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“A little girl’s favorite day of the year poses some unique challenges, but she handles it with the grace of a queen…After helping Grandma cook Caribbean treats and sitting with Mommy to have festive and colorful beads put in her hair, Kayla dons the glittery outfit that she’ll be rocking today as a Carnival queen…But maybe they’re moving too fast too soon—Kayla slips and rips and pops out of her costume…But Granny reminds young Kayla—and readers—that the real purpose of the festivities isn’t costumes, but rather a connection to the ancestors, a global celebration of pan-African heritage, as Williams-Harry notes in her backmatter.”

—Kirkus Reviews

“Celebrate the color and rhythm of Carnival! When Kayla, a young Carnival dancer, rips her dress moments before her performance, her family does their best to fix it . . . but it’s not enough. Will the community of dancers be able to save the day? …Small details in the book highlight Caribbean culture in subtle ways, such as textiles and costumes. At the core of the story is the strong sense of community and Carnival’s place in history.”

—Booklist

Carnival Queen

Written by Donette Williams-Harry
Illustrated by Amélie-Anne Calmo
Published by Tiger Tales

It’s Carnival day, and Kayla is SO excited! She helps Granny cook, and she waits patiently as Mommy puts colorful beads in her hair. But when Kayla gets dressed in her glittery, colorful costume and starts to dance around the house, she accidentally rips the material. Mommy and Granny try to fix it, but it’s still not quite right. At the celebration, Kayla asks for help from the other mas bands (celebrants in elaborate costumes). This colorful, inspiring celebration of carnival includes back matter on carnival celebrations in different parts of the world.

A joyful celebration of community, courage, ancestry, and the most vibrant event of the year! With back matter introducing traditional holiday celebrations all around the world.

Primary ISBN: 9781664300606
Publication Date: January 2026
Available As: Hardcover, eBook
Picture Book, Age 03 or older

Community Represented:

Themes: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Setting: England (London)

Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: 1st Generation

Book Creator(s) Connection to the Community Represented: Own Voices/Lived Experience

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Educator Guide

Source: Tiger Tales