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100 Dresses #1
If the Magic Fits
Inside an enchanted castle, there’s a closet—a closet with one hundred dresses that nobody ever wears. Dresses like those need a good trying-on, and Darling Dimple is just the girl to do it. When she tries on Dress Number Eleven, something unbelievable happens. She transforms into the castle’s Head Scrubber! It turns out that each dress can disguise her as someone else. And Darling is about to have an adventure that calls for a disguise or two…or a hundred.
305 pages, Hardcover
First published October 25, 2016
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November 4, 2016
Final review, first posted on :
In the kingdom of Eliora, eleven year old Darling Dimple is an orphaned servant in Princess Mariposa’s castle, a lowly pot scrubber in the under-cellar of the castle kitchens. She dreams of being a mighty sailor or a great enchantress ― and since she lives in a magic-filled castle built by dragons, surely adventures will come her way! But her daydreams lead to trouble with the castle’s Supreme Scrubstress, who doesn’t take kindly to being splashed with dirty brown dishwater when Darling and her friends are fooling around one day. So when the Wardrobe Mistress comes downstairs looking for a new girl to help press the Princess’s linens, and the Supreme Scrubstress finds out that it’s “hard work that requires close attention,” she gleefully volunteers Darling.
Darling’s new job as Under-presser turns out not to be such a punishment: she’s an upstairs servant rather than a belowstairs one, living in a much nicer room and helping take care of Princess Mariposa’s beautiful things. At first it seems the main problem is that some of the other servant girls play mean-spirited tricks on Darling … but when you have magical mice helping with your problems, it’s not so bad.
Best of all, Darling discovers a closet in Princess Mariposa’s rooms filled with one hundred lovely old princess dresses that magically disguise her as someone else in the kingdom.
But the castle’s magic has something more in mind for Darling than just fun adventures. When she discovers a nefarious plot to betray the Princess and release the stone dragons on the castle’s roof from their enchantment, it will take magic, courage and a little help from some friends to protect the Princess and the kingdom!
Susan Maupin Schmid’s If the Magic Fits is a delightful middle grade fantasy, full of beautiful magical dresses, mythical beasts, and other enchantments, and spiced with a little mystery. The pace is brisk, with Darling quickly propelled from one adventurous outing to the next. Her excursions wearing the magical dresses are always dangerous, since Darling doesn’t have the knowledge or mannerisms of the ladies who she’s disguised as. Darling is an intrepid main character who grows through her experiences, and learns about the importance of loyalty and friends. Even the princess, who is surrounded by princes and noblemen vying for her hand, discovers something about true friendship and forgiveness.
I give If the Magic Fits a strong but qualified recommendation: Most young girls in the 8-14 age range will be enchanted by this fantasy with elegant, magical dresses as one of the main features of its plot. I’m limiting my recommendation of it primarily to that group, along with older readers who delight in children’s fantasies. If you happen to be, or know, a girl who would love the idea of a closet filled with magical dresses and a castle brimming with exciting adventures, If the Magic Fits is just the ticket and won’t disappoint.
In the kingdom of Eliora, eleven year old Darling Dimple is an orphaned servant in Princess Mariposa’s castle, a lowly pot scrubber in the under-cellar of the castle kitchens. She dreams of being a mighty sailor or a great enchantress ― and since she lives in a magic-filled castle built by dragons, surely adventures will come her way! But her daydreams lead to trouble with the castle’s Supreme Scrubstress, who doesn’t take kindly to being splashed with dirty brown dishwater when Darling and her friends are fooling around one day. So when the Wardrobe Mistress comes downstairs looking for a new girl to help press the Princess’s linens, and the Supreme Scrubstress finds out that it’s “hard work that requires close attention,” she gleefully volunteers Darling.
Darling’s new job as Under-presser turns out not to be such a punishment: she’s an upstairs servant rather than a belowstairs one, living in a much nicer room and helping take care of Princess Mariposa’s beautiful things. At first it seems the main problem is that some of the other servant girls play mean-spirited tricks on Darling … but when you have magical mice helping with your problems, it’s not so bad.
