Tackles important issues and big emotions.

"THE TALE OF THE PRINCE AND THE SPIDER by Sasha Hopkins is the emotional adventure of a young prince, beloved by his future subjects, who runs into an evil intent on doing him terrible, long-lasting harm. Young Prince Alexander comes across a forest-dwelling while out riding one day. Knocking on the door, he meets Jonathan, a young man or perhaps just an older boy, with whom he quickly develops a connection because of their similar likes. However, once Alex enters Jonathan’s house, he discovers Jonathan is hiding bad intentions. Inspired by events from the author’s own childhood, the tale is an allegory for lost innocence and friendship betrayed, but also about having the courage to speak up, overcoming the trauma of the past, and not letting it define one’s future. The story presents important and sensitive issues that children can understand, especially if shared one-on-one or in a group, followed by adult-led discussion of what Alexander experienced, and probably not for random consumption without context. The way the author delivers the story is a gift to parents who need to share this with their children. The author does a great job developing his characters, and while Alexander has princely virtues, he still feels like any young boy. His championing of his younger sister when Jonathan comes back around will resonate especially well with children who have siblings. In the story itself, there is mention of The Lost Forest that goes unexplained and a few stories that are given a quick description as Alex and Jonathan converse and build rapport. I hope the author follows this picture book with others that pursue those mentioned tales and location, but I found their inclusion here, while intriguing, a distraction from the bigger story. The story is enhanced by Kyle Completo’s artwork, which illustrates different scenes throughout the story. I found Jonathan’s alter ego particularly vivid and appropriately menacing. I recommend THE TALE OF THE PRINCE AND THE SPIDER for home, school, and afterschool program bookshelves."

— Karen S. (4/5)