Written by Stuart Gibb, Illustrated by Stacy Curtis
Once Upon a Time…the time being the medieval time period in Europe, with castles and dragons, a princess in distress and a hero who rescues her…only the hero is not a handsome courageous prince, rather a poor, skinny, underprivileged peasant named Tim. This is Tim’s story as he embarks on a quest to save the kidnapped princess. Why? Not because he’s trying to win her love, but because a heroic act like rescuing a princess could earn him knighthood, which is the only chance he has to improve his social station.
Joining him in his adventure is Belinda, a peasant girl masquerading as a boy with the desire to also gain knighthood, which would change her destiny from becoming either a peasant’s housewife or worse, the village witch. They are accompanied by a cocky but cowardly prince, his incompetent wizard, and the village idiot. This motley mix of characters add to the humor of this quirky quest. Author Stuart Gibbs does not disappoint in creating an unpredictable storyline to his new, illustrated series (black and white drawings.) Comical and educationally entertaining, I would predict this book will be popular among young readers. Two thumbs up for Tim! I’m already looking forward to the sequel.
Reviewed by Kristine Kramer, Librarian, Lincoln Elementary
Review shared in August 2023
Rating: ★★★★★ (5 stars)
Interest Level: Grades 2-6
Once Upon A Tim
Written by Stuart Gibb, Illustrated by Stacy Curtis
Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
155 pages
Release Date: March 1, 2022
ISBN: 9781534499256
A review copy was provided by the publisher.