Best of all, Darling discovers a closet in Princess Mariposa’s rooms filled with one hundred lovely old princess dresses that magically disguise her as someone else in the kingdom.
But the castle’s magic has something more in mind for Darling than just fun adventures. When she discovers a nefarious plot to betray the Princess and release the stone dragons on the castle’s roof from their enchantment, it will take magic, courage and a little help from some friends to protect the Princess and the kingdom!
Susan Maupin Schmid’s If the Magic Fits is a delightful middle grade fantasy, full of beautiful magical dresses, mythical beasts, and other enchantments, and spiced with a little mystery. The pace is brisk, with Darling quickly propelled from one adventurous outing to the next. Her excursions wearing the magical dresses are always dangerous, since Darling doesn’t have the knowledge or mannerisms of the ladies who she’s disguised as. Darling is an intrepid main character who grows through her experiences, and learns about the importance of loyalty and friends. Even the princess, who is surrounded by princes and noblemen vying for her hand, discovers something about true friendship and forgiveness.
I give If the Magic Fits a strong but qualified recommendation: Most young girls in the 8-14 age range will be enchanted by this fantasy with elegant, magical dresses as one of the main features of its plot. I’m limiting my recommendation of it primarily to that group, along with older readers who delight in children’s fantasies. If you happen to be, or know, a girl who would love the idea of a closet filled with magical dresses and a castle brimming with exciting adventures, If the Magic Fits is just the ticket and won’t disappoint.
August 13, 2020
Do you still remember fairytales you enjoyed when you were young?
If you loved listening about enchanted castles and beautiful princesses, there's a great chance you will love this story.
If the Magic Fits is a brand new fairytale, and it has everything a good fairytale should have: magic, dragons, friendly mouse, beautiful gawns that come to life at times, magical bird, princess, prince and a strong protagonist.
The only thig that this story does not have are witches.
BUT, you know that word that rhymes with the word witch, the one that describes someone's personality?
Yeah, that one!
I'll just say those kind of characters weren't missing.
I wish I could go back in time and give the young myself this book so she could observe every single page of it.
I am sure 10 years old Irena would be in love with this story and it's world.
The story follows 10 years old Darling who, at the very beginning of the story got a new job. She is in charge for ironning Princess's clothes. While living and working in castle, she discoveres the beauty of magic that is presencing in the castle.
In the wardrobe full with old (or outdated) dresses, she decides it wouldn't hurt if she tries one.
What she didn't expect was that the dress will disguise her, give her a whole new look.
Looking as someone else, Darling starts an adventure as a spy who's mission is to save Princess from people who want to use her position and harm the kingdom.
Ever since I heard about 100 Dresses series (back in March) I wanted to read it.
If you didn't know, I am a huge fan of (Fairy Tale Reform School series) and the first book that pops up as a recommendation for it's fans is - you guessed it - If the Magic Fits.
So I would lie if I told you my expectations weren't high.
They were.
As a matter of fact, they were high as enchanted Empire State Building that yet has to be built in Enchantasia.
At first, I found it hard to get into the story. It took me around 40 pages until I started reading it at my normal reading speed.
I blame the fact that this book was written in the style that is similar to the writing style fairytales are written, and as English is not my native language, it took a while until I got used to it.
It also contents words that are not typical for every day life so that had some part too.
Darling was very likeable and admiration worth main character. She is strong, smart and a loyal friend.
The only thing that I could critise is how she acted too mature for 10 years old girl at times.
However, when you take in the picture the fact that she is an orphan since the day she was born, and all she ever did in her life was work, work, work, her acting mature and whise has some logic.
The story itself was very entertining.
I wouldn't mind to see an animated movie based on this book some day (fingers crossed I will)!
This book is the first in the series, but the story it followed is completed, so it could be read as standalone.
I assume that the next book will follow Darling on some other adventure. Judging by If the Magic Fits, I imagine the next book will be a lot of fun and I can't wait to read it.
