PRETTY IN PURPLE

Bower uses the concept of auras to explore emotions in this illustrated children’s book.

A girl named Sophie wakes up on her seventh birthday to find a “magical and friendly” fairylike figure at the end of her bed. The sprite introduces herself as Zoe, Sophie’s spirit guide. Zoe explains that she has always watched over Sophie and guided her decisions; now, Sophie has been gifted “second sight,” allowing her to see Zoe and learn from her. When Sophie starts second grade at a new school, she is concerned about making new friends. Zoe reminds her that “true friends will see the beauty that shines from within you, just like I do.” Sophie feels inferior to another new student, Jessica, whom Sophie believes is more attractive. However, Jessica soon loses popularity with her classmates after some name-calling and cheating during a dodgeball game. When Sophie tries to talk to Jessica about her behavior, Jessica insults Sophie and leaves her in tears. Zoe appears and teaches Sophie about auras, the invisible energy that reflects a person’s feelings. Sophie’s aura is the “brightest, clearest” purple, while Jessica’s is a “dull gray.” Zoe informs Sophie that auras can change when someone is kind and generous. Sophie again approaches Jessica and tells her that it’s not outward beauty but kindness that attracts friends. As they talk, Jessica’s aura turns blue. Over time, as Jessica acts kindly towards others, her aura changes to purple. Zoe concludes, “It doesn’t matter how you shine on the outside, but rather what shines from the inside.” Bower’s storytelling effectively combines the relatable challenges of starting a new school and making friends with the mystical elements of a spirit guide and aura reading—using the visual aspect of auras is a unique way to help children understand and communicate about emotions. Mo’s digital artwork uses soft, glowing hues to enhance the otherworldly nature of the story, while clear, recognizable facial expressions clue readers to the characters’ emotions. However, Jessica’s rapid transformation sets unrealistic expectations for behavioral change.

A heartwarming lesson about kindness, empathy, and self-worth that rushes toward resolution.