Review - The Paper Bag Princess

The Paper Bag Princess
by Robert Munsch
illustrated by Michael Martchenko
Date: 1980
Publisher: Annick Press
Reading level: C
Book type: picture book
Pages: 32
Format: e-book
Source: library

In this bestselling modern classic, Princess Elizabeth is slated to marry Prince Ronald when a dragon attacks the castle and kidnaps Ronald. In resourceful and humorous fashion, Elizabeth finds the dragon, outsmarts him, and rescues Ronald—who is less than pleased at her un-princess-like appearance.

(synopsis from Goodreads)

I don't even know how many times I've read this. It was pretty much a staple in my childhood. We even had a recording at one point of the author reading it (Robert Munsch is a great storyteller; if you ever get a chance to see or hear him read one of his books, take it). This book is probably one of the first feminist books I ever read, and I still love the message.

Even after all these years, Elizabeth kicks dragon ass and Ronald is still a bum (he's actually more of an asshole, but this is a kids' book, so "bum" is what you get). This is one of those books where the princess does the rescuing, and she does it in a very clever way. I wasn't sure when I picked it up if it had stood the test of time. But it's not dated at all; it's still wonderfully funny and empowering.

Highly recommended!

Premise: 5/5
Meter: n/a
Writing: 4/5
Illustrations: 4/5
Originality: 4/5

Enjoyment: 5/5

Overall: 4.5 out of 5