Although this book would probably be a good read to readers of all age, I think that who will enjoy it the most are girls in age from 9 to 14.
If you loved listening about enchanted castles and beautiful princesses, there's a great chance you will love this story.
If the Magic Fits is a brand new fairytale, and it has everything a good fairytale should have: magic, dragons, friendly mouse, beautiful gawns that come to life at times, magical bird, princess, prince and a strong protagonist.
The only thig that this story does not have are witches.
BUT, you know that word that rhymes with the word witch, the one that describes someone's personality?
Yeah, that one!
I'll just say those kind of characters weren't missing.
I wish I could go back in time and give the young myself this book so she could observe every single page of it.
I am sure 10 years old Irena would be in love with this story and it's world.
The story follows 10 years old Darling who, at the very beginning of the story got a new job. She is in charge for ironning Princess's clothes. While living and working in castle, she discoveres the beauty of magic that is presencing in the castle.
In the wardrobe full with old (or outdated) dresses, she decides it wouldn't hurt if she tries one.
What she didn't expect was that the dress will disguise her, give her a whole new look.
Looking as someone else, Darling starts an adventure as a spy who's mission is to save Princess from people who want to use her position and harm the kingdom.
Ever since I heard about 100 Dresses series (back in March) I wanted to read it.
If you didn't know, I am a huge fan of (Fairy Tale Reform School series) and the first book that pops up as a recommendation for it's fans is - you guessed it - If the Magic Fits.
So I would lie if I told you my expectations weren't high.
They were.
As a matter of fact, they were high as enchanted Empire State Building that yet has to be built in Enchantasia.
At first, I found it hard to get into the story. It took me around 40 pages until I started reading it at my normal reading speed.
I blame the fact that this book was written in the style that is similar to the writing style fairytales are written, and as English is not my native language, it took a while until I got used to it.
It also contents words that are not typical for every day life so that had some part too.
Darling was very likeable and admiration worth main character. She is strong, smart and a loyal friend.
The only thing that I could critise is how she acted too mature for 10 years old girl at times.
However, when you take in the picture the fact that she is an orphan since the day she was born, and all she ever did in her life was work, work, work, her acting mature and whise has some logic.
The story itself was very entertining.
I wouldn't mind to see an animated movie based on this book some day (fingers crossed I will)!
This book is the first in the series, but the story it followed is completed, so it could be read as standalone.
I assume that the next book will follow Darling on some other adventure. Judging by If the Magic Fits, I imagine the next book will be a lot of fun and I can't wait to read it.
Although this book would probably be a good read to readers of all age, I think that who will enjoy it the most are girls in age from 9 to 14.
August 29, 2017
Very cute & fluffy :)
Read
October 17, 2016Mini review:
DNF
I received this E-ARC via the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I was looking forward to reading this. But when I started it I found it to be really silly. Definitely not for me.
Still recommend.
DNF
I received this E-ARC via the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I was looking forward to reading this. But when I started it I found it to be really silly. Definitely not for me.
Still recommend.
April 14, 2016
I got to read this back before it even had a title, but I loved it even then! A fun and absolutely charming story that reminded me of something by Gail Carson Levine or E. D. Baker.
April 22, 2021
I loved this! It felt like a classic fairytale that I was reading for the 1st time. There’s a beautiful castle full of servants & people in “high standing”, there’s a beautiful princess, a villainous plot, dragons(kind of lol), & even a magical mouse. Those things you come to associate w/fairytales-BUT! Its also so original in its own right. There’s a gryphon, a magical canary, 100 magical dresses that each make you look like someone different, & an amazing storyline! Inside this enchanted castle, there’s a closet w/100 dresses that nobody ever wears. Darling Dimple decides she’s just the girl to try them on, since they appear to want her to! When she tries on Dress #11, the unbelievable happens. She transforms into the castle’s Head Scrubber! It turns out that each dress can disguise her as someone else. & Darling is about to have an adventure that calls for a disguise or 2…or a 100. Darling is a scrappy, tough, terrific girl. Her whole backstory, & the more & more we learn about her-had me more & more intrigued by her lol I also found the castle & the dragons backstory so fascinating! I loved the plot also. The mystery of it all, Darling doing detective work of her own in a way, & the motive of the villains-loved it all. All the characters were great-including the mouse, the canary, & I even loved the gryphon(& he has a small part, but I adored him!). A charming, magical adventure. I had such a great time. The twists at the end were great! So excited to continue on w/book 2! Highly recommend! Beautiful cover by Melissa Manwill, & amazing inside illustrations by Lissy Marlin too!💜
August 25, 2016
I received a free copy of this ebook through Netgalley, the author and the publisher in exchange of an honest review.
