#4 in The Princess in Black Series
The Princess in Black Takes a Vacation
2016 by
on Goodreads (3,181)
What’s inside...
After battling monsters all night, a sleepy Princess in Black decides that she needs a vacation. After all, the Goat Avenger has offered to protect the goats while she's away. The very next day, Princess Magnolia rides her bicycle to the seaside where the air is salty, the sun is shiny, and the sea is as blue as monster fur. But just as Princess Magnolia is about to take a nap on her hammock, she hears a 'ROAR'. Could a sea monster ruin this vacation for the Princess in Black?
Why read this book
- Engaging adventure boosts problem-solving skills.
- Introduces stress management through relatable storytelling.
- Encourages bravery and resilience in young readers.
- Strengthens reading skills with captivating narrative.
The Big Picture
- Encourages understanding of self-care importance.
- Highlights balance between duties and health.
- Shows taking breaks boosts effectiveness and morale.
- Ideal for discussing life's challenges and rest.
Diversity & Representation
- Showcases a strong, independent female protagonist.
- Encourages breaking traditional gender roles through adventure.
- Promotes inclusivity in heroic roles for young girls.
Book in series
#4
Age
5-7
Length
88 pages
Text complexity
developing
Character Compass
Discussion points
What do you think Princess Magnolia enjoys most about her vacation?
How does the Princess feel when she tries to relax but keeps getting interrupted?
Why do you think the Princess keeps her secret identity?
What would you do if you were the Princess and needed a break?
Can you think of a time when you helped someone, just like Princess Magnolia does?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by asking your child to summarize the story in their own words, enhancing their recall and sequencing skills. Encourage them to express feelings about the characters' experiences, building empathy and emotional understanding. Relate the Princess's need for a break to your child’s own experiences with rest and relaxation, making it personal and relatable. Discuss the importance of helping others, reinforcing social values. Lastly, celebrate the fun and adventure in the book to keep reading enjoyable and engaging.
What parents love
Perfect blend of adventure and humor for kids.
Handles themes of rest and responsibility beautifully.
Engaging read, my child requested multiple re-reads.
Educational yet incredibly fun, highly recommend.
Key Lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of taking breaks
Explanation: The story illustrates how even heroes need time to rest, as the Princess in Black goes on a vacation to recuperate from her duties.
Real-World Application: Children can learn that it's okay to take a break when feeling tired or overwhelmed, whether from schoolwork or other activities.
Example Lesson: Helping others is rewarding
Explanation: Despite being on vacation, the Princess in Black helps save the day from a sea monster, demonstrating the joy and fulfillment that comes from helping others.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to be helpful and considerate in their daily interactions with peers and family members.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and collaboration
Explanation: The Princess in Black teams up with the Princess in Blankets to defeat the monster, showing that working together can achieve great results.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of cooperating with others to solve problems, whether in group projects at school or in playing sports.
Example Lesson: Maintaining one's identity
Explanation: Despite taking a break, the Princess in Black remains true to her hero identity, indicating that one can stay true to oneself in any situation.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to remain consistent and true to their core values, irrespective of the scenarios they face.