Melisande

Cursed bald at birth by the wicked fairy Malevola, a princess grows up and wishes for golden hair — only to find that too much hair brings its own troubles.

For the kid who loves a good curse-and-wish fairy tale, this one turns a classic christening spell into a story about being careful what you wish for.

• Big idea: Getting exactly what you wished for doesn't always solve the problem — it just changes it.
• Vibes: Witty, old-fashioned fairy-tale storytelling with a knowing sense of humor, brought to life with rich, classical illustration.

• enjoy classic fairy tales with curses and wishes
• like to imagine princes and princesses solving impossible problems
• are working on understanding that wishes can have surprising consequences
• respond well to rich, detailed storybook illustrations

• Story & problem-solving: What do you think Melisande could do about her hair — too little, then too much?
• Feelings & empathy: How do you think Melisande felt when Malevola cursed her at her christening?
• Imagination: If a fairy granted you one wish, what would you wish for — and what might go wrong?
• Real-life connection: Have you ever wished really hard for something and then found it wasn't quite what you expected?
• Character: What kind of prince do you think Florizel is, to help Melisande untangle her fate?