The Thinking Girl's Treasury of Real Princesses by Shirin Yim Bridges

Centuries ago, women were just "property" to men.  They were allowed to make no decisions, had no ownership of any assets, and could be beaten and even killed by the man they married with no repercussions.  But not all women accepted that as their lot in life...

Goosebottom Books has come out with a fascinating new series about princesses.  (They sent me two unbound books to review - thank you.)  Not your sweet, pretty, vapid, and perhaps stupid variety.  Women with strength, backbone, and courage who changed the country and the men in their life.

I read both "nur jahan of india" and "Isabella of Castile".  These ladies were not shrinking violets.  What was most amazing was that both of them found love, even in the days of arranged marriages.

These are picture books for ages 9-13 and the illustrations are gorgeous, full of vibrant color and they make it easy for the child to see what the princesses wore, where they lived and what the country was like then.

These books are an excellent way to teach history to your child in a fun media.  It should also inspire them to read more about the featured princesses or others in their era to "visit" the countries again.

I highly recommend these books.  Ms. Bridges has done a very nice job of making history fun.  These books are are available now.  Check with your local bookstore for a copy.

If you would like my two review copies for your child, leave a comment here on the blog and then email me at info @ bookfaerie.com (take the spaces out) with your name AND address and tell me why you would like to have them.  I'll pick a winner in about a week.