*Shortlisted

Review by Charlie, St. Peter’s CE Primary School, Heysham
I really enjoyed reading this book, particularly the ending because it wasn’t what I expected, it was quite sad but the right thing to do.

My favourite character was Beatrix because she was kind to Genda the rhinoceros. I liked how she cared for him so much and spent every night with him. I would definitely recommend this book to my friends as there are parts of it that I know they would enjoy. For example, when the rhinoceros and the elephant look at each other and decide not to fight.

After the story, there is a part called ‘Another Story…’ I found this interesting because it told me facts about different paintings and stone work around the world relating to rhinoceroses. For example, did you know that if you visited the Papal Palace in the Vatican and look up, you can see Raphael’s The Creation of the Animals with the rhinoceros and the elephant standing peacefully as they might have done over 500 years ago in India? I would like to go and see that one day.

Review by Harper, Dallas Road Community Primary school, Lancaster
I enjoyed reading the book and found it very interesting as I don't know anything about the year 1515. My favourite character was Genda the rhinoceros because he was unusual to have as a gift. I found some of the words difficult to pronounce, especially the names of the royal people. I found the pictures helpful, and they made the book stand out to me due to the colours used and the very fine details on the kings and queens outfits. I loved the outfits, it made me think this is how they dressed in the olden days. I thought the plot was funny and it made me laugh. I would recommend this book to other pupils.

Review by Anisa, Dixons Allerton Academy Bradford
I found it interesting because it was set a long time ago and in India. I found Princess Beatrix interesting because I thought all princesses were still ruled by their Kings and Queens/parents but Beatrix is an unruly princess. I liked all the characters because they were all kind to each other but not some of them. I learnt that you should always be kind to people, even animals and instead of killing animals, you keep them alive so we can have more animals. I loved the relationship between Beatrix and Genda because they take care of each other. I would recommend it.