Lisa Dawn's Blog: The Princess Blog, page 22
August 12, 2023
Story Saturday: Princess Casey's Magic Closet
"Princess Casey's Magic Closet"
One day, a foreign dignitary came to visit in the hopes of making peace between the two kingdoms. They had been at war for many years, so the relationship between the kingdoms was still rocky. Casey decided the best way to win them over would be to put on a show they would never forget. Even though the kingdom was her enemy, they were known for their beautiful ballet performances. Casey decided that would be the perfect way to honor their foreign guest. Not only were ballerinas graceful, but they also wore beautiful tutus and tiaras. She stood in front of her closet and described her ideal ballet ensemble. The closet glowed in its usual way, and out came a beautiful floral tutu dress with pink accents that she just knew would wow her guest.
When Casey stepped into the audience chamber and appeared before her waiting audience, she realized that she did not know a single step that she saw the graceful ballerinas from the foreigner's kingdom perform. She tried to stand on the points of her toes and immediately lost her balance and plummeted to the ground.
"How dare you insult us with such a mockery of our art!" cried the dignitary. "If this is how you feel about our kingdom, perhaps we should go back to war!"
Casey tried to hide the tears that burned her eyes as she crumbled on the floor in her lovely costume. She realized too late that there was a lot more to ballet than just wearing pretty dresses. But how could she possibly learn all the moves in such a short period of time to make up with her guest? She begged the dignitary to stay just a bit longer while she conferred with her ladies-in-waiting.
"Isn't it obvious?" asked Lady Rosa. "You have a magic closet. The best way to impress our guest is with a fashion show that honors ensembles from all over the world! All you need to do is ask for it."
"I can't put on a fashion show all by myself!" Casy cried. "Imagine how long it would take to change into all those outfits."
"You don't have to," said Lady Violet. "You have us. If you create the fashions, we can be your models."
Princess Casey rubbed the wet tears from her eyes. "You're right," she said. "I don't know why I thought I needed to do all of this by myself. If you find a way to stall our guest, I'll be back with enough outfits for the most incredible fashion show the world has ever seen!"
With determination in her eyes, Princess Casey retreated to her chamber and approached her magic closet once again. She spoke with conviction, describing the vision she had for the grand fashion show she was about to create.
"Closet, I need your help once again. Manifest for me the most exquisite and diverse collection of outfits from various cultures and time periods. I want to showcase the beauty of the world through fashion."
In response to her request, the magic closet sprang into action. One by one, it produced an endless array of stunning garments from across the globe. Traditional Japanese kimonos adorned with delicate cherry blossom patterns, elegant Indian saris in rich and vibrant colors, regal African tribal dresses showcasing intricate beadwork – the closet's creations were nothing short of spectacular.
Princess Casey quickly gathered her ladies-in-waiting and explained her plan. Lady Rosa and Lady Violet shared her excitement, and they immediately set to work coordinating the logistics of the fashion show.
As the time for the fashion show approached, Princess Casey put on her own incredible outfit, a gown inspired by the Renaissance era, complete with intricate embroideries and jewels. She stood before the full-length mirror, feeling a newfound confidence radiating from within. "Let's do this," she said to herself, determined to make amends and win over their foreign guest.
As the fashion show commenced, the audience was captivated by the breathtaking display of multicultural fashion. Lady Violet, donning an elegant Chinese cheongsam, gracefully glided across the runway. Lady Rosa followed, dressed in an ethereal Greek goddess-inspired ensemble. Each lady-in-waiting showcased a unique outfit, representing different continents, historical periods, and fashionable styles.
Awestruck by the magnificence of the fashion show, the foreign dignitary watched with admiration. The display of reverence for their culture and traditions through fashion touched his heart. He realized that Princess Casey's intentions were never to offend, but rather to bridge the divide between their kingdoms.
As the final model took her place on the runway, the princess stepped forward, wearing a breathtaking fusion of all the showcased styles. With an eloquent grace she had never before possessed, she expressed her sincere apologies to the dignitary for her previous misstep. "I humbly present this fashion show as a gesture of peace, understanding, and respect," she proclaimed.
Touched by the princess's genuine remorse and the beauty of the fashion show, the dignitary's anger began to dissipate. They saw Princess Casey's willingness to rectify her mistake and acknowledged her sincere effort to reconcile their kingdoms.
Moved by the profound statement made through the fashion show, the dignitary approached the princess with a softened expression. "Princess Casey, your fashion show has taught me the power of unity and understanding. I now see that we can find common ground despite our differences. Let us work together towards a lasting peace between our kingdoms."
And so, through the magical language of fashion, Princess Casey not only mended their strained relationship but also fostered a newfound alliance between their kingdoms. The grand fashion show became a symbol of reconciliation and the catalyst for a new era of harmony and understanding. Princess Casey's magic closet continued to create exquisite gowns, not only for her but for anyone who sought its assistance, reminding all that true beauty lies in embracing diversity and finding common ground.
Once upon a time, there was a princess named Casey. A fairy had blessed her with an enchanted closet that would create any gown she could desire. Each creation would fit perfectly and come in any color or style that she wanted. Casey loved her closet. She was never seen in public in the same dress more than once, and she always had the perfect outfit for every occasion. When she was invited to ride horses, the closet manifested a frilly suede and lace riding outfit that was as beautiful as it was practical. When she was invited to royal balls in other kingdoms, she always arrived in an elegant gown that matched the colors and most popular style of that kingdom.
One day, a foreign dignitary came to visit in the hopes of making peace between the two kingdoms. They had been at war for many years, so the relationship between the kingdoms was still rocky. Casey decided the best way to win them over would be to put on a show they would never forget. Even though the kingdom was her enemy, they were known for their beautiful ballet performances. Casey decided that would be the perfect way to honor their foreign guest. Not only were ballerinas graceful, but they also wore beautiful tutus and tiaras. She stood in front of her closet and described her ideal ballet ensemble. The closet glowed in its usual way, and out came a beautiful floral tutu dress with pink accents that she just knew would wow her guest.When Casey stepped into the audience chamber and appeared before her waiting audience, she realized that she did not know a single step that she saw the graceful ballerinas from the foreigner's kingdom perform. She tried to stand on the points of her toes and immediately lost her balance and plummeted to the ground.
"How dare you insult us with such a mockery of our art!" cried the dignitary. "If this is how you feel about our kingdom, perhaps we should go back to war!"
