Princess Smartypants

I was tired of reading fairy tales like Cinderella to my little daughter because of the repetitive message of "A prince came to rescue her, they fell in love at first sight, got married and lived happily ever after". This book came as a whiff of fresh air, breaking all sorts of gender stereotypes. It tells her that the princess need not be in a gown, looking prim and proper and uptight all the time and also that it doesn't take a man to complete or "rescue" a woman. Funny story and very good illustrations. :)

We love the book. Exposure to pretty princesses always at the mercy of others is so wide spread that the book was an essential purchase to provide a counter point. Honestly our 5 year old was discomfited but fascinated enough for several rereads.

I read this on the morning announcements during I Love to Read month (February) in our high school. One of my favourites that I came across in university many moons ago!

Loved this book when my kids were small and have bought it lots of times as a gift for others… funny and breaks the mould a bit without being too miserable

I heard about this book from my French friend who told me it was the first English book she ever owned as a kid and she spoke so fondly about it that I had to buy it! It makes the perfect coffee table book to be honest and I find my guests flipping through it and laughing along with Princess Smartypants. Great book for both young and old.

Babette Cole's books are funny, surprising, and never patronizing to kids! I love her books!!!

A book all girls should read