The Runaway Princess (Young Reading (Series 1)) (3.1 Young Reading Series One (Red))
Young Reading Series 1
What’s inside...
A beautiful retelling of the classic French fairytale based on Cinderella, specially written for children just beginning to read. Princess Anna doesn't want to get married, so she runs away, disguised under a donkeyskin cloak. Where will she go and can she make her own happy ending? Accompanied by enchanting illustrations on every page. Part of the Usborne Reading Programme, developed in conjunction with reading experts at Roehampton University. A princess runs away to avoid marriage, taking three of her favourite gowns with her. She works hard, herding geese in a tatty donkeyskin cloak, but when she thinks no one is looking, she tries on one of her beautiful gowns. She is spotted by a prince who falls in love with her at first sight, but she runs away. How will he find her? And what will he think when he finds out that she's just a goose girl? A variation of the Cinderella story, this version is based on Donkeyskin, a 300-year-old story by the French author, Charles Perrault. Part of the Usborne Reading Programme, which includes over 250 titles across seven levels - all developed in conjunction with reading experts at Roehampton University.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-8
Length
48 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
Why do you think the princess wanted to run away?
What would you do if you were in the princess's place?
How did the characters in the story show bravery?
What does the story teach us about friendship and trust?
If you could change one part of the story, what would it be and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate the princess's feelings to their own experiences of wanting something different or feeling adventurous.
Ask your child to imagine alternative solutions to the princess's problems, enhancing their problem-solving skills.
Discuss the moral lessons of the story, focusing on the consequences of the decisions made by the characters.
Use expressive reading to convey the emotions of the characters, helping your child understand the emotional context of the story.
Praise your child’s responses to encourage further discussion and deeper thinking about the story’s themes.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage and Bravery
Explanation: The princess in 'The Runaway Princess' shows courage by venturing out to discover the world beyond her castle. This demonstrates bravery as she faces challenges head-on.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to be brave when trying new activities or when facing difficult situations, understanding that it's okay to step out of their comfort zones.
Example Lesson: Independence and Self-Discovery
Explanation: During her journey, the princess learns to make decisions for herself, leading to a journey of self-discovery.
Real-World Application: This story encourages children to explore their own interests and make personal choices, helping them build a sense of independence.
Example Lesson: Consequences of Actions
Explanation: As the princess faces the consequences of her decision to run away, the story teaches about accountability and responsibility.
Real-World Application: Children can learn that their actions have consequences and that taking responsibility is a key part of growing up.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: The princess meets various characters and learns to understand their perspectives and challenges, fostering empathy.
Real-World Application: This narrative can help children understand the importance of empathizing with others’ feelings and viewpoints in their daily interactions.