Far from a perfect book, but a wonderful addition to the world of fairy tales. Sure, we have princesses who are pretty, and clever, and kind, and we even have princesses who go out among the people to see how they live. But how many of them actually *work* among the people? And in what other fairy tale is simple *mindfulness* the theme?

I'm always telling my kids focus; pay attention; think; use your brain." I wish I could have shared this book with them when they were little." ( )

This is a new princess story about one that was heir to the throne, but she was young and none of the nobles wanted her to rule. She then went on an adventure of her own learning the poor poeple's ways, working and living among them, hearing their issue, and seeing the world differently through their eyes. She id proven to be loyal and noble and wise beyond her years and eventually makes it back to her kingdom to rule. ( )

The tale of a princess who is "wide-awak" (wise about her surroundings and alert) who motivates a peasant uprising to overthrow the nobles. A cute tale in the beginning with a princess who has her own style, but turns quite political in the end. An interesting read. ( )