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This book is a great addition to any child's catalogue. It is simplistic enough for children to grasp and yet touches on a familiar subject that both children and adults (both male and female) could learn something from. It's straightforward, to the point and yet provokes thoughts in a gentle way, opening the door for family bonding with further discussion of the topic after the book has been read. It is cleverly told with a bit of humor thrown in which is a nice surprise in my opinion. The illustrations are vibrant and keep your eyes wandering from page to page.

And just a side note to the critical eye out there who may assume that this is just another way for Madonna to make a little money off of the little tikes... all the proceeds of the book are being donated to children's charities. A gem of a purchase that I'd recommend to anyone possibly interested!!

This a classic story of friendship that was cleverly written by Madonna.
I think this is a must-read for children of all ages!!!!!!
The story is ultimately about judgment. And how often times we do judge others without really knowing anything about them. I think that is a great message to teach our youth. Perhaps, we adults need to be reminded as well.
Most of the reviews for this book are positive contrary to what you may read on here.
I purchased the book even though I was skeptical. I could help but think, "What does Madonna know about writing children's books?" I was pleasantly surprised.
This truly is a charming story with wonderful illustrations.
Furthermore, Madonna does not profit from sales of this book. All profit goes to a children's charity.

Having read hundreds of children's books over the years, I was willing to keep an open mind. Against my better judgement (and the hundreds of reviews warning me not to), I still went ahead and purchased this book. What a mistake! I must admit, the illustrations are beautiful and very engaging and I was almost able to forgive the words on the page... Almost.

Madonna's writing is patronising and, quite frankly, rude! I was faced with the question of "Why is she mad at me? I didn't ask that!" when Madonna's writing informed my child to "Stop interupting (her)". Honestly, sometimes that style of writing can be done fantastically well and with humour, but Madonna's "wit" and "style" are just rude. There was more than one occasion when we put the book down and considered not reading any more. Unfortunately, we kept going. What a waste of 48-pages.

As for the story, it is basically the simple notion that you shouldn't judge people by their appearances and that even 'perfect' people have problems. A good lesson, but I think it was lost in the last few pages when the girls (named the English Roses) made friends with Binah and they ALL became beautiful and popular and without problems. Hrm.

I give it 2 stars - mainly for the illustrations. They really are gorgeous and they alone are worth the money. The story, however, isn't worth a cent. I don't recommend it at all. Hopefully Madonna's next efforts at writing will be more encouraging!