King's Equal

In a faraway country, a dying king reluctantly makes the vain Prince Raphael his heir--on one condition. In order to be crowned, Raphael must first marry a woman who is his equal in beauty, intelligence, and wealth. Once he is in charge, Raphael closes the schools and puts everyone to work so he can collect more taxes. Meanwhile, his wise men tremble from their wigs to their boot tips as they fail in one search after another for a woman who will be the new King's equal in every way. And in a far corner of the kingdom, Rosamund--a kind, cheerful farmer's daughter--tends her goats on a mountain. When she visits the palace, even Raphael concedes she is his equal. But what does Rosamund think of Raphael? Newbery Medal-winner Katherine Paterson has crafted a delightfully original fairy tale about true beauty, wisdom, and wealth. Davina Porter's magical narration will enchant listeners of all ages.