All the Ice Cream in the Land

A royal misunderstanding yields an over-the-top result in Kastner’s goofy medieval tale, which features a classic summertime treat. With a kingdom dedicated to anticipating her every need, Princess Roselyn the Reticent “never had to say a word.” In response to her grumbling stomach, the palace intuits that she desires ice cream. The princess tries to clarify, but it’s decided she must want “ALL THE ICE CREAM IN THE LAND!” From there, humorous storytelling proceeds stepwise as laborers are put into service. Potters get to work on a new “colossal bowl,” while metalsmiths melt fine silver for a proportionate spoon. Even wizards get in on the action, enlarging the princess herself, which of course necessitates new clothing, a larger teddy bear, and more. Set against white backdrops, acrylic gouache, pencil, and ink sketches of comparatively antlike workers contrast with the outsize plot developments as the royal’s revelation of her true wish allows the frozen treat to become a community affair. It’s a supersize story starting with a small miscommunication that yields an abundance of laughs. Characters are portrayed with various skin tones. Ages 4–8. (May)