A Pride of Princesses: Princess Tales from Around the World
A Trophy Chapter Book. Series
What’s inside...
In 'A Pride of Princesses: Princess Tales from Around the World,' Shirley Climo presents a collection of fairy tales celebrating diverse princesses from various cultures and traditions. Each story features unique princesses from different continents like the Middle East, Europe, Asia, and more. These tales entertain and offer lessons on courage, kindness, wisdom, and authenticity. Climo's retellings are enriched with cultural details, giving readers insights into different customs and folklore. The book challenges typical Western princess stereotypes and highlights the strength and intelligence of women from diverse backgrounds. Notable princesses include Mpunzanyana from South Africa, Lina from Germany, and Maix from Central America, each facing unique challenges and adventures.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-10
Length
112 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What qualities did you admire in the princesses from the different stories? How do they compare to what you think makes a good leader?
How did the different settings around the world influence the princesses’ stories? Can you think of ways your own environment shapes your daily life?
If you could be friends with one of the princesses, who would it be and why?
What challenges did the princesses face and how did they overcome them? Have you faced a similar challenge and what did you learn from it?
What have these tales taught you about the importance of cultural diversity and understanding?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use a world map to locate the countries mentioned in the book before reading each tale. This will help contextualize each story and boost geographical awareness.
Discuss the historical and cultural background of each princess story, emphasizing how storytelling can differ greatly across cultures.
Encourage your child to express which story was their favorite and to draw a scene from that tale. This can help deepen their understanding and emotional connection to the story.
Compare and contrast the princesses in the book with those from other familiar tales. This can help highlight unique lessons from different cultural backgrounds.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Cultural diversity and respect
Explanation: This book offers a collection of princess tales from different parts of the world, each presenting unique cultural values and traditions.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate and respect diverse cultures, helping them develop empathy and social skills in a multicultural world.
Example Lesson: Bravery and self-reliance
Explanation: Many stories depict princesses facing challenges and overcoming them using their wit and courage.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to be independent and face their own challenges bravely, building their self-confidence and problem-solving skills.
Example Lesson: The importance of kindness
Explanation: Several tales highlight princesses who succeed and are rewarded because of their genuine kindness to others.
Real-World Application: This underlines the value of being kind to peers, promoting positive interpersonal behaviors and relationships among children.
Example Lesson: Perseverance pays off
Explanation: Princesses in the stories often achieve their goals by not giving up despite difficulties.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of persistence in achieving goals, whether it’s in academics, sports, or personal hobbies.
Example Lesson: Understanding personal values
Explanation: The princesses often face moral dilemmas and make decisions based on their values, which shapes their character.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to reflect on their own values and the consequences of their choices, aiding in their moral development.