About This Book
Reach for this book when your child begins to equate 'fun' with being bossy, exclusionary, or unkind to others. It is a vital tool for parents navigating the transition from preschool play to more complex elementary social dynamics, where the allure of a 'cool' but mean friend can lead to poor choices. The story follows Prince Mainichi and Princess Ichinichi, whose boredom leads them to welcome a rude dwarf into their palace. What begins as silly games quickly spirals into dangerous and cruel behavior, forcing the royal pair to reckon with the consequences of their guests' influence. It is a lushly illustrated cautionary tale that addresses the weight of responsibility, the danger of vanity, and the importance of setting boundaries with those who do not have our best interests at heart. Best suited for ages 5 to 8, it provides a safe space to discuss how to spot a 'dwarf giant' in real life: someone who makes themselves feel big by making others feel small.
