10+ Best Princess Books for 8-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect princess books for 8-year-olds? Whether your little reader dreams of enchanted kingdoms or daring adventures, we've gathered a delightful selection of stories that capture the magic and wonder of princess tales. Keep reading to discover our top picks of princess books that are sure to spark imagination and joy in any young reader.

Fun Princess Books for 8-Year-Olds

• The Princess in Black by Shannon Hale and Dean Hale, illustrated by LeUyen Pham
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Princess Magnolia has a secret—she's also the Princess in Black, a superhero who fights monsters! When her monster alarm rings, she springs into action to protect her kingdom.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fun twist on the traditional princess story with action-packed scenes and humorous moments. It encourages young readers to see that they can be both regal and brave.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love superheroes and adventures, and those looking for a princess who does more than wear pretty dresses.

• The Paper Bag Princess by Robert Munsch, illustrated by Michael Martchenko
  • Genre(s): Fairy Tale, Feminism
  • Synopsis: Princess Elizabeth is set to marry Prince Ronald when a dragon destroys her castle and kidnaps Ronald. Instead of waiting to be rescued, Elizabeth dons a paper bag and sets out to save him herself.
  • Why we recommend this book: This book flips traditional fairy tale norms on their heads, promoting independence and self-reliance. It's empowering for young girls and fun for all readers.
  • Perfect for: Children who enjoy fairy tales with a twist and those who appreciate strong, resourceful characters.

• Princess Academy by Shannon Hale
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Coming of Age
  • Synopsis: Miri lives on a mountain where, for generations, her family has lived a simple life. Then the king's priests decree that her home is the site of a new princess academy. Miri and other local girls must attend to learn how to be a proper princess.
  • Why we recommend this book: Besides being a captivating story, it teaches lessons about friendship, self-worth, and the power of education. It's a great read for those who love stories about personal growth and community.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy stories about school life and those who like tales of personal discovery and empowerment.

• Zog by Julia Donaldson, illustrated by Axel Scheffler
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Zog is a young dragon eager to earn a gold star at Dragon School. Each year he learns new skills, but he's also clumsy. A mysterious princess comes to his aid, and together they find a unique way to face challenges.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a delightful and imaginative story that combines humor with themes of perseverance and teamwork.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love dragons and princesses, and those who are learning the value of helping others.

• The Two Princesses of Bamarre by Gail Carson Levine
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Princess Addie is fearful and shy, while her sister Meryl is brave and adventurous. When Meryl falls ill to a terrible disease, Addie must embark on a perilous quest to find a cure.
  • Why we recommend this book: This story explores the bonds of sisterhood and the growth that comes from facing one's fears. It's engaging and teaches valuable life lessons.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy tales of adventure and those who value stories about family and courage.

Educational Princess Books for 8-Year-Olds

• The Princess and the Pea by Lauren Child, illustrated by Polly Borland
  • Genre(s): Fairy Tale, Classic
  • Synopsis: This retelling of the classic tale features a prince searching for a real princess to marry. The test? A single pea under a pile of mattresses to prove her sensitivity.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Reading comprehension, understanding of classic storytelling elements
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a whimsical and visually stunning rendition of a classic fairy tale, encouraging a love for traditional stories.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy classic fairy tales with a modern twist and visually engaging illustrations.

• The Princess and the Pony by Kate Beaton
  • Genre(s): Humor, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: Princess Pinecone wants a fierce warrior horse for her birthday but instead receives a chubby pony with a fondness for sweaters. This unexpected gift teaches her valuable lessons.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Emotional intelligence, humor, problem-solving
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a hilarious story that also imparts lessons on acceptance, the value of unexpected gifts, and finding strength in one's unique qualities.
  • Perfect for: Children who enjoy a good laugh and stories that feature unconventional heroes.

• The Apple-Pip Princess by Jane Ray
  • Genre(s): Fairy Tale, Environmental
  • Synopsis: In a kingdom that has fallen on hard times, the king asks his three daughters to prove who can best lead by using a single apple pip. The youngest daughter, Serenity, plants hers, hoping to rejuvenate the land.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Environmental awareness, leadership skills, creative thinking
  • Why we recommend this book: It promotes environmental stewardship through a beautifully illustrated fairy tale and highlights the importance of nurturing and patience.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in nature, gardening, and stories with moral lessons.

• Princess Smartypants by Babette Cole
  • Genre(s): Humor, Modern Fairy Tale
  • Synopsis: Princess Smartypants does not want to get married; she enjoys being a Ms. To ward off suitors, she sets impossible tasks for her would-be princes.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Critical thinking, independence, gender roles
  • Why we recommend this book: It challenges traditional gender roles and showcases a strong, independent character who values her autonomy.
  • Perfect for: Readers who appreciate humor and tales of empowered female characters.

