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This is an advance, uncorrected proof. Not for resale, duplication, or reposting. Please do not quote without comparison to the finished book.
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This is an advance, uncorrected proof. Not for resale, duplication, or reposting. Please do not quote without comparison to the finished book.
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This is an advance, uncorrected proof. Not for resale, duplication, or Written by quote without reposting. Please do not comparison to the finished book.
Lesléa Newman
Illustrated by Joshua
Heinsz
Abrams B o oks for Young Readers New York FairestintheLand_INT_cx1prf.indd 5
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The artwork for this book was created digitally. Cataloging-in-Publication Data has been applied for and may be obtained from the Library of Congress. ISBN 978-1-4197-5709-9 Text © 2023 Lesléa Newman Illustrations © 2023 Joshua Heinsz Edited by Howard W. Reeves Book design by Natalie Padberg Bartoo Published in 2023 by Abrams Books for Young Readers, an imprint of ABRAMS. All rights reserved. No portion of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, mechanical, electronic, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without written permission from the publisher.
This is an advance, uncorrected proof. Not for resale, duplication, or Printed and bound in China 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 reposting. Please do not quote without comparison to the finished book. Abrams Books for Young Readers are available at special discounts when purchased in quantity for premiums and promotions as well as fundraising or educational use. Special editions can also be created to specification. For details, contact specialsales@abramsbooks.com or the address below. Abrams ® is a registered trademark of Harry N. Abrams, Inc.
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For kids and grown-ups everywhere whose wish is to be seen for who they are: a splendid prince or princess, king, or QUEEN! —L.N. For the incredible women in my life who have inspired and allowed me to shine as my truest self without judgment or hesitation. I’m forever grateful for your friendships. —J.H.
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“Let’s get dressed up,” said Annabelle. “Who would you like to be?”
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“I’ll be a bride,” said Benjamin, “and you can marry me. I’ll wear silk ribbons in my hair to match my lacy dress, and everyone will ooh and ahh to see my loveliness.”
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“Okay,” said Annabelle, “and I will walk you down the aisle.” She slipped into a handsome suit and tried her best to smile.
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“Let’s get dressed up,” said Annabelle. “Who would you like to be?”
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“A dancer,” Benjamin declared, and leapt up gracefully.
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“I’ll be a ballerina in pink slippers tied with bows. And I will wear a tutu, too, and dance upon my toes.”
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“All right,” said Annabelle, “and I will lift you up and down.” And though she played her part quite well, she couldn’t help but frown.
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“Let’s get dressed up,” said Annabelle. “Who would you like to be?” “A princess!” shouted Benjamin. “Who lives down by the sea.
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I’ll wear a purple, velvet gown, stitched through with sparkly thread. A shiny, golden crown of jewels will glitter on my head.
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And rainbow slippers made of silk will dance upon my feet. I’ll be the finest princess that you’ll ever hope to meet.”
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“I guess,” said Annabelle, “that I will be your noble prince.” And though she said she didn’t mind, her words did not convince. She tamed three dragons, then she said, “That’s it! This prince is done. I want to be the princess now. It looks like so much fun.”
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The princess studied Annabelle, whose mouth drooped in dismay. How could he make her smile again? How could he save the day?
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He knew his friend deserved a turn. He knew that it was fair. But giving up his title made his heart sink with despair.
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“I know!” said Princess Benjamin.
Two princesses means twice the fun.
“I’ll tell you what we’ll do.
We’ll try it and you’ll see.
We’ll both be princesses. Why not?
From now on, you’ll be Princess A
Who says there can’t be two?
and I’ll be Princess B.”
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Annabelle looked at Benjamin and felt her heart expand. “There’s room for both of us to be the fairest in the land!”
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The two friends dressed up joyfully in matching princess gowns, and on their heads, of course they wore two matching princess crowns.
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They rode in an enchanted coach until they reached the sea, then built a castle in the sand that rang with gaiety.
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The princesses had so much fun, they had themselves a ball. Soon other members of the court would join them in the hall.
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They danced all night with such delight, the party was quite grand. It’s always best when every guest’s the Fairest in the Land!
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