BRUSHALOT

Kids learn about the Tooth Fairy, Prince Plaque, and brave Sir Brushalot in Wilms’ picture book.

When Nicholas isn’t sure about giving up his baby tooth for the Tooth Fairy, his mother tells him and his two siblings the story of Pearly White City, home of the Tooth Fairy and the Tooth-Making Factory. There, citizens create grown-up teeth that grow into the holes that baby teeth leave behind. The city’s greatest enemy is Prince Plaque, whose evil wizards tempt children with sugar potions. He and his Tartar Troopers attack the city three times daily only to be foiled by Sir Brushalot, the Tooth Fairy’s brother and the leader of the Knights of Floss. At story’s end, the children brush and floss to fight Prince Plaque. The ongoing battle between plaque and brushing has never been so much fun, and Wilms’ characters make delightful additions to the traditional Tooth Fairy legend. The main characters in Starikova-Abud’s (I’m Awesome Because, 2014) bright illustrations all appear to be white, but the smiling people of Pearly White City are more diverse; young readers will gravitate toward the colorful images and charming cast. (The book may be purchased as part of a kit that contains toothbrushes and a plush doll of Den-Tist, Sir Brushalot’s horse.)

A funny, enjoyable fairy tale and hygiene guide.