Mint is a young girl who also happens to be the princess of the world of dreams and magic. The natural environment of her world is only a reflection of the dreams of the people on Earth. It is now in danger as people lose faith in their dreams and let darkness enter their hearts; this is causing the environment of Mint's world to wither and die.
On her 12th. birthday, after a gala celebration with her father the King and her mother Queen Lime, she agrees to go to the world of humans to try to preserve people's hopes and dreams, and to prove that she has the qualities necessary to be a wise ruler. Her father arranges for her to stay with his sister, Mint's Aunt Herb, who runs a gift shop on Earth called "Happy Shop". Mint is also allowed to choose two best friends who will share the secret of her true identity. She chooses a young boy named Pamuru and a young girl named Nahtsu ("Summer") - they have quite a time keeping her secret from another little boy in the neighborhood named Tact (he's very misnamed, because he is anything but tactful!) She chooses Pamuru and Nahtsu because they help her find her Aunt Herb after she arrives on Earth - her father had forgotten to give her the address! Her pet parrot Ralph goes with her as her mascot and to try to keep her out of trouble (although he seems much more interested in sweets than anything else).
This is a rather typical majoko (or magical girl) type of story. It has very good character designs, and very nice artwork. The music matches the cheerful mood of the show, which is also enhanced by the bright color palette used for the charas and scenery. It also has some of the most unusual names for characters that I've ever seen (as you can probably already tell!) The animation quality is typical of this genre at the time it was broadcast (1990) - good, but nothing spectacular.
Mint is similar to other majokos like Minky Momo in that she can transform into whatever profession she wishes (a cowgirl, a nanny, a news reporter, etc.) Her magic is more versatile than that, though; she can also do various other enchantments. For example, in one episode she enchants a pair of glasses to see into a racoon's memory; in another, she brings a toy wooden horse to life.
This is a very pretty and cheerful show, highly recommended to any fan of the classical magical girls. It does have various lessons and dramatic moments, too, which is also typical of this genre. In addition, there are a few unique elements, such as the enchantments listed above. Overall, it's a shame that more people don't know about this series - give it a try; maybe your faith in your dreams can help save Mint's world!
