When my daughter was born, I wanted no part in the Disney princess nonsense. Sure, I like the movies and all, but I have concerns about what the princesses do for a girl's body image and her ability to fend for herself. So I was not going to have any of that princess stuff in our house.
I realize now that resistance is futile. In addition to gifts and hand-me-downs, we've caved and bought a few such coloring books and nightgowns. The girls love princesses.
Last week, however, I found a better princess alternative in Part-time Princess by Deborah Underwood. This regular girl by day and princess by night digs pink, sparkles, frills, and tea parties, BUT she also is one awesome firefighter who fences, plays with frogs in the Royal Mud Puddle, and dances with trolls.
While she does dance with a handsome prince she may marry when she grows up, right now she's just too busy being a girl.
Did I mention she has an awesome relationship with her mother?
This picture book illustrated by Cambria Evans is fun, but also has a good message. So much in our culture pushes girls to either be pink and frilly or to be sporty and achievers. This books lets girls have it all; Part-time Princess shows girls they can be feminine and fun and accomplish important things (and get along with their mothers).
If you don't want to buy it, at least check it out at the library.
