Oh, hello wonderful adorableness story I never knew I needed until I read it. It’s a pretty rare find when you come across a book that includes commentary on a number of important topics whilst also managing to be one of the cutest fluffy romances I’ve ever read in a middlegrade graphic novel. Katie O’Neill’s Princess Princess Ever After is hands down one of the most amazing middlegrade books I have ever read. And frankly, I think anyone who chooses not to read this is doing themselves a disservice. Really, that cover art should be motivation enough.

I’m reminded somewhat of Daniel Errico’s The Bravest Knight Who Ever Lived.

Our story begins with a princess and a cry from a tower.

When Princess Amira astride her trusty unicorn happens upon young Princess Sadie and her pet dragon locked away in a tower, she quickly sets to rescue the sweet girl from her predicament. However, an evil will do all she can to return young Sadie to her tower prison and the two will soon find a harrowing journey ahead of them. Together, they soon find themselves navigating a world of unfair expectations, bullying, and jealousy. Alongside the new friends they make together, Sadie and Amira show the world the greatness of their true selves.

A BEAUTIFUL LOVE STORY.

While I am a huge fan of the pairing that emerged from this graphic novel, I do have to admit that it was rather rushed. Given the fast-paced and short nature of the book and plot, it’s reasonable enough that much of the love story was pushed through quickly. If you’re looking for a slow-burn sort of romance, this definitely isn’t the book you’re going to want to pick up. That said, the two in Princess Princess Ever After probably one of the most heartwarming couples I’ve ever read about (I had a much better two paragraphs describing their relationship earlier, but wordpress decided to eat it, so here we are).

Ultimately, the most important truth for you to recognize about the portrayal of the couple is that while still wonderful and adorable, love does take somewhat of a backseat to some incredible character development.

BEING YOURSELF IN THE FACE OF ADVERSITY.

You see, ultimately, what this book’s really about is being your best and truest self, regardless of what the rest of the world says. Whether that self is a kind-hearted princess, a brave knight, or a royal advisor, the truth is that you don’t have to fit into a  box of stereotyped expectations that the rest of the world has for you. You don’t have to fall prey to the bullying and fat-shaming from someone whose only goal is to tear you down.

Each of the three main characters in this book has a societal based struggle they face and overcome. They don’t let the beliefs of others dictate who they become and thus they, and the world, become better for it. This is hands down a graphic novel that I will continue to be incredibly fond of and I hope to share it with many who will love its characters and story in the future.

🦊🦊🦊🦊🦊

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