Casey tried to hide the tears that burned her eyes as she crumbled on the floor in her lovely costume. She realized too late that there was a lot more to ballet than just wearing pretty dresses. But how could she possibly learn all the moves in such a short period of time to make up with her guest? She begged the dignitary to stay just a bit longer while she conferred with her ladies-in-waiting."Isn't it obvious?" asked Lady Rosa. "You have a magic closet. The best way to impress our guest is with a fashion show that honors ensembles from all over the world! All you need to do is ask for it."
"I can't put on a fashion show all by myself!" Casy cried. "Imagine how long it would take to change into all those outfits."
"You don't have to," said Lady Violet. "You have us. If you create the fashions, we can be your models."
Princess Casey rubbed the wet tears from her eyes. "You're right," she said. "I don't know why I thought I needed to do all of this by myself. If you find a way to stall our guest, I'll be back with enough outfits for the most incredible fashion show the world has ever seen!"
With determination in her eyes, Princess Casey retreated to her chamber and approached her magic closet once again. She spoke with conviction, describing the vision she had for the grand fashion show she was about to create.
"Closet, I need your help once again. Manifest for me the most exquisite and diverse collection of outfits from various cultures and time periods. I want to showcase the beauty of the world through fashion."
In response to her request, the magic closet sprang into action. One by one, it produced an endless array of stunning garments from across the globe. Traditional Japanese kimonos adorned with delicate cherry blossom patterns, elegant Indian saris in rich and vibrant colors, regal African tribal dresses showcasing intricate beadwork – the closet's creations were nothing short of spectacular.
Princess Casey quickly gathered her ladies-in-waiting and explained her plan. Lady Rosa and Lady Violet shared her excitement, and they immediately set to work coordinating the logistics of the fashion show.
As the time for the fashion show approached, Princess Casey put on her own incredible outfit, a gown inspired by the Renaissance era, complete with intricate embroideries and jewels. She stood before the full-length mirror, feeling a newfound confidence radiating from within. "Let's do this," she said to herself, determined to make amends and win over their foreign guest.
As the fashion show commenced, the audience was captivated by the breathtaking display of multicultural fashion. Lady Violet, donning an elegant Chinese cheongsam, gracefully glided across the runway. Lady Rosa followed, dressed in an ethereal Greek goddess-inspired ensemble. Each lady-in-waiting showcased a unique outfit, representing different continents, historical periods, and fashionable styles.
Awestruck by the magnificence of the fashion show, the foreign dignitary watched with admiration. The display of reverence for their culture and traditions through fashion touched his heart. He realized that Princess Casey's intentions were never to offend, but rather to bridge the divide between their kingdoms.
As the final model took her place on the runway, the princess stepped forward, wearing a breathtaking fusion of all the showcased styles. With an eloquent grace she had never before possessed, she expressed her sincere apologies to the dignitary for her previous misstep. "I humbly present this fashion show as a gesture of peace, understanding, and respect," she proclaimed.
Touched by the princess's genuine remorse and the beauty of the fashion show, the dignitary's anger began to dissipate. They saw Princess Casey's willingness to rectify her mistake and acknowledged her sincere effort to reconcile their kingdoms.
Moved by the profound statement made through the fashion show, the dignitary approached the princess with a softened expression. "Princess Casey, your fashion show has taught me the power of unity and understanding. I now see that we can find common ground despite our differences. Let us work together towards a lasting peace between our kingdoms."
And so, through the magical language of fashion, Princess Casey not only mended their strained relationship but also fostered a newfound alliance between their kingdoms. The grand fashion show became a symbol of reconciliation and the catalyst for a new era of harmony and understanding. Princess Casey's magic closet continued to create exquisite gowns, not only for her but for anyone who sought its assistance, reminding all that true beauty lies in embracing diversity and finding common ground.
August 6, 2023
How Beauty and the Beast Paved the Way for Disney's Broadway Era
Princesses are no strangers to the Broadway stage. With their glamorous gowns and gorgeous singing voices, live theater is the perfect way to showcase these glowing examples of femininity. With the Broadway Princess Party entering its seventh year currently under the guise of Disney Princess: The Concert, it seems like there has always been at least one adaptation of a Disney Princess movie gracing the Broadway stage. However, this tradition did not begin until 1994 when Disney on Broadway premiered their first show, a stage adaptation of the animated masterpiece, Beauty and the Beast. After the success of The Little Mermaid launching the Disney Renaissance in 1989, Disney movies became known for their Broadway-style soundtracks pioneered by the talent of Alan Menken and Howard Ashman, who came to their animation studio with backgrounds in musical theater. Though this show is no longer running on Broadway, the script is available for other theater groups including Magnolia Musical Theatre, who performed the show for free in July and August. Thanks to this limited run, I was fortunate to see their fantastic interpretation of "Beauty and the Beast" on my birthday this year.
Though Beauty and the Beast was not the first show I saw on Broadway, it was the first one that I actively convinced my family to take me to, so it has some personal significance to me. The first time I saw it nearly two decades ago, I was a little underwhelmed that the extra hour that was added to make it a Broadway-length show didn't provide any new plot details or character development. However, I still enjoyed the additional songs that Menken and Ashman wrote to expand the runtime. I've had similar feelings about other Broadway shows that Disney adapted from their films, including Aladdin, The Little Mermaid, and Frozen. It would have been exciting if they took advantage of their Broadway department to bring more original stories to the stage like Aida, but Disney seems to prefer focusing on older properties that they know people will recognize. Seeing the Beauty and the Beast musical again after so many years and knowing exactly what to expect vastly improved my experience. I was awestruck by the show that Magnolia Musical Theatre put on. It was a gorgeous spectacle with impeccable sets, costumes, acting, and orchestrations, and I still can't believe it was all free!
The biggest draw for Disney on Broadway adaptations is the new songs that are typically written by the same writers and composers as the ones for the films. These extra songs can become so popular that they get incorporated into future projects such as the 2002 Platinum Edition DVD of Beauty and the Beast, which included a new animated sequence of the song "Human Again" from the Broadway musical. The Little Mermaid Live! television special from 2019 included some of my favorite songs from The Little Mermaid Broadway musical that were sadly replaced by more modern and less catchy versions for the live-action remake. My favorite original songs from the Beauty and the Beast musical used to be "Home," which I had on a Disney Princess compilation CD as a child, and "If I Can't Love Her," the Beast's song that concludes the first act of the show. However, seeing the show again as an adult gave me a deeper appreciation of Belle's song, "A Change in Me," from the second act. The song is about growing up and learning to accept that the things we want as children may no longer mesh with the unexpected directions our lives take as adults. I was surprised to find that I got choked up when I heard this song again now that I'm in my 30s because it had never resonated with me as a teenager.
