Author: Stephanie Taylor
Illustrator: Jade Orlando
Publisher: Nosy Crow
Ages: 4-8
Stephanie Taylor’s enchanting tale, “I’m Going to be a Princess,” invites young readers into the dreams of a spirited little girl with grand aspirations. Complemented by Jade Orlando’s illustrations, the story seamlessly weaves together various career paths, introducing notable African American women who left indelible marks in their respective fields.
As the girl expresses her fervent desire to be a princess, suggestions of alternative professions are gently woven into the narrative. A doctor, a brain surgeon like the accomplished Dr. Alexa Canady, represents the world of medicine and the achievements of a trailblazing woman.
Dance becomes another avenue, inspired by renowned dancer Misty Copeland, encouraging an appreciation for the arts and showcasing the accomplishments of an African American figure in the dance world. The narrative then transitions to the suggestion of becoming an Olympic athlete, introducing young readers to the achievements of track and field star Alice Coachman, emphasizing the importance of physical activity and breaking barriers.
The realm of rocket science seamlessly incorporates Annie Easley, one of the pioneering African American female mathematicians and computer scientists at NASA. This opens a door to the fascinating world of space exploration and introduces the accomplishments of a pioneering woman in STEM.
Despite these suggestions, the little girl remains resolute in her desire to be a princess. The heartwarming twist comes as she clarifies her aspiration to be a princess like the one who ruled the Zazzau Kingdom in West Africa – strong, bold, and brave. This cultural dimension celebrates the richness of African history, challenging traditional princess stereotypes.
“I’m Going to be a Princess” is a captivating girlpower book that seamlessly introduces young readers to various career paths while encouraging dreams. The narrative underscores the importance of listening to children and understanding the motivations behind their aspirations. The inclusion of a QR Code on the back cover for a free audio reading enhances the overall reading experience.
Princess (Amazon)*
Princess (Support an Independent Bookstore)*
My thanks to Nosy Crow for providing a Review Copy of this book. All opinions provided herein are my own.
More books for this Age Group can be found here and here.
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