Darling Dimple works for the Princess as one of her servants. When she stumbles into a closet full of magical dresses, her real adventure begins. Will she be up for the challenge? Read on and find out for yourself.
This was a pretty good YA middle grade fantasy novel about a girl who tries her best and must learn to do what is right. If you enjoy fairytales like this, definitely check this book out for yourself. This book will be available in bookstores and wherever books are sold in October 2016.
Darling Dimple works for the Princess as one of her servants. When she stumbles into a closet full of magical dresses, her real adventure begins. Will she be up for the challenge? Read on and find out for yourself.
This was a pretty good YA middle grade fantasy novel about a girl who tries her best and must learn to do what is right. If you enjoy fairytales like this, definitely check this book out for yourself. This book will be available in bookstores and wherever books are sold in October 2016.
Read
December 5, 20164 stars from Tadiana:
July 3, 2018
This looked like an adorable book! I love everything about the cover, and it was a special treat to have a drawing of a dress at the beginning of each chapter. Darling Dimple (yes, that is actually her name) was a sweet, spunky, and imaginative heroine. I liked her friendships with Roger and Gillian, her love for her adoptive mother Jane, and her loyalty to the princess.
Speaking of the princess, as Darling got to know her, she seemed less spoiled and more complicated. I liked how she was scientifically interested in butterflies and generous to her servants.
The whole mystery was surprisingly complicated, which was cool. I also loved all the details of palace life and how the servants took pride in a job well done. You don’t see that often in fiction with royalty. Another super cool thing was how Darling’s perspective of the servants shifted as the story went on.
The dresses were hilariously feisty. Darling had to argue with a few times. ;) They were capable of moving around while on their hangers, and the author did a good job showing their reactions through that.
Just a note that sometimes the moving dresses and other aspects of the castle could get a little creepy. Also, Darling is in pretty big danger at one point while disguised as an adult. The biggest downer for me was how magical it was. There was a magic word (sometimes used for good, sometimes used for evil) said throughout the book, and it entirely lodged itself in my brain. Not my favorite thing, personally. ;)
Best quote: Someone had to warn her! Someone had to stop them. I looked around, but there wasn’t anyone there but me, Darling Dimple, Under-presser, squeezing [dress] Eighteen to her chest.
Altogether, this was a fun read! I may read on in the series sometime, but it’s not a high priority right now. ;)
Speaking of the princess, as Darling got to know her, she seemed less spoiled and more complicated. I liked how she was scientifically interested in butterflies and generous to her servants.
The whole mystery was surprisingly complicated, which was cool. I also loved all the details of palace life and how the servants took pride in a job well done. You don’t see that often in fiction with royalty. Another super cool thing was how Darling’s perspective of the servants shifted as the story went on.
The dresses were hilariously feisty. Darling had to argue with a few times. ;) They were capable of moving around while on their hangers, and the author did a good job showing their reactions through that.
Just a note that sometimes the moving dresses and other aspects of the castle could get a little creepy. Also, Darling is in pretty big danger at one point while disguised as an adult. The biggest downer for me was how magical it was. There was a magic word (sometimes used for good, sometimes used for evil) said throughout the book, and it entirely lodged itself in my brain. Not my favorite thing, personally. ;)
Best quote: Someone had to warn her! Someone had to stop them. I looked around, but there wasn’t anyone there but me, Darling Dimple, Under-presser, squeezing [dress] Eighteen to her chest.
