DitzAbled Princess: A Comical Diary Inspired by Real Life

HOME SCHOOL BOOK REVIEW
Book: DitzAbled Princess: A Comical Diary Inspired by Real Life
Author: Jewel Kats
Illustrator: Katarina Andriopoulos
Publisher: Marvelous Spirit Press, 2013
ISBN-13: 978-1-61599-135-3 (Hardcover)
ISBN-13: 978-1-61599-183-9 (Paperback)
ISBN-13: 978-1-61599-184-6 (eBook)
Related websites: http://www.jewelkats.com (author), http://www.katarinasportfolio.com (illustrator), http://ditzabledprincess.com (book), http://www.LHPress.com (publisher)
Language level: 1
(1=nothing objectionable; 2=common euphemisms and/or childish slang terms; 3=some cursing or profanity; 4=a lot of cursing or profanity; 5=obscenity and/or vulgarity)
Reading level: Teens and adults (ages 15 and up)
Rating: **** 4 stars (GOOD)
Reviewed by Wayne S. Walker
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Kats, Jewel. DitzAbled Princess: A Comical Diary Inspired by Real Life (published in 2013 by Marvelous Spirit Press, an imprint of Loving Healing Press, 5145 Pontiac Trail, Ann Arbor, MI 48105). Although I went through a short comic-book phase as a boy, it didn’t last very long, and now I don’t really care to read or review “graphic novels” which are just a fancy kind of comic book. However, when I was asked if I would consider reviewing DitzAbled Princess by Jewel Kats, I readily agreed because I have read and reviewed other books by this author which have been quite good. Kats is a former teen runaway who suffers with a physical disability which results from never-ending bowel issues but has authored seven books and for six years penned a syndicated advice column for teens.

Kats has also written a reality-series comic strip based on her own life, from which I assume this book is taken. In it, she discusses and pictures her relationships with her mom, a saleslady by day and a nagging mother by night; her hubby, who is cheap but is her biggest fan; her baby sister, a recent university graduate and new accountant; her middle sister, who holds as high power corporate position; her dad, a former electrical engineer and semi-retired real estate agent; and her BFF (best friend forever), who recently moved to New York City. Someone described the gook as a “Graphic Novel (a comic strip book for kids).” However, while there’s nothing really objectionable in it, the nature of the subject matter just seems to me to be more suitable for teens and adults.

Jewel’s biggest weakness is her pet dogs, Snowie and Dolly. Naughty Snowie is said to “pee” wherever he fancies, including on Dolly’s face. Also, in one panel, Jewel visits a psychic. But the positive benefit of the book is that it portrays a person who has overcome numerous problems to become a great success and whose physical disability doesn’t dampen her spirits. All of us need to remember that we are more than just what others can see on the outside. I understand that graphic novels are really popular with many kids nowadays. With Jewel’s hot pink elbow crutch, the kind of humor in this women’s comic book would probably appeal most to teen girls who enjoy reading about a modern-day Diva and Princess who loves to shop as much she loves to write.