Another thing that makes live theater special is seeing the audience's reactions to everything in person. Magnolia's show sold beautiful light-up rose wands to children and gave them the opportunity to wave the wands at the climax to help bring the Beast back to life, similar to the tradition of having the audience clap to save Tinker Bell in Peter Pan. This created a beautiful spectacle that gave children an opportunity to feel like part of the show. I also had a lot of fun watching the girls who were sitting near me because they were very energetic and danced around by the trees nearby while playing with their light-up roses. There's something magical about seeing your favorite songs performed live in front of you and knowing that anything can happen. Another fun treat was that the theatre group released thousands of bubbles into the air during the intermission and the finale of "Be Our Guest." After the show, the cast came out to sign autographs and pose for pictures with the audience, another thing that is only possible when seeing a show in person.
The enchanting world of Disney Princess adaptations on Broadway continues to captivate audiences, bringing beloved characters and timeless stories to life on the grand stage. From the iconic songs to the stunning sets and costumes, each production showcases the magic and wonder that live theater can create. Whether it's the allure of new songs or the nostalgia of familiar melodies, these adaptations hold a special place in the hearts of both young and old. The experience of witnessing the audience's reactions and being part of a collective moment of joy is a testament to the power of live performances. With every performance, these adaptations remind us of the enduring appeal of Disney Princesses, and the universal impact of their stories. So, if you have the opportunity, immerse yourself in the world of Disney on Broadway and allow the magic to transport you to a place where dreams come true and happily ever afters await.
July 30, 2023
Review: A Wish of Ashes and Glass
The story of "Cinderella" has been told so many ways with a prince as the main love interest that I think it is the best candidate for a queer-friendly adaptation. With her latest novel,
A Wish of Ashes and Glass
, my favorite fantasy artist, Selina Fenech, agrees. The ARC I received of this book contained every new element I've seen in a "Cinderella" retelling with the addition of a female love interest for our tormented heroine. Political intrigue? Check. A selfless heroine with magic powers? Check. A royal conspiracy revolving around the use of magic? Check. Nicer stepsisters? Check. Despite having so many similar elements to other retellings, the story remains fresh and interesting thanks to its surprise romantic lead, a mighty warrior princess who exudes qualities that are similar to queer-coded anime heroines of the past like Princess Knight, Utena, and Oscar.
Ellasyn was born with healing powers that allow her to absorb other people's pain, sickness, and wounds, but in order to do so, she takes on their ailments herself. Despite the scars and suffering that it causes, she made a vow to her mother, from whom her powers were inherited, that she would use them whenever encountered someone in need. After losing both of her parents, El became stuck with a wicked stepfather and two timid stepsisters. Trolaine is just as determined to marry one of his daughters off to royalty as the stepmother from the original fairy tale, but he also has a violent temper, which makes him a physical threat in addition to an emotional one. El's only solace comes from the magic tree that grew over her mother's gave and provides her with incredible things, including a cool-looking clockwork horse that carries her to the three balls that the king holds to find a bride for his son.
When El arrives at the balls in her magical gowns, she has little interest in meeting the prince and tries to enjoy the ball from the sidelines in more secluded areas of the castle. On her quest to remain hidden, she continually runs into Ara, a brave captain from the royal guard. Ara is impressed with El's humility and mystery and seeks her out at each ball to learn more about her. El, in turn, is amazed by Ara's strength and questions how a woman could have gotten such a powerful position. However, she doesn't have much time to solve this puzzle when each ball she attends has some sort of catastrophe that forces her to use her healing powers. Because of these catastrophes, the prince suspects that someone is trying to assassinate the king, and Ara and El are his number one suspects.
The book contains many unexpected twists and turns as well as the same glittering magic and romance that one would expect to find in a "Cinderella" adaptation. Both gender swaps to breathe new life into this commonly retold. The dangerous and strong stepfather provides an explanation for why Cinderella's stepsisters avoid standing up for him as well as posing a bigger threat than the wicked stepmother due to his abusive temper. Ellasyn's female love interest provides a rare opportunity for a strong and powerful heroine who is not the lead character, and the lesbian romance is handled with care and sensitivity, making the story appropriate for younger teenage readers. Selina's skills as an artist shine through her descriptive narrations of Ellasyn's beautiful gowns and the enchanted clockwork horse that brought her to the balls.
A Wish of Ashes and Glass skillfully weaves together familiar elements of the "Cinderella" tale with refreshing new additions. Selina Fenech's storytelling prowess shines through her vivid descriptions and imaginative narrative, breathing new life into the beloved fairy tale. By introducing a queer-friendly romance and exploring themes of selflessness, resilience, and love, the novel captivates readers of all ages. With its strong, empowered heroines, intricate plot twists, and a touch of enchantment, A Wish of Ashes and Glass stands as a testament to the enduring power of storytelling and the limitless possibilities of reinventing timeless classics. I would recommend this both to anyone looking for a new take on "Cinderella" or seeking a clean LGBTQIA fairy tale adaptation.
Ellasyn was born with healing powers that allow her to absorb other people's pain, sickness, and wounds, but in order to do so, she takes on their ailments herself. Despite the scars and suffering that it causes, she made a vow to her mother, from whom her powers were inherited, that she would use them whenever encountered someone in need. After losing both of her parents, El became stuck with a wicked stepfather and two timid stepsisters. Trolaine is just as determined to marry one of his daughters off to royalty as the stepmother from the original fairy tale, but he also has a violent temper, which makes him a physical threat in addition to an emotional one. El's only solace comes from the magic tree that grew over her mother's gave and provides her with incredible things, including a cool-looking clockwork horse that carries her to the three balls that the king holds to find a bride for his son.