Altogether, this was a fun read! I may read on in the series sometime, but it’s not a high priority right now. ;)
Shelved as 'gave-up'
March 16, 2017DNF @ 30%
At first I was drawn to this book because of the amazing cover. The blurb sounded really interesting too and I do enjoy childrens books from time to time.
I found it really difficult getting into the story and for a children's book I found it really confusing. The book was very different from what I expected and I just couldn't warm up with the story. I found it immensely boring and dragging.
I couldn't connect with the little girl Darling and some developments were rather ridiculous and predictable.
I can see why people might enjoy this book but I have to say that it just wasn't mine. I am not going to rate this book.
At first I was drawn to this book because of the amazing cover. The blurb sounded really interesting too and I do enjoy childrens books from time to time.
I found it really difficult getting into the story and for a children's book I found it really confusing. The book was very different from what I expected and I just couldn't warm up with the story. I found it immensely boring and dragging.
I couldn't connect with the little girl Darling and some developments were rather ridiculous and predictable.
I can see why people might enjoy this book but I have to say that it just wasn't mine. I am not going to rate this book.
December 25, 2019
WHY IS THIS BOOK NOT MORE WELL KNOWN?
I loved everything about this book: the writing, the story, the characters. I should say that this genre is one that I like (middle-grade fantasy) and if you don't like stories about scrappy little eleven-year-old girls meddling with magical elements, this may not be the story for you. HOWEVER—if you, like me, enjoy a good fairytale—I highly recommend this book. It is a quick and delightful read.
I'm giving it to my ten-year-old daughter for Christmas. She was a fan of The Girl Who Drank the Moon, so I know she will love it.
I loved everything about this book: the writing, the story, the characters. I should say that this genre is one that I like (middle-grade fantasy) and if you don't like stories about scrappy little eleven-year-old girls meddling with magical elements, this may not be the story for you. HOWEVER—if you, like me, enjoy a good fairytale—I highly recommend this book. It is a quick and delightful read.
I'm giving it to my ten-year-old daughter for Christmas. She was a fan of The Girl Who Drank the Moon, so I know she will love it.
November 24, 2016
*An ARC of this book was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
It seems that I am in the minority of early readers for this book, as I didn't really like this one. There was nothing especially wrong with it, though it did have a few issues, but it didn't hold my interest (it took me over two months to read this!) and it was pretty vanilla, honestly.
Some of the actual issues I had with this book is that the magic is really ill-explained. And the dresses...why do they change Darling into they change her into? Is each dress a specific person? And if so, how is that person chosen?
Also, there were a lot of predictable plot points throughout. The sunburst emblem is actually supposed to be a mystery??
The writing was nothing spectacular, and I honestly was indifferent about all the characters, except Princess Mariposa, whom was practically worthless, as far as the story goes.
I guess I can't say if I would have liked this book as a young girl, but for me, it didn't work very well as an older reader.
It seems that I am in the minority of early readers for this book, as I didn't really like this one. There was nothing especially wrong with it, though it did have a few issues, but it didn't hold my interest (it took me over two months to read this!) and it was pretty vanilla, honestly.
Some of the actual issues I had with this book is that the magic is really ill-explained. And the dresses...why do they change Darling into they change her into? Is each dress a specific person? And if so, how is that person chosen?
Also, there were a lot of predictable plot points throughout. The sunburst emblem is actually supposed to be a mystery??
The writing was nothing spectacular, and I honestly was indifferent about all the characters, except Princess Mariposa, whom was practically worthless, as far as the story goes.
I guess I can't say if I would have liked this book as a young girl, but for me, it didn't work very well as an older reader.
December 17, 2018
I liked this book. It was cute and middle grade, which is a change from the normal YA/new adult fantasy me. It was a unique enough story, and I liked the little hints at romance for the future. It was paced all right, and I'm curious about the world. If I can find the next book at the library, I will read it. 3.5 stars.
