The Runaway Princess

The Runaway Princess

Written by: Kate Coombs

Published by: Farrar, Straus and Giroux, 2008

288 Pages

 

​Meg is not the normal princess. Her parents are trying to marrying her off by hold a competition for the best prince around. But Meg doesn’t want to stay living under her parent’s noses for the rest of her life either. With the help of her best friend, a maid, a witch, a wizard, and other magical friends, she sets out to win the competition herself. Will Princess Meg be able to change her fate? Or will she be forced to marry a prince and live ‘happily ever after’?

 

​There are not very many illustrations in the chapter book. The cover of the book is done with oils and inks. The cover is very whimsical and enchanting. It truly captures the essence of the magical story. The cover illustration is extremely eye catching and draws you to pick up the pick and uncover all the excitement on the inside.  

 

​I would use this book for a writing lesson. I would have my student write their own fairytale, but with a twist. Instead of being the princess looking for a prince, write about what they wish they could do in the kingdom! I would have an older grade compare and contrast this story to the story of another princess book or fairytale of their choice. As a history lesson, I would have the student’s research royals from earlier time eras to determine how often the princesses actually had no choice inwhom they were going to marry.