at its finest. The Princes is in last place. So, what shall she do? Quit? It would seem to be the only thing to do, yet OH NO! This Princess can save herself. Just, can she win the race?
The quirkiness of the text and illustrations make this for a fun read aloud or as a quiet read for the starting reader. The great thing about Angelberger is that he has something for everyone. However, you always know what you are getting. This will not be a serious book about trying and doing your best, it will be a goofy way to give that message.
Yes, I like this book. Is it going to be a classic like The Ture Story of the Three Little Pigs by Jon Scieszka and Lane Smith? Probably not. But it is in that same formula of a story. Therefore, this will become a favorite of your child. Be prepared, dear adult reader, to read this book over. And over. And over. (Did I mention reading it over and over?)