August 18, 2021
I love this book!!
June 6, 2018
Darling fairy tale. Wish this had been around while I was growing up but so glad my kids can read and enjoy now.
January 6, 2018
I enjoyed this book a lot. It is so fun and creative. All you need to know is that there is someone called the "Head Scrubstress" and a closet full of dresses that make you look like someone else when worn. If that doesn't make you want to read it, I don't know what will.
But my favorite thing about this book is that my super picky nine-year-old loved it. This is a girl who will walk into a library and complain that there's nothing to read, so the facts that she (1) would even deign to read it, and (2) love it, are very impressive to me. We're looking forward to getting the second book from the library soon!
But my favorite thing about this book is that my super picky nine-year-old loved it. This is a girl who will walk into a library and complain that there's nothing to read, so the facts that she (1) would even deign to read it, and (2) love it, are very impressive to me. We're looking forward to getting the second book from the library soon!
December 2, 2020
This book is a delight and has everything the girly side of me enjoys: dresses and jewels, princesses, castles, housework, etc. I love the inclusion of magical creatures like the canary, gryphon at the end (love him and his dialogue), and Iago, not to mention the menacing dragons.
The pacing in this book is perfect. Little by little secrets and mysteries are revealed and are mingled with Darling's personal struggles in her new job. The only part I thought could be different is the ending, which seems too short. I would have liked a little more closure and summary--perhaps the princess thanking Darling for her services, and didn't Darling need to explain about how she discovered Baltazar's deception and plot? Speaking of Baltazar, I was confused by how quickly the princess' attitude toward him changes. One moment she can't stand him, then the next she's smitten. I thought at first she was hypnotized or something, but she really was in love, so there's a disconnect there.
The only other issue I had was with Lindy and Cherice. They seem too similar--sometimes nice, sometimes snappy. I think they needed to be a bit more distinct.
But--just the kind of book I love!
The pacing in this book is perfect. Little by little secrets and mysteries are revealed and are mingled with Darling's personal struggles in her new job. The only part I thought could be different is the ending, which seems too short. I would have liked a little more closure and summary--perhaps the princess thanking Darling for her services, and didn't Darling need to explain about how she discovered Baltazar's deception and plot? Speaking of Baltazar, I was confused by how quickly the princess' attitude toward him changes. One moment she can't stand him, then the next she's smitten. I thought at first she was hypnotized or something, but she really was in love, so there's a disconnect there.
The only other issue I had was with Lindy and Cherice. They seem too similar--sometimes nice, sometimes snappy. I think they needed to be a bit more distinct.
But--just the kind of book I love!
April 21, 2017
Completely charming and fun. Darling is a orphaned servant in Princess Mariposa's castle who stumbles upon a closet full of magic dresses that transform her appearance into different people. The princess is wooed by several suitors, but can't seem to pick. Then Darling overhears a plot by the most favored prince to capture the princess's heart and use her to unlock the magic restraining the castle's dragons. So, with the help of the dresses, Darling assigns herself the job of saving the princess and the kingdom.
The story is exciting and well-crafted. I was tickled to see the author borrowed names of her fellow SCBWI member and put them in the story (Sarvinder!). I can't wait to see what Darling's next adventure will be.
The story is exciting and well-crafted. I was tickled to see the author borrowed names of her fellow SCBWI member and put them in the story (Sarvinder!). I can't wait to see what Darling's next adventure will be.
April 23, 2018
This book was pretty adorable. A simple dishwasher makes her way through the castle ranks to become a "under-presser" to the princess. Along the way she comes across a magic canary, magic dresses, and a plot to destroy a kingdom. With the help of a mouse named Iago, 100 dresses, and a singing bird, Darling must find a way to prevent the destruction of her beloved kingdom.
It starts off a bit slow, but manages to quickly redeem itself about a third of the way in. I was able to quickly guess who was the cloaked conspirator, which sucked, but the author made it pretty obvious. At least to me. I will definitely be continuing the series though.
