Princess Primrose
#3 in The Tiara Club Series
illustrations by
What’s inside...
This picture book tells the story of a spoilt princess who learns that the simplest things can be the most fun, when a game of hide-and-seek proves to be the highlight of her birthday. The game is the highlight of Primrose's birthday and she is having so much fun that when the cake arrives she wants to carry on playing. She orders the cook's boy to play with her. To everyone's consternation, though, he refuses, unless she asks him nicely. Eventually, she does, bringing her birthday to a happy, polite conclusion. Vivian French has also written 'Caterpillar Caterpillar' (shortlisted for the 1993 Emil and Kurt Maschler Award), 'Apple Trees', 'Spider Watching', 'Jackson's Juniors', 'Tillie McGillie's Fantastical Chair', 'Under the Moon', 'Zenobia and Mouse', 'Mary Poggs and the Sunshine', 'Tottie Pig's Special Birthday', 'Why the Sea is Salt', 'Once Upon a Time', 'One Ballerina Two' and 'Tottie Pig's Noisy Christmas'.
Character compass
Princess Primrose
Discussion points
How did Princess Primrose's feelings change throughout the story, and what caused those changes?
What important lessons did Princess Primrose learn by the end of the book? How can we apply those lessons in our lives?
If you were in Princess Primrose's shoes, how would you have handled the challenges she faced?
What qualities do you admire in Princess Primrose and why?
How do the other characters in the book help Princess Primrose on her journey? Can you think of ways we help each other in our family?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage open-ended responses to promote critical thinking; relate Princess Primrose's experiences to your child's personal experiences; discuss the importance of character traits like courage and kindness as illustrated in the story; use the illustrations in the book to help explain scenes and actions, enhancing comprehension; create a warm and supportive environment for discussion to make reading a shared, joyful experience.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Patience
Explanation: Princess Primrose struggles with impatience throughout the story but learns that some things, like friendships, need time to grow and blossom.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by understanding the value of waiting and developing patience in activities, such as taking turns or waiting for a special event.
Example Lesson: Value of Responsibility
Explanation: As Princess Primrose takes on tasks around the castle, she learns that being responsible leads to a sense of accomplishment and trust from others.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children that completing their chores or homework can build trust and reliability, which are important traits as they grow older.
Example Lesson: Respect for Others
Explanation: Through her interactions with the castle staff and her family, Primrose learns the importance of treating everyone with respect, regardless of their position.
Real-World Application: Children learn to treat their peers, teachers, and family members with respect, understanding that everyone deserves kindness and consideration.
Example Lesson: Courage to Face Fears
Explanation: Princess Primrose shows bravery in confronting the things she fears, learning that facing fears can lead to personal growth and confidence.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand the importance of overcoming fears and challenges, whether it's trying out for a sports team, or speaking in front of the class.
Example Lesson: Importance of Apologizing
Explanation: When Primrose makes mistakes, she learns the importance of apologizing sincerely, which helps mend relationships and build integrity.
Real-World Application: Children can learn from this story how saying sorry when they've wronged someone is crucial in maintaining friendships and building character.