When El arrives at the balls in her magical gowns, she has little interest in meeting the prince and tries to enjoy the ball from the sidelines in more secluded areas of the castle. On her quest to remain hidden, she continually runs into Ara, a brave captain from the royal guard. Ara is impressed with El's humility and mystery and seeks her out at each ball to learn more about her. El, in turn, is amazed by Ara's strength and questions how a woman could have gotten such a powerful position. However, she doesn't have much time to solve this puzzle when each ball she attends has some sort of catastrophe that forces her to use her healing powers. Because of these catastrophes, the prince suspects that someone is trying to assassinate the king, and Ara and El are his number one suspects.
The book contains many unexpected twists and turns as well as the same glittering magic and romance that one would expect to find in a "Cinderella" adaptation. Both gender swaps to breathe new life into this commonly retold. The dangerous and strong stepfather provides an explanation for why Cinderella's stepsisters avoid standing up for him as well as posing a bigger threat than the wicked stepmother due to his abusive temper. Ellasyn's female love interest provides a rare opportunity for a strong and powerful heroine who is not the lead character, and the lesbian romance is handled with care and sensitivity, making the story appropriate for younger teenage readers. Selina's skills as an artist shine through her descriptive narrations of Ellasyn's beautiful gowns and the enchanted clockwork horse that brought her to the balls.
A Wish of Ashes and Glass skillfully weaves together familiar elements of the "Cinderella" tale with refreshing new additions. Selina Fenech's storytelling prowess shines through her vivid descriptions and imaginative narrative, breathing new life into the beloved fairy tale. By introducing a queer-friendly romance and exploring themes of selflessness, resilience, and love, the novel captivates readers of all ages. With its strong, empowered heroines, intricate plot twists, and a touch of enchantment, A Wish of Ashes and Glass stands as a testament to the enduring power of storytelling and the limitless possibilities of reinventing timeless classics. I would recommend this both to anyone looking for a new take on "Cinderella" or seeking a clean LGBTQIA fairy tale adaptation.
July 24, 2023
Review: Time Princess - Showdown in Glitter Rise
The latest visual novel in the Time Princess app is a western, which comes as a surprise since there are few female-oriented stories in that genre aside from a few old musicals like Annie Get Your Gun and Calamity Jane. What also came as a surprise is that Showdown in Glitter Rise is the least violent and most culturally sensitive western story I have seen to date with an extremely relatable protagonist who has a heart of gold, a black female sheriff, and a Native American companion. I've never thought of westerns as being particularly female-friendly, but this one rises to the challenge beautifully and fits right in with the other visual novels in this game that cover various cultures and historical time periods. The costumes are unique to the game's infinitely expanding wardrobe. There had not been any western wear provided as an option in one of its many events and stories up to this point.
Showdown in Glitter Rise is about a gentle cowgirl named Bella who works at a saloon with her father and a young man named Sam who they took in when his father died mysteriously. Despite being skilled with a gun, Bella leads a peaceful life and is a pacifist by nature. She is good friends with Malila, a Native American from a local tribe that she enjoys spending time with. Her life turns upside down when a mysterious do-gooder shows up called The Stranger, and the town sheriff, Alexia, wants to determine his intentions. Bella becomes acquainted with The Stranger and learns that he is a Native American nomad named Wapi who wants to discover the reason behind his mentor's depression that led up to his death. Upon getting to know him better, Bella learns that there might be a connection between the death of Sam's father and Wapi's mentor. Their search leads them to a hidden stash of gold from the California Gold Rush that a wicked man Alwyn is after.
This visual novel has three diverse companions with only the slightest hint of romance. Alexia is a no-frills sheriff who is good at her job and well-respected among the townsfolk. She is close to Bella and is willing to let her get away with certain things that she wouldn't do for other people because she trusts Bella's good intent. Sam is my least favorite of the companions. He is ferociously protective of Bella and has an awful temper that comes off as dangerous at times. He is all brawn with minimal brain power and is wholly devoted to finding his father's killer. Wapi, The Stranger, is my favorite companion. He seems like the best romantic match for Bella. Though he is a lone warrior, he is not afraid to reveal his identity to her pretty early on and has an interesting backstory about how he left his tribe to travel the world with his mentor, making it difficult to fit in with either the cowboys or the Native Americans. He is attractive and polite, making him a good fit as a love interest.
While none of the fashions in this story can be construed as glamorous, it provides some unique options to the game's wardrobe. There are several different cowgirl outfits to choose from, with some having more of a feminine flair than others. My favorite was the one with the frilly skirt, but even that one looks practical enough for horseback riding and traveling in difficult terrain. There are several different cowgirl hats in various sizes and jewelry that is unique to western wear. I also liked the fringed deerskin coat that is reminiscent of Native American fashion with matching turquoise jewelry. The hairstyles from this novel are also designed to be appropriate for rougher activities by staying tied back in simple styles. I love that no matter how many new stories the game released, the outfits always look different from the previous sets.
To sum up, Showdown in Glitter Rise is an intriguing addition to the Time Princess app's collection of visual novels. Breaking the stereotype of westerns as male-dominated and violent, this story embraces a more female-friendly and culturally sensitive approach. Through the eyes of the gentle cowgirl Bella, accompanied by the inspiring black female sheriff Alexia and the Native American nomad Wapi, players are immersed in a tale of mystery, friendship, and adventure. The game's expanding wardrobe impresses with its unique western fashion options, showcasing the intricate details of cowgirl attire and Native American-inspired accessories. With its well-crafted storytelling, diverse cast of characters, and the ability to continuously surprise players with fresh costumes, Showdown in Glitter Rise stands out as a testament to the game's commitment to inclusivity and creativity across various time periods and cultures.
July 23, 2023
Review: Barbie (2023)
While princesses return to their storybook roots and Hollywood goes on strike, one highly anticipated movie that encapsulates the face of pop culture today is hitting theaters:
Barbie
. One of the many things that sets this live-action adaptation of a previously animated property and toy line apart from Disney's endless onslaught of live-action remakes is that this film is an original story that only uses the familiarity of its brand as a selling point. It isn't entirely original since similar concepts were used in Disney's 2007 Enchanted and the 2000 made-for-TV movie, Life-Size that Tyra Banks as a living doll, but this is the first time that Barbie has ever been portrayed in the real world. Her many animated films and series, which are directed toward younger audiences, feature her living in a fantasy version of Malibu with her sisters or reenacting classic fairy tales, ballets, and other popular stories. This movie depicts Barbie learning about the hardships and complexities of being a real person. It provides an extensive commentary about feminism and what it means to be a woman in today's society, while also being ridiculously over the top. In fact, it's so many different things at the same time that it's difficult to form only one opinion about it.