It starts off a bit slow, but manages to quickly redeem itself about a third of the way in. I was able to quickly guess who was the cloaked conspirator, which sucked, but the author made it pretty obvious. At least to me. I will definitely be continuing the series though.
February 6, 2023
A very cute middle grade fantasy with a spunky heroine.
Likes:
•Darling. She was feisty, but also knew to keep quiet. I liked her runaway imagination. It reminded me of myself when I was younger.
•Princess Mariposa. I thought she'd be mean or something, but she was precious. I loved the way she was kind to Darling. (I like her enough to give her a pass on the name.)
•Magic dresses. Enough said.
•A bit of King Thrushbeard elements? I'm not sure, but Princess Mariposa and her many suitors gave me those vibes.
If you're looking for a sweet, magic read, this is perfect.
Likes:
•Darling. She was feisty, but also knew to keep quiet. I liked her runaway imagination. It reminded me of myself when I was younger.
•Princess Mariposa. I thought she'd be mean or something, but she was precious. I loved the way she was kind to Darling. (I like her enough to give her a pass on the name.)
•Magic dresses. Enough said.
•A bit of King Thrushbeard elements? I'm not sure, but Princess Mariposa and her many suitors gave me those vibes.
If you're looking for a sweet, magic read, this is perfect.
January 15, 2025
In a word : Adorable.
This is such a cute book! The plot feels just like a fairytale, but it's so unique from any other! The story is simply lovely. But what really has me impressed is the writing style. In this book sentences sparkle! It's brilliant!
This is such a cute book! The plot feels just like a fairytale, but it's so unique from any other! The story is simply lovely. But what really has me impressed is the writing style. In this book sentences sparkle! It's brilliant!
March 7, 2017
If the Magic Fits has many of the fairy tale components that I enjoy, a beautiful princess, magical castle, a helpful white mouse, and dragons. Although in this case, the dragons have been encased in stone and are for the moment secure in the castle spire. I really liked the premise of the magical dresses being able to disguise Darling, but somehow still have questions about the magic. It's the canary that selects which of the hundred dresses that Darling tries on and then the dress transforms her into someone from the castle, but how and why she turns into that particular person I'm not sure. It's also interesting how the dresses seem to have a mind of their own once Darling is wearing them, they grab at her ankles and "extend their sleeves to shake hands." While Darling is wearing these dresses, she does retain her own personality and an eagerness to help the princess. She also works really hard at trying to figure out what to do. She's not perfect and makes mistakes, but her heart always seems to be in the right place. At the beginning of each chapter, there is a drawing of one of the dresses and I really enjoyed the detailed descriptions of each of the dresses designs. I guess it speaks to the younger girl in me who enjoyed playing dress up with her Barbie's. There's also somewhat of a mystery as to who is helping Prince Baltazar, with lingering questions about Darling's father who was lost at sea and a special family heirloom. The second book, Ghost of a Chance has a planned release for July and looks promising as well.
February 12, 2018
A quick funny fairy tale story. I would go back to this series but have give it some time.
June 14, 2018
Cutesy elementary reading, but not bad.
April 6, 2019
1.5 Stars
November 11, 2021
My Daughter wanted me to read this one, which I was happy to do because I love Susan Maupin Schmid.
June 10, 2023
4.5⭐️
October 26, 2018
This was one of the best books I've ever read!
June 8, 2021
This was a fun little fairy tale. I loved following Darling as she solved a mystery and tried to save her kingdom. It was a fun story with the perfect amount of magic.
September 18, 2017
A new sort of fairytale where a servant girl, Darling Dimple, finds a closet of magical dresses. The dresses allow Darling to become different people when she puts them on and when she realizes that the princess she serves may be in trouble she knows she has to take action. Complete with maigcal animals, castles, beautiful dresses, and dragons, this series will appeal to fairytale enthusiasts.
Good for ages 9 and up.
Good for ages 9 and up.
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