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Reviewed by Savannah Aldridge for Readers' Favorite
I Don’t Want to Be Fancy is a delightfully expressive story about the struggle against being forced to conform to social expectations. The narrator shares how she dislikes everything about being “fancy,” from uncomfortable dresses and accessories to delicate nails and hairstyles. However, her hatred of fancy comes from a deep love of being herself and enjoying the freedom of her own style choices and fun. With a lovely narrative by Alice Watkins and vibrant illustrations by Rita Nilson, this book promises to be fun and relatable on multiple levels.
I was pleasantly surprised to find out that Alice Watkins is ten years old, and had written this story to help others understand or relate to her struggles as someone with Sensory Processing Disorder. This makes I Don’t Want to Be Fancy a truly exceptional reading experience - a book written by a kid with other kids in mind. Watkins has certainly achieved her goal. Children with SPD will receive the gift of being seen and understood, especially by someone their age who is living out her dream. Those who have not experienced SPD can still connect with the theme of wanting to be comfortable and present themselves honestly in social situations.
This story is wrapped together neatly by Rita Nilson’s artwork. She skillfully brings Watkins’ vision to life, as evidenced by the presentation of the original children’s illustrations featured in the beginning and ending pages of the book. I love the way she shows the joy and personality of the narrator throughout the story - she brought this sparkling young girl to life for readers! I recommend this book to early solo readers, but I believe its detail, creativity, and heart will win over adults too.
