It shows all readers that it is possible to be yourself, regardless of who you are and that clothes don’t define you – it is your wits and talents, and the kind of person you are that proves what you are capable of. This classic picture book has charmed generations of readers, and inspired young girls to be themselves and not adhere to what society expects of them. When her castle is burned down by a dragon, her clothes destroyed and her fiancé carried off, Elizabeth dons a paper bag – the only item she can find to wear – and follows the trail of the dragon to challenge him – but Elizabeth will soon find out that standing up for herself, and forging her own destiny is much more important than marrying a prince! The story of Elizabeth, destined to marry Prince Ronald, is a feminist tale. Whether it was read to us at home, at school or in day care or preschool, it is one of those classic books that is timeless. But is it worth all that trouble?īy bravely outwitting the dragon and ultimately deciding that she doesn’t need a prince after all, Elizabeth modelled something revolutionary for young readers and adults alike.įor those of us growing up from 1980 onwards, The Paper Bag Princess was part of our lives, and for many of us, the first princess story where she didn’t necessarily end up with the prince, and where the princess saves the day. With her wits alone and nothing but a paper bag to wear, the princess challenges the dragon to show his strength in the hopes of saving the prince. When the fiercest dragon in the whole world smashes Princess Elizabeth’s castle, burns all her clothes, and captures her fiancé, Elizabeth takes matters into her own hands.

Readers the world-over have fallen in love with this classic story of girl power.An empowerment-focused edition of one of the world’s best-loved picture books.One princess who has inspired generations of readers.

The paper bag princess author