Cute retelling of a lesser-known Brothers Grimm story...but what the heck is with the names Jared and Raina? The princess is named for a ray of sunshine but "rain" is literally in her name.

Anyway, cute illustrations, an active princess who chooses, helps, and works with her prince before getting married, and gets herself out of an abusive situation. She even learns a lesson and frees her birds from their cages after escaping the house where she'd been kept prisoner. Much better than the best-known princess fare. ( )

Picture book adaptation of the Grimm Brother's traditional tale Old Rinkrank. Tells the story of Princess Raina and her father's plan to find her the perfect match. Problems arise but Raina's ingenuity and determination make for a happy ending.

Grades: K-6

Classroom use: fairy tales, heroines

34 months - an adapted Brother's Grimm story. A fun read. ( )