The Princess and the Wizard
on Goodreads (738)
What’s inside...
The Princess and the Wizard is a children's book by Julia Donaldson that tells the story of Princess Eliza, who is captured by a wicked wizard on her birthday. The wizard challenges her to escape his magical clutches by changing her color and shape to blend in with her surroundings. With each attempt, the wizard finds her, but on the seventh day, with the help of her animal friends and clever thinking, Eliza outsmarts the wizard by disguising herself as part of a picture the wizard himself is holding. The wizard is defeated, and Eliza is freed, celebrating her birthday with joy. The story is a celebration of wit, intelligence, and the power of perseverance.
Age
2-6
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Princess Eliza
The Wizard
Discussion points
How do you think the princess felt when the wizard kept changing the rules? What would you do in her situation?
What are some ways the princess used her cleverness to outwit the wizard? Can you think of a time when you solved a problem by thinking creatively?
Why do you think the wizard wanted to capture the princess? How do his actions change by the end of the story?
What does this story teach us about fairness and courage?
Tip: Role play these questions
As you read 'The Princess and the Wizard' together, pause at key moments to ask your child what they think might happen next. This builds anticipation and engages their critical thinking.
Encourage your child to express how they would feel if they were the princess in various scenarios throughout the book. This helps them connect emotionally with the characters and enhances empathy.
After reading, use the illustrations in the book to help your child recall details. Ask them to describe what’s happening in the pictures and how it relates to the story, which aids in visual and verbal recall skills.
Discuss the moral of the story with your child, highlighting the virtues displayed by the princess. This conversation can lead to a discussion about personal values and character.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience and problem-solving
Explanation: The princess demonstrates resilience and quick thinking by cleverly escaping the wizard's various transformation traps.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of facing challenges head-on and using creativity to solve problems, thereby enhancing their adaptability in different situations.
Example Lesson: Courage and self-belief
Explanation: Despite the daunting situation, the princess remains courageous and believes in her ability to overcome the difficulties posed by the wizard.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of courage and trusting in one’s own abilities when confronted with fear or uncertainty.
Example Lesson: The power of cleverness and wits over brute force
Explanation: The princess outsmarts the wizard using her intelligence rather than force, highlighting that brainpower can outmatch physical strength.
Real-World Application: It encourages children to think critically and value intelligence and wit when facing seemingly overpowering challenges.