Barbie lives in a perfect pink utopia where women rule the world, and everything is made out of plastic. Every day is the best day ever until one day, it isn't. She begins having thoughts about death, her high-heeled feet go flat, and her flawlessly perfect appearance becomes flawed. The other Barbies send her to see Weird Barbie, a guru of sorts, to learn how to fix these issues so everything can go back to the way it was before. Weird Barbie reveals that Barbie has opened a portal to the real world and must go on a journey to find her owner and fix the problem from their end. She is surprised to learn that the girl she is looking for, Sasha, is a goth social justice warrior who hates Barbie and everything she stands for. Just when Barbie gives up any hope of resolving Sasha's issues and is about to surrender herself back to Mattel, Sasha's mother, Gloria, who also works for Mattel, realizes that she is the one who opened the portal to the real world by projecting her own issues of anxiety and self-doubt onto Barbie.
That storyline alone could have made for a poignant and interesting commentary about the complexities of womanhood, but the plot gets clouded by spending an even bigger amount of time on its secondary and more controversial storyline revolving around Ken and the patriarchy. This is the portion of the movie that I did not enjoy nearly as much, and it takes a lot of much-needed screen time away from giving Barbie a chance to resolve the issues with Sasha and Gloria. Ken's struggles derive from the fact that Barbie treats him like the accessory that he was created as instead of a real boyfriend or even a companion. While the animated version of Barbie is nice to everyone, including Ken, this version of the bubbly blonde constantly gives him the cold shoulder, leaving him with feelings of worthlessness and endless longing for something more. When he enters the real world and learns that men can have power there and that women aren't in charge of everything, he decides to team up with the other Kens to take over Barbie Land.
Though it is clear that Ken has some false ideas about how the real world works, the movie has contradictory messages about how much power women have in modern society. On the one hand, it shows a female doctor telling Ken that he needs a medical degree to perform surgery and that simply being a man is not enough to qualify him, but on the other hand, it makes a point of the fact that there are no female executives working at Mattel. After seeing the movie, I looked up Mattel's board of directors and found that only some vice presidents and the executive producer of the animated Barbie movie franchise are female, but that is still more than this film made it look like. There have also been many other women in important positions at the company in the past, particularly Ruth Handler, the creator of Barbie, to whom the movie pays tribute in a big way.
While having the Kens turn Barbie Land into a patriarchy is obviously an over-the-top satire, it is unclear whether the satire is meant to portray an exaggerated version of the real world, implying that women still have no power in modern society despite how far they've come over the past century, or if it is making fun of how modern feminists view the patriarchy. In the end, the audience will leave the movie with an unclear interpretation of how it views men and probably read into it in whatever way matches most closely to their own personal biases. By not giving Barbie a love interest in the real world like her counterparts in Enchanted and Life-Size and making her completely indifferent to her built-in love interest who was literally made for her, the film perpetuates the modern stereotype that wanting to have a life partner to help with the issues that the movie repeatedly acknowledges modern women face is bad. I think the show Crazy Ex-Girlfriend did a better job of acknowledging that it's okay to want a relationship as long as you work on your own underlying issues first. At least Barbie apologizes to Ken at the end.
There isn't a single thing that this movie does halfway, and that includes the costumes and sets, which are by far its biggest strength. Barbie Land is a beautiful pink paradise with almost no CGI. Rumor has it that the movie used so much pink paint on the set that it caused an international shortage. Though this is not a remake of any of the animated Barbie properties, the aesthetics are closest to Life in the Dreamhouse, a self-aware series of animated shorts that ran from 2012 to 2015 and showed Barbie and her friends living in an obviously plastic world that used flat decals to represent food, electronics, and other items that would not be functional in the real world. The movie also focused on vintage Barbie dolls and fashions, particularly those that were lesser-known or discontinued, including the pregnant Midge doll, Ken's friend, Allan, and Growing Up Skipper, a doll that gets taller and grows breasts when you pull her arm. There was a particularly funny scene in which Ken started throwing Barbie's clothes out the window with each fashion item freeze-framing in midair and its title appearing on screen. There was also an original jingle at the beginning of the movie that sounded like a commercial until the lyrics started changing when Gloria's negative thoughts leaked into Barbie's world. It's a fun movie to watch that's filled with bright colors and over-the-top visual gags.
Barbie's live-action adaptation brings together a blend of commentary, satire, and exaggerated storytelling that makes it difficult to form a singular opinion. Within its vibrant pink utopia, Barbie confronts mortality, physical imperfections, and the complexities of being a real person. As she embarks on a journey to find her owner, Sasha, and fix the issues that formed the portal to the real world, the film touches upon feminism and societal expectations, depicting a sharp contrast between Barbie Land and the real world. However, it also delves into a convoluted secondary plot centered around Ken and the patriarchy, muddying the intended focus of the story. The movie's visual appeal shines through its striking sets and costumes, paying homage to vintage Barbie dolls and fashion. While the film's themes and execution may leave viewers with an unclear interpretation of its stance on certain ideas, it remains an entertaining and visually stunning spectacle.
Barbie lives in a perfect pink utopia where women rule the world, and everything is made out of plastic. Every day is the best day ever until one day, it isn't. She begins having thoughts about death, her high-heeled feet go flat, and her flawlessly perfect appearance becomes flawed. The other Barbies send her to see Weird Barbie, a guru of sorts, to learn how to fix these issues so everything can go back to the way it was before. Weird Barbie reveals that Barbie has opened a portal to the real world and must go on a journey to find her owner and fix the problem from their end. She is surprised to learn that the girl she is looking for, Sasha, is a goth social justice warrior who hates Barbie and everything she stands for. Just when Barbie gives up any hope of resolving Sasha's issues and is about to surrender herself back to Mattel, Sasha's mother, Gloria, who also works for Mattel, realizes that she is the one who opened the portal to the real world by projecting her own issues of anxiety and self-doubt onto Barbie.
