The Duchess of Whimsy

de Seve, R. (2009). The Duchess of whimsy. New

York: Philomel.

Readers who are out of high school or at least middle school will identify with this sweet picture book.  The Duchess of Whimsy, is a really busy noblewoman who must plan a dinner party.  She is caught up in the how's and why's and doesn't have time for "the little people"---those people who aren't cool or powerful or beautiful.  These are the people that others don't have time for and usually ignore.  Only every now and then do we get the chance or take the opportunity to actually look around.  That is what happens to the Duchess.  This fellow who is not cool or part of the "in" crowd, finally gets the attention of the Duchess (whom he has admired for some time but from whom can't even get the time of day!).  He doesn't do it by being flashy or pouting or doing something dramatic.  He simply steps out of the hustle and bustle that is characteristic of the life of a cool or powerful person.  When the Duchess sees what he is doing (or not doing, in this case), she finally sees HIM.  Readers will enjoy this story and, likely, will see something in common with their own lives and experiences.  The pictures aren't hard on the eyes either!