Trouble With Parsnips

“This nameless princess is a fabulously different kind of hero. I rooted for her triumph with every page turn.” —Deborah Halverson, award-winning author, editor

It’s like The King’s Speech, but for kids.

When it’s save-the-kingdom time, a nameless princess has to use her whole toolbox. . .

Can she finally use the one tool that’s never worked. . .her quiet voice?

Organizing a party is hard! When you’re a behind-the-scenes inventor princess, it’s even worse.

But when your royal parents fall ill with croquet fever? All they want to do is play croquet!

The pressure’s on!

Then your royal aunt burns down the castle. . .

And your fairy godmother’s booby-trapped gift means. . .

No one hears you at all!

What’s a princess to do?

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Whether it’s speaking up at a feast, or reading a map in a strange kingdom, SEVEN KINGDOMS FAIRY TALES are all about finding more magic in your life.

One lucky child gets the perfect leadership gift.

If only the fairies would remember the training wheels!

Yiiiiiiiikes!

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For ages 9 to 12. Read in any order.

Perfect for fans of funny, fast-paced fairy tales like Jean Ferris’ Once Upon a Marigold or E.G. Foley’s The Gryphon Chronicles.

Also for friends of entertaining adventure stories. . .with a side of handy life skills. (Jacqueline Davies’ The Lemonade Wars or Shannon Hale’s Princess Academy.)

REVIEWS

“Kids will love every quirky thing about it!”

–Kristi Wientge, author, KARMA KHULLAR’S MUSTACHE

“I love the premise of hiding in plain sight. The concept that a kid could go through childhood – and life – without feeling they are being heard or seen is such an important topic . . . I know a lot of kids will be drawn to this!”

–Halli Gomez, contributing author, BRAVE NEW GIRLS: TALES OF HEROINES WHO HACK

“Emotionally engaging. I feel much sympathy for [the nameless princess], yet at the same time her parents and all their inadequacies are so endearing.”

–Michelle Leonard, contributing author, BRAVE NEW GIRLS: STORIES OF GIRLS WHO SCIENCE AND SCHEME, Young Adult (Sci-Fi Anthology for ages 12+)

“I love all the rich details like the Blackflies, the goldfish in the moat, the sluices carrying the desserts . . .” –Karin Lefranc, author, I WANT TO EAT YOUR BOOKS

PRAISE FOR THE SERIES

Book 2: Lost With Leeks

“delightful funny book that captures the readers heart from start to finish. A wicked Queen, hot air balloons, a friendly yellow dragon and a Prince with a lot of responsibility and a huge talent for getting lost make for a hilarious journey. . . will definitely be sharing it with my grandchildren.”-Sharon Walker, grandparent

“a wonderful and fantastical story. . .a great read for older elementary children. . .enjoyed discovering this whimsical world, watching Nero overcome his obstacles, and seeing the growth of characters through the story. . .”-Christina Newcomb

“Very cute story. I can’t wait to read it with my girls! As someone who has no sense of direction, I love that Nero is directionally challenged also. I hope there are more books to follow. I’d love to read about the other characters or even more adventures with Nero.” -Charlotte’s Reviews (Goodreads)

Book 2.5: Trouble at the Valentine Factory

“Gr 4-7–Decher’s fourth book in the “Seven Kingdoms” series is a zany story of ingenuity and collaboration. Life in the Seven Kingdoms is never dull, especially not with fairies popping by to ask for favors and a cranky queen creating candies that will put a spell on anyone who eats them.” –Jen McConnel, SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL

Book 3: Under Pressure With A Squash

“Whimsy and adventure at every turn! . . . another wonderful read. Funny, delightful and whimsical story of two royal siblings who learn what leadership requires. Smiles for readers of all ages who will relate with the troubles these two face in doing what must be done – whether it’s learning multiplication tables or utilizing archery skills!”

—Eileen Schnabel, author, ONE IF BY LAND, TWO IF BY SUBMARINE

Book 4: Rule Trouble: The Case of the Illegal Dragon