You Won’t Find Your Average Princess in These Kids’ Books
by Devon A. Corneal for Brightly
I have nothing against princesses. I like beautiful dresses and fancy crowns and dainty feet and being rescued by a charming man. The traditional damsel in distress is a quintessential part of children’s literature, and I have no problem with little girls who dream of going to a ball and finding true love.
I do, however, know many little girls (and their parents) who are interested in a different kind of princess. One who saves herself or has adventures or prefers sword fights to gowns. These little girls are looking for empowered, kick-ass role models who would rather tame a dragon than learn to use a spinning wheel. So, in honor of our more modern daughters, here are a few royals who embody girl power.
Miao Shan wants to spread happiness, love, and kindness to people everywhere. When her father demands she marry, Miao Shan flees the palace with help from her younger sister, Ling. This remarkable story about sisterhood, compassion, and courage shows readers a different kind of princess.
Below the author reads Kuan Yin on Brightly Storytime.