Princess Mirror-Belle

When Ellen's reflection steps right out of the bathroom mirror, she discovers it's not her double at all but the mischievous Princess Mirror-Belle, a royal troublemaker from a far-off kingdom. This collection of magical adventures from the creators of The Gruffalo is perfectly pitched for newly independent readers, blending accessible text with Lydia Monks' signature black-and-white illustrations that bring the chaos to life. Each chapter presents a new escapade where the princess's magical thinking and royal entitlement collide hilariously with the ordinary world, creating a delightful bridge between picture books and chapter books.

What makes these stories so compelling is how Julia Donaldson captures the perfect blend of fantasy and relatable childhood scenarios, from a trip to the swimming pool to a case of the chicken pox. Young readers who are ready for more substantial stories but still appreciate visual storytelling will find themselves completely absorbed in Mirror-Belle's antics and the gentle tension between her magical perspective and Ellen's practical one. The dynamic between the cautious Ellen and her bold, rule-bending counterpart creates a wonderful exploration of imagination and friendship that will have children glancing hopefully at their own mirrors.