Where to Start Reading Barbara Jean Hicks
Barbara Jean Hicks has had a fascinating two-act career. In the 1990s, she wrote contemporary romance novels, many of which were published under the popular Palisades Pure Romance imprint. Later, she transitioned fully into children's literature, earning acclaim as the self-proclaimed "Story Queen." Because her works span two completely different genres and target audiences, your starting point depends entirely on what you are looking to read:
- For Contemporary Romance Readers: Start with An Unlikely Prince (1998), the first book in her Once Upon a Dream trilogy. This series is set in the fictional, quirky town of Pilchuck, Washington, and captures her signature lighthearted, romantic-comedy tone.
- For Young Readers and Parents: Start with Jitterbug Jam: A Monster Tale (2004). This award-winning picture book beautifully subverts the "monster under the bed" trope and serves as her grand debut in children's publishing. Another fantastic starting option is the highly popular Monsters Don't Eat Broccoli (2009).
- For Disney Fans: Start with Frozen: A Sister More Like Me (2013). Commissioned directly by Disney, this picture book fleshes out the relationship between Elsa and Anna and became a major national bestseller.
What to Know Before You Start
Before diving into Hicks's books, there are a few important contexts to keep in mind regarding her evolution as a writer:
The Pivot from Romance to Children's Books
Hicks began her career writing adult contemporary romances and novellas. However, after receiving a snarky online review that described one of her romantic comedies as "silly," she had an epiphany: she realized that "silly" is a compliment in children's literature. This prompted her to pivot to writing picture books, which she has frequently described as her true calling. As a result, her adult romance bibliography concludes around the year 2000, and her focus from 2004 onward is exclusively on children's books.
Standalone Nature of the Books
Almost all of Barbara Jean Hicks's romance novels and children's books are designed to stand alone. Even within her Once Upon a Dream romance series, each book features a different central couple and a self-contained story arc, meaning they can be enjoyed individually without strict adherence to publication order. Her children's picture books are entirely independent of one another, with the exception of her two Disney tie-ins which share the broader Frozen universe.
Once Upon a Dream Romance Series
The Once Upon a Dream series represents Hicks's most structured romance project. Set in the whimsical fictional town of Pilchuck, Washington, these novels follow relatable protagonists finding love in unexpected places. While they can be read out of sequence, reading them in order of publication allows you to appreciate recurring settings and the small-town atmosphere.
1. An Unlikely Prince (1998)
The series opens with the story of a high-school English teacher and a quirky, romance-wary heroine. It introduces readers to the fictional town of Pilchuck and establishes the light, comedic tone that defines the trilogy.
2. All That Glitters (1999)
The second installment continues the small-town charm, focusing on themes of inner beauty, trust, and overcoming past assumptions in a close-knit community setting.
3. Loves Me, Loves Me Not (2000)
The final book in the trilogy focuses on a local florist who gets tangled up in a series of comedic misunderstandings, wrapping up the Pilchuck-based stories with a warm, satisfying conclusion.
Standalone Romance Novels & Anthologies
During the mid-to-late 1990s, Hicks contributed to the Palisades romance line from Multnomah Publishers. These books are clean, contemporary romances that focus on family, emotional healing, and faith. They do not share continuity and can be read in any order.
- Coming Home (1996): A heartfelt romance focusing on homecoming, reconciliation, and second chances.
- Snow Swan (1997): Set against the backdrop of the Pacific Northwest, this novel explores personal healing, faith, and unexpected romance.
- China Doll (1998): A touching story dealing with family legacy, identity, and finding love across cultural and personal barriers.
- Unlikely Angels (1999): A romance anthology featuring short stories by Hicks alongside other contemporary romance authors, focusing on themes of unexpected love and guidance.
Children's Picture Books
Hicks's children's bibliography is characterized by playful rhyming, vibrant vocabulary, and themes of self-acceptance. They are listed below in order of publication, which is the recommended reading path to follow her stylistic development.
1. Jitterbug Jam: A Monster Tale (2004)
Hicks's debut children's book tells the story of Bobo, a young monster who is absolutely terrified of the pink-skinned "boy monster" he suspects is hiding under his bed. Illustrated by Alexis Deacon, this clever story won a 2006 ALSC Notable Children's Book designation and remains a classroom favorite.
2. I Like Black And White (2005) & I Like Colors (2006)
These early-concept board books utilize simple, rhythmic text and high-contrast imagery designed to capture the attention of infants and toddlers, introducing them to visual concepts and basic color theory.
3. The Secret Life of Walter Kitty (2007)
This humorous tale follows a seemingly ordinary housecat named Walter who imagines himself as a fierce, wide-roaming outdoor adventurer named Fang. It is a delightful celebration of imagination and pets.
4. Monsters Don't Eat Broccoli (2009)
One of Hicks's most famous standalone children's books, this rhyming picture book features a group of colorful monsters who insist they do not eat broccoli—only to happily devour trees, which look suspiciously like the green vegetable. It is widely used by parents and educators to encourage healthy eating habits.
5. Disney's Frozen: A Sister More Like Me (2013)
Commissioned by Disney to accompany the release of the hit film Frozen, this rhyming picture book explores the differences and deep sisterly bond between Elsa and Anna. It highlights how their unique personalities complement each other, offering a deeper look into their relationship than what is shown in the movie.
6. Disney's Frozen: An Amazing Snowman (2014)
Following the success of her first Disney tie-in, Hicks penned this companion picture book focusing on Olaf, the beloved, sun-loving snowman. It captures his whimsical perspective on the world and his appreciation for friendship.
7. Once Upon a Parsnip (2016)
Co-authored with Kevin R. Wood, this clever fairy-tale mash-up reimagines classic characters like Little Red Riding Hood and the Big Bad Wolf. Set in a whimsical organic market, the book uses playful verse to introduce children to healthy eating, vegetables, and cooperation.