That storyline alone could have made for a poignant and interesting commentary about the complexities of womanhood, but the plot gets clouded by spending an even bigger amount of time on its secondary and more controversial storyline revolving around Ken and the patriarchy. This is the portion of the movie that I did not enjoy nearly as much, and it takes a lot of much-needed screen time away from giving Barbie a chance to resolve the issues with Sasha and Gloria. Ken's struggles derive from the fact that Barbie treats him like the accessory that he was created as instead of a real boyfriend or even a companion. While the animated version of Barbie is nice to everyone, including Ken, this version of the bubbly blonde constantly gives him the cold shoulder, leaving him with feelings of worthlessness and endless longing for something more. When he enters the real world and learns that men can have power there and that women aren't in charge of everything, he decides to team up with the other Kens to take over Barbie Land.
Though it is clear that Ken has some false ideas about how the real world works, the movie has contradictory messages about how much power women have in modern society. On the one hand, it shows a female doctor telling Ken that he needs a medical degree to perform surgery and that simply being a man is not enough to qualify him, but on the other hand, it makes a point of the fact that there are no female executives working at Mattel. After seeing the movie, I looked up Mattel's board of directors and found that only some vice presidents and the executive producer of the animated Barbie movie franchise are female, but that is still more than this film made it look like. There have also been many other women in important positions at the company in the past, particularly Ruth Handler, the creator of Barbie, to whom the movie pays tribute in a big way.
While having the Kens turn Barbie Land into a patriarchy is obviously an over-the-top satire, it is unclear whether the satire is meant to portray an exaggerated version of the real world, implying that women still have no power in modern society despite how far they've come over the past century, or if it is making fun of how modern feminists view the patriarchy. In the end, the audience will leave the movie with an unclear interpretation of how it views men and probably read into it in whatever way matches most closely to their own personal biases. By not giving Barbie a love interest in the real world like her counterparts in Enchanted and Life-Size and making her completely indifferent to her built-in love interest who was literally made for her, the film perpetuates the modern stereotype that wanting to have a life partner to help with the issues that the movie repeatedly acknowledges modern women face is bad. I think the show Crazy Ex-Girlfriend did a better job of acknowledging that it's okay to want a relationship as long as you work on your own underlying issues first. At least Barbie apologizes to Ken at the end.
There isn't a single thing that this movie does halfway, and that includes the costumes and sets, which are by far its biggest strength. Barbie Land is a beautiful pink paradise with almost no CGI. Rumor has it that the movie used so much pink paint on the set that it caused an international shortage. Though this is not a remake of any of the animated Barbie properties, the aesthetics are closest to Life in the Dreamhouse, a self-aware series of animated shorts that ran from 2012 to 2015 and showed Barbie and her friends living in an obviously plastic world that used flat decals to represent food, electronics, and other items that would not be functional in the real world. The movie also focused on vintage Barbie dolls and fashions, particularly those that were lesser-known or discontinued, including the pregnant Midge doll, Ken's friend, Allan, and Growing Up Skipper, a doll that gets taller and grows breasts when you pull her arm. There was a particularly funny scene in which Ken started throwing Barbie's clothes out the window with each fashion item freeze-framing in midair and its title appearing on screen. There was also an original jingle at the beginning of the movie that sounded like a commercial until the lyrics started changing when Gloria's negative thoughts leaked into Barbie's world. It's a fun movie to watch that's filled with bright colors and over-the-top visual gags.
Barbie's live-action adaptation brings together a blend of commentary, satire, and exaggerated storytelling that makes it difficult to form a singular opinion. Within its vibrant pink utopia, Barbie confronts mortality, physical imperfections, and the complexities of being a real person. As she embarks on a journey to find her owner, Sasha, and fix the issues that formed the portal to the real world, the film touches upon feminism and societal expectations, depicting a sharp contrast between Barbie Land and the real world. However, it also delves into a convoluted secondary plot centered around Ken and the patriarchy, muddying the intended focus of the story. The movie's visual appeal shines through its striking sets and costumes, paying homage to vintage Barbie dolls and fashion. While the film's themes and execution may leave viewers with an unclear interpretation of its stance on certain ideas, it remains an entertaining and visually stunning spectacle.
July 17, 2023
Why Princesses Are Migrating from the Screen Back to the Page
It's a well-known fact that most feature films begin their life as books. Even the classic Disney movies that are considered the epitome of children's cinema were mostly adapted from old fairy tales that were published around the late 19th century. However, for the majority of the 20th century, most fairy tale fans were more interested in seeing these stories come to life on the screen than they were in the source material, and who could blame them? Classic Disney movies are visually stunning, beautifully orchestrated, and fleshed out beyond their short-form origins in a way that is less violent and more family-friendly. However, the current decade seems to be a transitional period that takes fairy tale adaptations back to their roots. Countless issues in Hollywood including union strikes and a long-running dearth of creativity make it more difficult than ever to enjoy modern adaptations of classic media. The past decade has also seen a steep increase in fairy tale authors thanks to the ease of self-publishing and the solidarity of the independent writing community, allowing for a myriad of free or discounted books for readers on a budget.
Disney is not the only studio that produces fairy tale adaptations. Yet, due to the popularity of their films, many other studios who have creative ideas for fairy tale retellings either perform poorly or don't even bother trying. One example of this is the Sofia Coppola adaptation of "The Little Mermaid" which was in production at the same time as the recently released Disney remake. This version was meant to be a more accurate take on the fairy tale without the changes that Disney made to the ending and could have introduced an entire generation to the lesser-known origin story. However, the movie was canceled due to "creative differences," which were likely in part related to Universal not wanting to compete with Disney's version that would have come out at the same time or to release something so drastically different from what mainstream audiences expected. How many other creative adaptations might have been shut down in preproduction thanks to Disney's creative monopoly? As a result, we are left with an endless onslaught of live-action Disney remakes that pale in comparison to the originals.
Even these lifeless cash grabs are now under fire. Due to the recent labor union strikes on behalf of the Writers Guild of America and the Screen Actors Guild, Hollywood has effectively shut down, bringing all current productions to a halt. This includes Disney's controversial remake of Snow White, which recently turned heads with yet another questionable leak. It's pretty clear that Hollywood isn't as interested in telling good stories as they are in making easy money, and even their employees are seeing that. Writers and actors have gone on strike due to a combination of lower pay as a result of the streaming era and fear of AI taking over their jobs. However, it already feels like many recent movies were written by AI due to their obvious political agendas and predictable outcomes. For instance, Disney could have done something great with The Nutcracker and the Four Realms back in 2018 since "The Nutcracker" was a story they hadn't tackled yet, but instead, they turned it into another trick villain story with a heroine who was so strong and intelligent that she never needed any help, rendering the titular Nutcracker character useless.
