The Dumpy Princess

Hardly a description which instantly brings to mind Victoria, one of the most famous and best-loved of British monarchs, but more like the beginning of a fairy story - and the resemblance doesn't stop there.

Replete with wicked uncles, a menacing and deceitful advisor and a fairytale romance, the story of Victoria's early life seems almost unreal. Admittedly, a fair amount of poetic licence has been employed but the resulting story, complemented by endearing and witty illustrations, is absorbing, fascinating and eminently accessible to young readers.

Ideal as a first 'chapters' book for newly fluent readers but also suitable for reading aloud to children of all ages.