The Practical Princess and Other Liberating Fairy Tales

The Practical Princess and Other Liberating Fairy Tales is a 1979 collection of six short stories that reimagine traditional fairy tale elements. The book represents a departure from conventional princess narratives, with characters who solve problems through logic and resourcefulness. The title story introduces Princess Bedelia, who receives an unusual gift of common sense from a fairy at birth. This gift proves essential as she faces challenges including a dragon, a fraudulent suitor, and a cursed prince. The collection features protagonists who take control of their own destinies rather than waiting for rescue. The tales incorporate familiar fairy tale components like dragons, spells, and royalty while subverting standard plot conventions. These stories explore themes of self-reliance, critical thinking, and the value of practical intelligence over traditional fairy tale virtues. The narratives challenge typical gender roles and expectations found in classic fairy tales.

The collection connects with readers who seek fairy tales that challenge traditional gender roles. Most reviews highlight the title story as the standout. Readers appreciate: - Smart, capable female protagonists who solve problems through logic - Humor and wit throughout the stories - Modern sensibilities while maintaining a classic fairy tale feel - Short length making it accessible for young readers - Illustrations by Rick Schreiter Common criticisms: - Some stories feel less memorable than others - Limited availability/out of print status - Brief length left some wanting more Ratings: Goodreads: 4.08/5 (216 ratings) Amazon: 4.7/5 (15 ratings) Notable reader comments: "These are the fairy tales I wanted my daughter to grow up with" - Goodreads reviewer "The princesses use their brains instead of waiting to be rescued" - Amazon reviewer "Perfect antidote to passive princess stories" - LibraryThing reviewer

Dealing with Dragons by Patricia C. Wrede Princess Cimorene rejects traditional princess roles to become a dragon's librarian and solves problems through logic and wit.

Princess Smartypants by Babette Cole The story follows a princess who uses clever tactics to maintain her independence and avoid unwanted marriages.

The Paper Bag Princess by Robert Munsch A princess rescues herself and her prince from a dragon while learning the value of practicality over appearances.

Ella Enchanted by Gail Carson Levine A cursed girl breaks free from magical obedience through resourcefulness and determination rather than traditional fairy tale solutions.

The Enchanted Forest Chronicles by Patricia C. Wrede This series features princesses and other characters who reject fairy tale conventions and solve problems through intelligence and practical skills.

🔹 Jay Williams served in World War II as a correspondent and wrote extensively about his experiences, which later influenced his approach to writing stories about courage and resourcefulness. 🔹 The book was published in 1978, during a period of significant social change when traditional gender roles in children's literature were being increasingly challenged and reimagined. 🔹 Princess Bedelia's "practical" gift of common sense stands in stark contrast to the traditional fairy tale blessings of beauty, grace, or musical talent - a deliberate subversion that predated many modern feminist retellings. 🔹 The book's illustrations by Friso Henstra earned critical acclaim for their whimsical style that perfectly complemented the stories' blend of traditional and modern elements. 🔹 While primarily known for his children's books, Jay Williams wrote across multiple genres, including adult fiction, poetry, and science books, publishing over 80 works in his lifetime.