Publishers Weekly
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Six-year-old Tabitha Laurie believes that love conquers all. Then her parents divorce, leaving her heartbroken. To help distract her, Tabi’s father takes her to the Disney-esque Sommerland, where she meets Princess Madeline, a theme park character who renews her faith in true love. Now 17, Tabi plans to audition for a Sommerland princess role while participating in the park’s seasonal employment program; she refuses to let her snobby summer roommate, pessimistic coworkers, and a less than desirable gig tending a nacho stand shake her resolve. Despite mean-spirited comments that she’d be better suited to a costumed animal character, she auditions for a princess role anyway. And when she doesn’t get the part, she devotes all her efforts, energy, and free time to preparing for the next audition opportunity. She also bonds with James, a park character attendant who shares her love for the magic of Sommerland despite his own complicated past. Meyer (With a Little Luck) charms in this touching graphic novel tale about chasing one’s dreams, overcoming obstacles, and believing in magic. Jewel-toned artwork by Murray (A Day at Abbott Elementary) evokes fairy tale vibes, making for a cozy and appropriately swoony read. Tabitha is Black; James is white. Ages 12–up. (June)

Kirkus
Copyright © Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.

Seventeen-year-old Tabitha Laurie has been a devoted fan of Sommerland theme park since she was a little girl. Tabi, who has dark brown skin and Afro-textured hair, believes in the magic Sommerland offers—including the promise of true love—especially after facing the shock of her parents’ divorce. After securing a position in the park’s summer program for high schoolers, Tabi is excited, declaring that “happily ever after begins with working at Sommerland.” But she quickly learns that other employees don’t feel the same enthusiasm and in fact have numerous complaints about the guests and work conditions. Despite this, Tabi dreams of becoming a character actor—in particular Princess Madeline, the brown-skinned princess she was thrilled to meet as a child. But she’s assigned to a nacho stand instead. She auditions for one of the coveted princess positions but quickly learns that “there are no fat princesses in Sommerland.” As Tabi navigates her feelings of insecurity, she tries not to lose her sense of the park’s magic. The bright, colorful illustrations, which emphasize the characters’ emotions, set the stage for a delightfully affirming story of learning to accept yourself despite what others may say. Even with the very quick pacing, the storytelling is strong. Meyer explores themes of body positivity and bullying as Tabi contends with cutting comments about her size but ultimately creates and spreads joy with support from those who value her as she is. A whimsical, enchanting, and celebratory read.(Graphic fiction. 12-18) Copyright © Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.

School Library Journal
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Gr 8 Up—Tabitha (Tabi) is thrilled when she gets a summer internship at Sommerland, the theme park that has been her obsession since childhood. But once she arrives, the magic quickly fades. Her roommate is rude, the park's employees constantly complain about their minimum wage jobs, and she can't seem to find anyone who shares her excitement. Tabi's first assignment is Nacho Mama's Food Stand, where she wears an itchy uniform and anxiously awaits the upcoming character auditions. When the day arrives, her dream of becoming a Sommerland princess is quickly squashed. Doubling down on her goal, Tabi practices relentlessly and manages to get cast as Kitty Wise, the park's mascot. Though she appreciates her new position, Tabi realizes that no matter how hard she tries, the world may not be ready for a princess who doesn't fit the typical standards of beauty. But with the help of one of her only true friends there, and a new crush, she may be able to change that. This is a sweet, wholesome story about dreams, self-esteem, motivation, and pushing back against societal norms. The whimsical drawings are colorful and upbeat. While the plot is simple, it succeeds in capturing one teenage girl's unmatched determination and her power to change a small part of her world. Tabi is Black and full-figured, and there is diverse representation from secondary and background characters throughout. VERDICT A charming story that is recommended for libraries that are looking for sweet, fun romances.—Karin Greenberg