Rating (for both books): 5 out of 5 stars
Synopsis:
The Prince and The Dressmaker by Jen Wang
Prince Sebastian is looking for a bride―or rather, his parents are looking for one for him. Sebastian is too busy hiding his secret life from everyone. At night he puts on daring dresses and takes Paris by storm as the fabulous Lady Crystallia―the hottest fashion icon in the world capital of fashion!
Sebastian’s secret weapon (and best friend) is the brilliant dressmaker Frances―one of only two people who know the truth: sometimes this boy wears dresses. But Frances dreams of greatness, and being someone’s secret weapon means being a secret. Forever. How long can Frances defer her dreams to protect a friend? Jen Wang weaves an exuberantly romantic tale of identity, young love, art, and family. A fairy tale for any age, The Prince and the Dressmaker will steal your heart. - Goodreads
The Witch Boy by Molly Ostertag
In thirteen-year-old Aster's family, all the girls are raised to be witches, while boys grow up to be shapeshifters. Anyone who dares cross those lines is exiled. Unfortunately for Aster, he still hasn't shifted . . . and he's still fascinated by witchery, no matter how forbidden it might be.
When a mysterious danger threatens the other boys, Aster knows he can help -- as a witch. It will take the encouragement of a new friend, the non-magical and non-conforming Charlie, to convince Aster to try practicing his skills. And it will require even more courage to save his family . . . and be truly himself. - Goodreads
Reviews:
The Prince and The Dressmaker
I'm in love with this book! Not only is it very wholesome, but the illustrations and the dress designs are imaginative and beautiful. It was a quick read and shifted my mood significantly once I finished it. I would love to see more books like this or even a series like this on the shelves. This would be powerful for so many folx, especially for discussing gender roles. I recommend it to everyone!!!
The Witch Boy
This is another gorgeous book with content pertaining to queerness and gender norms. The mystery adds another layer to it that wonderfully speaks to what it means when a gender role becomes toxic for the individual and their community. The magic was a big bonus for me! I also recommend this book to everyone.
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