Books about princes and princesses

We’ve put together a list of lovely picture books about princes and princesses. But get ready for some twists on the classics – these might not be the royals that you’re used to…

  • Prince Cinders

    by Babette Cole 

    1997 4 to 9 years 

    • Classics
    • Funny
    • Picture books

    Prince Cinders leads a hard life, bullied by his three big hairy brothers – that is, until one Saturday night when Cinders’ luck changes

  • The Princess and the Peas

    by Caryl Hart, illustrated by Sarah Warburton 

    2012 2 to 9 years 

    • Funny
    • Picture books

    In this light-hearted take on a favourite fairy-tale, Lily-Rose May is allergic to peas – so the doctor decides that she must be a princess!

  • The Pea and the Princess

    by Mini Grey 

    2004 4 to 9 years 

    • Classics
    • Picture books

    This is the real story of the princess and the pea, which recounts events from the Pea’s perspective.

  • Princess Arabella and the Giant Cake

    by Mylo Freeman 

    2017 4 to 9 years 

    • Around the world
    • Picture books

    Princess Arabella loved her recent birthday party so much that she wishes she could have another one. Thankfully, Grandma’s birthday is just days away. A joyful, multi-ethnic tale in the Princess Arabella series, with vibrant illustrations.

  • Princess BMX

    by Marie Basting, illustrated by Flavia Sorrentino 

    2019 5 to 14 years 

    • Adventure
    • Chapter books
    • Fantasy
    • Funny

    Princess Avariella is heir to the throne of the magical kingdom of Biscotti. Bored of behaving with grace and decorum, she gets a BMX bike. A fast-paced contemporary fairy tale with quirky characters, a hilarious plot and funny black-and-white illustrations.

  • Princess Smartypants

    by Babette Cole 

    1986 5 to 9 years 

    • Classics
    • Funny
    • Picture books

    Princess Smartypants is rebellious, independent, and very happy being single – but her parents want her to get married and settle down! This hilarious picture book has a subversive protagonist and a strong message about choosing your own destiny.

  • The Little Prince

    by Antoine de Saint-Exupery 

    1991 5 to 14 years 

    • Around the world
    • Classics

    An air pilot makes a forced landing deep in the Sahara Desert. There, he makes a mysterious Little Prince, who tells him a series of wise and enchanting stories.