Where are princesses left to turn when the screen has forsaken them? Back to their storybook roots, of course. These stories began on the page, and with nowhere else left to turn, they are returning to it. When Disney was in its Renaissance era in the '90s, Gail Carson Levine was the only mainstream author who dared to publish new interpretations of fairy tales in print form beginning with Ella Enchanted , the book that inspired many modern authors to reimagine these classic stories in their own voices. At that time, publishing a book required aspiring authors to send out hundreds or even thousands of query letters to literary agents in the hopes that one might be interested in representing them for a mainstream publisher like Scholastic or HarperCollins. My hopes of becoming a traditionally published author were dashed after I graduated college and found that there were no agents who were interested in helping me get started with my writing career.
Today, anyone can publish their book online thanks to Amazon's Kindle Direct Publishing. The fairy tale author community is incredibly welcoming to new writers. They help to promote each other through collaborative series like Entwined Tales, Once Upon a Prince, and online events that are open to the public like Brittany Fichter's National Tell a Fairy Tale Day. If you are looking for books you can find at your local library, there are also plenty of authors who still publish the old-fashioned way such as Melanie Dickerson. Independent authors offer many perks that traditional ones do not such as free books in exchange for newsletter sign-ups or Advance Reader Copies (ARCs) in exchange for reviews. Diving into the world of modern fairy tale adaptations is easy since these authors work together to advocate for each other. By following one author's newsletter, you will fall into a magical rabbit hole of books, events, and freebies to try out from other writers who do similar work.
As the spotlight dims on screen adaptations and Hollywood faces challenges of creativity and labor unrest, fairy tales and princesses are making a triumphant return to their roots. The power of books as a medium for storytelling is resurging, aided by the rise of independent authors and the accessibility of self-publishing platforms. With a supportive and collaborative community, readers now have a wealth of modern fairy tale adaptations to explore. As the pages turn, these timeless stories find new life and enchantment, reminding us that sometimes the most captivating magic can be found between the covers of a book. So, let us embark on this literary journey and rediscover the wonder and allure that fairy tales and princesses bring, as they leave the screens behind and find solace in the pages of our favorite books.
Disney is not the only studio that produces fairy tale adaptations. Yet, due to the popularity of their films, many other studios who have creative ideas for fairy tale retellings either perform poorly or don't even bother trying. One example of this is the Sofia Coppola adaptation of "The Little Mermaid" which was in production at the same time as the recently released Disney remake. This version was meant to be a more accurate take on the fairy tale without the changes that Disney made to the ending and could have introduced an entire generation to the lesser-known origin story. However, the movie was canceled due to "creative differences," which were likely in part related to Universal not wanting to compete with Disney's version that would have come out at the same time or to release something so drastically different from what mainstream audiences expected. How many other creative adaptations might have been shut down in preproduction thanks to Disney's creative monopoly? As a result, we are left with an endless onslaught of live-action Disney remakes that pale in comparison to the originals.
Even these lifeless cash grabs are now under fire. Due to the recent labor union strikes on behalf of the Writers Guild of America and the Screen Actors Guild, Hollywood has effectively shut down, bringing all current productions to a halt. This includes Disney's controversial remake of Snow White, which recently turned heads with yet another questionable leak. It's pretty clear that Hollywood isn't as interested in telling good stories as they are in making easy money, and even their employees are seeing that. Writers and actors have gone on strike due to a combination of lower pay as a result of the streaming era and fear of AI taking over their jobs. However, it already feels like many recent movies were written by AI due to their obvious political agendas and predictable outcomes. For instance, Disney could have done something great with The Nutcracker and the Four Realms back in 2018 since "The Nutcracker" was a story they hadn't tackled yet, but instead, they turned it into another trick villain story with a heroine who was so strong and intelligent that she never needed any help, rendering the titular Nutcracker character useless.
Where are princesses left to turn when the screen has forsaken them? Back to their storybook roots, of course. These stories began on the page, and with nowhere else left to turn, they are returning to it. When Disney was in its Renaissance era in the '90s, Gail Carson Levine was the only mainstream author who dared to publish new interpretations of fairy tales in print form beginning with Ella Enchanted , the book that inspired many modern authors to reimagine these classic stories in their own voices. At that time, publishing a book required aspiring authors to send out hundreds or even thousands of query letters to literary agents in the hopes that one might be interested in representing them for a mainstream publisher like Scholastic or HarperCollins. My hopes of becoming a traditionally published author were dashed after I graduated college and found that there were no agents who were interested in helping me get started with my writing career.
Today, anyone can publish their book online thanks to Amazon's Kindle Direct Publishing. The fairy tale author community is incredibly welcoming to new writers. They help to promote each other through collaborative series like Entwined Tales, Once Upon a Prince, and online events that are open to the public like Brittany Fichter's National Tell a Fairy Tale Day. If you are looking for books you can find at your local library, there are also plenty of authors who still publish the old-fashioned way such as Melanie Dickerson. Independent authors offer many perks that traditional ones do not such as free books in exchange for newsletter sign-ups or Advance Reader Copies (ARCs) in exchange for reviews. Diving into the world of modern fairy tale adaptations is easy since these authors work together to advocate for each other. By following one author's newsletter, you will fall into a magical rabbit hole of books, events, and freebies to try out from other writers who do similar work.
As the spotlight dims on screen adaptations and Hollywood faces challenges of creativity and labor unrest, fairy tales and princesses are making a triumphant return to their roots. The power of books as a medium for storytelling is resurging, aided by the rise of independent authors and the accessibility of self-publishing platforms. With a supportive and collaborative community, readers now have a wealth of modern fairy tale adaptations to explore. As the pages turn, these timeless stories find new life and enchantment, reminding us that sometimes the most captivating magic can be found between the covers of a book. So, let us embark on this literary journey and rediscover the wonder and allure that fairy tales and princesses bring, as they leave the screens behind and find solace in the pages of our favorite books.
