The Salt Princess (Everlasting Tales)
"The princess's delight quickly turned to sadness. She missed her family and did not want to get married without them. Arsalan told Amal she was the cleverest person he knew. . . .”
The Salt Princess, retold and illustrated by Anoosha Syed, is a visually striking retelling of a Pakistani Cinderella tale. The book is a vibrant, colorful journey, brought to life through predominantly 2-D graphic illustrations. Whether it’s the meticulously tailored gardens of the palace or the swirling patterns that adorn the forest at night, circles and curves dominate Syed’s artwork in representation of the rich artistic traditions of the Indian subcontinent.
The story centers on Princess Amal, a clumsy, sharp-tongued, and precocious young girl who finds herself at odds with her more traditional sisters. Her story begins when her father, much like King Lear, asks his daughters, "How do you love me?" Amal’s answer is misunderstood, leading to her banishment from the kingdom. In fairytale fashion, Amal is rescued from a dangerous night in the forest by a handsome prince from a neighboring kingdom. This encounter sets in motion a series of events that culminate in a heartwarming reunion between father and daughter, as Amal is able to explain the true meaning of her words.
While the illustrations will captivate young readers, they are more representative of animation made for kids than a beautifully illustrated picture book.
The story also feels flat and predictable. It tells more than it shows, turning the prose into a summary that lacks the richness and nuance that brings narratives to life. For example, by telling readers what is happening rather than demonstrating it through their characters’ actions, an author prevents the audience from connecting with the characters and their feelings. The simplicity of the storytelling, while accessible, makes the overall experience feel somewhat distant.
In conclusion, The Salt Princess is a beautiful book in terms of its visuals, and, though it highlights Pakistani culinary dishes that readers will want to try, the story lacks the depth and emotional resonance of a truly engaging fairytale. It is an enjoyable read for younger children, especially those who will appreciate the colorful artwork, but the predictability of the plot and the flat prose may not appeal as much to older readers or those looking for a more intricate tale.