Queen of the Mountain is a beautifully woven children’s book about an unlikely friendship between a young mountain girl, Vicky, and a grieving Queen Victoria. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Swiss Alps, the story follows Vicky as she observes and eventually befriends the mysterious countess who visits her village. Through small acts of kindness and honest conversations, the two form a bond that transcends class and circumstance, ultimately revealing that the so-called countess is actually Queen Victoria.

What struck me most was the simplicity and warmth of Erzinger’s writing. The story unfolds like a gentle breeze—quiet but powerful. Vicky’s innocence and curiosity make her an endearing protagonist, and her small yet thoughtful gestures, like leaving a bouquet of flowers for the countess, carry so much weight. Erzinger doesn’t overcomplicate emotions. When Vicky asks the queen why she is sad and openly shares her own loss, the moment is raw and real. There’s no grand speech or overly dramatic exchange—just two people, young and old, connecting over shared pain. That restraint makes the emotions hit even harder.

The relationship between Vicky and Queen Victoria is the heart of the book, and their moments together are pure magic. When Vicky sneaks a peek at the queen’s painting, you can see her awe and admiration. Later, when Vicky learns the truth about her friend’s identity, her reaction is heartbreakingly human. She doesn’t care about titles or status, only that their friendship suddenly feels fragile because of the divide between them. It’s a brilliant reflection of how children view the world.

The colorful hand-drawn artwork in Queen of the Mountain is utterly charming and perfectly complements the gentle, heartfelt tone of the story. The soft, expressive illustrations bring the Swiss Alps to life, making the landscape feel both magical and real. The characters, especially Vicky and Queen Victoria, are drawn with warmth and personality. The vibrant colors add a sense of nostalgia, almost like flipping through the pages of a treasured storybook from childhood.

Queen of the Mountain to anyone who enjoys historical fiction kids’ books with an almost fairytale-like quality. Readers who appreciate stories about friendship, loss, and healing will find something truly special here.

Pages: 32 | ASIN : B0DNLSSWHK