King Wilfred has taught his three sons all the things a knight should know. When his daughter, Violetta, is born, he makes sure the princess receives the same instruction her brothers do. However, the princes constantly tease their little sister because she is not as big and strong as they are. To prove herself, Violetta practices day and night to perfect her skills -- with the result that she is able to best her brothers.

Imagine Violetta's indignation when, to commemorate her sixteenth birthday, King Wilfred announces a tournament, and the prize awarded the winner will be her hand in marriage! The angry princess protests, "You want me to marry some dimwit in a tin suit? Just look at your own knights! They whip their horses and they can't even write their own names!" Not one to take things lying down, Violetta dons a suit of armor, introduces herself as Sir No-Name, and enters the tournament. When the princess emerges victorious and reveals her identity, she is able to choose her own prize. What she decides makes for a satisfying conclusion to a humorous, uplifting story. Kirsten Meyer's ink-and-watercolor illustrations add a medieval feel, and at the same time complement the lighthearted tone of the story. Ages 5-9 32 pages

Recommended by Barbara Karp, Librarian