• The Very Fairy Princess by Julie Andrews and Emma Walton Hamilton, illustrated by Christine Davenier
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Self-Discovery
  • Synopsis: Geraldine, who knows deep down she's a fairy princess, navigates everyday adventures using her unique, sparkly qualities.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Self-expression, confidence building, creativity
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages self-acceptance and the celebration of one’s own unique traits in everyday situations.
  • Perfect for: Young dreamers who see the magic in everyday life and those learning to embrace their true selves.

Challenging Princess Books for 8-Year-Olds

• Ella Enchanted by Gail Carson Levine
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Romance
  • Synopsis: In this novel, Ella is cursed with obedience, which means she must follow any direct order given to her. Ella's journey to break the curse is filled with ogres, giants, wicked stepsisters, and fairy godmothers.
  • Why this book is challenging: The book introduces complex themes such as autonomy, consent, and the consequences of absolute obedience.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a beautifully written reinterpretation of the Cinderella story that empowers young readers to think about personal agency and resilience.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy a strong female protagonist and a twist on classic fairy tales.

• The Princess and the Goblin by George MacDonald
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Classic
  • Synopsis: Princess Irene discovers a magical secret lurking beneath her castle: a race of goblins. With the help of a miner boy named Curdie, she must thwart the goblins' evil plans.
  • Why this book is challenging: It features archaic language and intricate plot lines that require careful reading and comprehension.
  • Why we recommend this book: This classic tale combines elements of adventure and mystery with a rich narrative style that encourages deeper literary appreciation.
  • Perfect for: Advanced readers who enjoy fantasy adventures and exploring classic children's literature.

• Dealing with Dragons by Patricia C. Wrede
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Humor
  • Synopsis: Princess Cimorene is bored with her proper royal life and volunteers to work for a dragon, finding adventure and challenges unlike any she would have faced in her planned, princessly duties.
  • Why this book is challenging: The novel subverts typical fairy tale tropes and introduces satire, which can be a complex concept for young readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a humorous and empowering story that promotes independence and thinking outside the box.
  • Perfect for: Readers looking for non-traditional princess stories and those with a penchant for witty, clever narratives.

• The Ordinary Princess by M.M. Kaye
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Romance
  • Synopsis: Princess Amy is given the gift of being ordinary by a fairy at her christening. As she grows up, she finds her own way in the world, proving that you don't need to be 'special' in the conventional sense to lead a remarkable life.
  • Why this book is challenging: The story explores themes of self-acceptance and societal expectations in a subtle, nuanced way.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a charming story that encourages readers to embrace their own uniqueness and find strength in being true to themselves.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who feel different and anyone who enjoys a fairy tale with a realistic twist.

• Princess Ben by Catherine Gilbert Murdock
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Coming of Age
  • Synopsis: Being a princess isn't all it's cracked up to be. After the death of her parents, Princess Benevolence ends up under the strict rule of her aunt, the queen, who confines her to the castle and prepares her for marriage. Ben discovers a magical room that leads her on an adventure that could change her fate.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative incorporates complex themes of loss, personal growth, and autonomy.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines elements of magic and self-discovery in a story that also deals with the pressures of royal life and the fight for personal independence.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy stories of transformation and young princesses finding their own path.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you've got a young reader who's enchanted by princess stories, here are some fun exercises that can help enhance their reading experience and develop good reading habits. These activities are perfect for 8-year-olds and can make reading even more magical!

• Create a Princess Bookmark
  • What it is: Craft a personalized bookmark inspired by their favorite princess book.
  • How it helps: Encourages a sense of ownership and excitement towards reading.
  • Tips: Use colorful papers, stickers, or ribbons to make the bookmark special and fun!

• Princess Book Club
  • What it is: Start a book club focused on princess stories.
  • How it helps: Promotes social interaction and discussion, enhancing comprehension and interest.
  • Tips: Schedule regular meet-ups to discuss a book, and maybe include themed snacks or activities.

• Story Map Creation
  • What it is: Draw a map based on the settings of the princess story.
  • How it helps: Helps with understanding and remembering the story’s settings and plot.
  • Tips: Use the book's illustrations as a guide, and add personal creative touches.

• Character Diary Entries
  • What it is: Write diary entries from the perspective of different characters in the book.
  • How it helps: Develops empathy and deeper understanding of characters.
  • Tips: Choose interesting events in the book for the character to write about.

• Design a New Cover
  • What it is: Redesign the book cover based on how the story felt to them.
  • How it helps: Encourages artistic expression and helps with summarizing the story.
  • Tips: Discuss key elements that should be included on the cover, like main characters or important scenes.

• Predict the Next Adventure
  • What it is: Imagine and write about what happens next after the book ends.
  • How it helps: Stimulates imagination and helps with narrative skills.
  • Tips: Keep the character's personalities and previous events in mind to make plausible predictions.

So there you have it! These exercises are not just fun but are great ways to dive deeper into the books and enhance your child's reading skills. Encourage them to try these activities, and watch their love for reading grow along with their imagination!