The Hero's Guide to Saving Your Kingdom by Christopher Healy
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A hilarious romp that turns traditional fairy tales on their heads.

Ever notice how the princes get overlooked in the classic stories? Cinderella, Rapunzel, Snow White, Sleeping Beauty.... Those stories are all named after their princesses. Well, this book takes a look at the princes of those tales. Namely, the Princes Charming.

Prince Frederic is a dandy afraid of any and everything that might scar, mar, or otherwise dirty his princely perfection, but he's loyal, kind, and good with his words. Gustav is a burly brute with anger management issues and a massive inferiority complex, but he's brave and cares more than he wants to admit. Duncan is a dunce of the highest order, but his childlike innocence carries him through challenges will infectious optimism. Liam is too good for his own good. A noble hero who will do what is right even if it means turning his entire kingdom against him and living in exile.

Each of these princes failed to find renown in their princess's stories, but they're writing their own tales now. Against pint-sized bandits, house-sized trolls, and angry ex's, they will learn to rely on each other's unique strengths (and make up for their many weaknesses) to save all their kingdoms and finally be recognized for the heroic princes they are... or die trying.

This book had my whole family laughing out loud. The plot is fun, tight, and fast. The characters are well crafted, with more depth than I expected. The humor is non-stop but subtle enough not to come across as heavy handed. The book includes cute illustrations that really bring the characters to life. The writing is smooth and the voice is perfect. I really can't find fault, and I can't wait to read the next one!

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