I'm Going to Be a Princess

I'm Going to Be a Princess is a warm and charming story of a young black girl named Maya who dreams of being a princess. However, her mother would prefer she chooses another direction, one that isn't so stereotypically girly. Through the story, she tells Maya about incredible, world-famous black women to inspire her. We hear about brain surgeon Alexa Canady, dancer Misty Copeland and rocket scientist Annie Easley, amongst others, but Maya has her heart set on being a princess…a warrior princess that is!  Just like Princess Amina, the warrior princess from Zazzau Kingdom, West Africa.

This wonderful ending surprised and delighted my seven-year-old daughter, who welcomed the plot twist, as did I. The colourful illustrations are engaging and fun, and the text is light-hearted and conversational. This combination makes it an easily accessible book for many ages. Indeed, all 25 five-year olds in my class enjoyed this story at milk time. Many saw similarities between themselves and Maya; from having the same colour of skin, to simply understanding the desire to be a princess.

I'm Going to Be a Princess is uplifting, informative, inspiring and empowering. It is a great addition to any young girl's book collection, and is a must for classrooms across the country.

Picture book / Reviewed by Jemma Jeffrey, teacher

Suggested Reading Age 5+

I'm Going to Be a Princess is an inspirational story for young children and families. Maya is picked up from school by her mum who asks her about her day at school and what she has been learning about. Maya tells he mum "I want to be a princess when I grow up". Her mum listens and then suggests lots of others ideas for Maya in the context of important black women who have helped and excelled in their occupations.

In this great book we learn about Alexa Canady, Misty Copeland, Alice Coachman, Annie Easley and finally Princess Amina. All these inspirational women were new to me and the added information at the back of the book gives details about their lives and their importance.  An important book to inspire children and to educate.

Picture book / Reviewed by Maria, teacher

Suggested Reading Age 5+