July 16, 2023
Review: The Crownless Prince
As a member of the street team for Once Upon a Prince, an upcoming collaborative series of gender-bent fairy tale retellings, I get to take advantage of some amazing perks. One such perk includes early ARCs of the books from the series, such as
The Crownless Prince
by Selina R. Gonzalez, a gender swap of "Maid Maleen." This book won't be available to the public until December 1st, so it was a real treat to get to read it so soon. "Maid Maleen" had not been a very popular story until Brittany Ficther's retelling, The Seven Years Princess, which likely inspired many authors to realize its potential for adaptations. Selina's version did a better job with the story by coming up with a more believable explanation for elements that made less sense in The Seven Years Princess and incorporated it in a creative way by turning Maid Maleen into a prince named Marcus.
As punishment for loving a princess from an enemy kingdom, Prince Marcus was imprisoned in an enchanted tower with his best friend, Edwin. The punishment was supposed to last for seven long years, but fortunately for them, the enchantment wore off after only four. When the two escaped, they learn that their kingdom had already been conquered and that Princess Adriana's father had sent an assassin to get rid of Marcus so she could marry a more suitable prospect. Heartbroken and defeated, Marcus is ready to move on by accepting work as a servant for Lord Throne, who he never met, and signing a questionable contract. To his dismay, he learns that Lord Thorne is betrothed to his beloved Adrianna, and she is in terrible danger of suffering his violent temper if he cannot stop the marriage in time.
This story does a great job of turning the heroine from the fairy tale into a man without making him come off as a damsel in distress. Though he is heartbroken for a good portion of the book, he takes on an active role in cheating his fate with Edwin's help. The two make a fantastic team through their resourcefulness in always staying one step ahead of the enemy. When Marcus learns of Adriana's plight, he wastes no time in seeking her out and coming up with a plan to defeat Lord Thorne. Marcus's relationship with Adriana is enhanced by little details from their past that only the two of them know about, such as how he used to visit her in secret by climbing up her trellis and their familiarity with each other's companions.
I also liked how this story handled the swap at the end better than other adaptations of "Maid Maleen," in which Maleen is forced to stand in to marry her beloved against her will. It makes more sense that the main character would be marrying their beloved as a ploy against the wicked prospect instead. The only reason it worked in the original story is that the new bride didn't know that Maleen was the prince's former lover, but even then, things worked out all too conveniently. There were also some new themes that were introduced in this version such as being careful about signing contracts that seem unfair and not trusting people who are cruel to their employees. Overall, this book enhances the original fairy tale in an appealing way and makes me eager to read more gender-swapped fairy tales by other authors in this series.
The Crownless Prince by Selina R. Gonzalez presents a captivating gender-bent retelling of "Maid Maleen" in the Once Upon a Prince collaborative series. With early access to this ARC, I was immersed in the story of Marcus, the prince-turned-prisoner, and his determined journey to rescue Princess Adriana from a treacherous fate. The book highlights his resilience and resourcefulness alongside his loyal companion, Edwin. His relationship with Princess Adriana is filled with poignant memories and shared secrets that add depth to their quest. The story cleverly addresses the challenges of swapping roles and offers a more plausible resolution, while introducing new themes of contractual caution and mistrust of cruelty. The Crownless Prince will be available to the public on December 1st with more gender-swapped retellings from this inspired series coming later this year.
As punishment for loving a princess from an enemy kingdom, Prince Marcus was imprisoned in an enchanted tower with his best friend, Edwin. The punishment was supposed to last for seven long years, but fortunately for them, the enchantment wore off after only four. When the two escaped, they learn that their kingdom had already been conquered and that Princess Adriana's father had sent an assassin to get rid of Marcus so she could marry a more suitable prospect. Heartbroken and defeated, Marcus is ready to move on by accepting work as a servant for Lord Throne, who he never met, and signing a questionable contract. To his dismay, he learns that Lord Thorne is betrothed to his beloved Adrianna, and she is in terrible danger of suffering his violent temper if he cannot stop the marriage in time.This story does a great job of turning the heroine from the fairy tale into a man without making him come off as a damsel in distress. Though he is heartbroken for a good portion of the book, he takes on an active role in cheating his fate with Edwin's help. The two make a fantastic team through their resourcefulness in always staying one step ahead of the enemy. When Marcus learns of Adriana's plight, he wastes no time in seeking her out and coming up with a plan to defeat Lord Thorne. Marcus's relationship with Adriana is enhanced by little details from their past that only the two of them know about, such as how he used to visit her in secret by climbing up her trellis and their familiarity with each other's companions.
I also liked how this story handled the swap at the end better than other adaptations of "Maid Maleen," in which Maleen is forced to stand in to marry her beloved against her will. It makes more sense that the main character would be marrying their beloved as a ploy against the wicked prospect instead. The only reason it worked in the original story is that the new bride didn't know that Maleen was the prince's former lover, but even then, things worked out all too conveniently. There were also some new themes that were introduced in this version such as being careful about signing contracts that seem unfair and not trusting people who are cruel to their employees. Overall, this book enhances the original fairy tale in an appealing way and makes me eager to read more gender-swapped fairy tales by other authors in this series.
The Crownless Prince by Selina R. Gonzalez presents a captivating gender-bent retelling of "Maid Maleen" in the Once Upon a Prince collaborative series. With early access to this ARC, I was immersed in the story of Marcus, the prince-turned-prisoner, and his determined journey to rescue Princess Adriana from a treacherous fate. The book highlights his resilience and resourcefulness alongside his loyal companion, Edwin. His relationship with Princess Adriana is filled with poignant memories and shared secrets that add depth to their quest. The story cleverly addresses the challenges of swapping roles and offers a more plausible resolution, while introducing new themes of contractual caution and mistrust of cruelty. The Crownless Prince will be available to the public on December 1st with more gender-swapped retellings from this inspired series coming later this year.
July 15, 2023
Story Saturday: The Betrayed Bride
"The Betrayed Bride"Princess Caroline was elated to finally marry the man she loved, Prince Reynard. Not only had they overcome countless struggles to be together, but their marriage would signify peace between their two kingdoms after endless years of war. She stood at the door to the grand hall in a simple silk gown with a bouquet of pink roses and patiently awaited her queue. After some time, her patience shifted to impatience. She peaked through the crack in the grand doors and saw a large crowd in attendance for the event. Yet, the orchestra did not play, and the attendants looked restless.
"Can you find out if there's something wrong?" she asked a nearby servant. "It should have started by now."
The servant bowed in response, but before he could make a move, Caroline's father burst through the double doors.
"He's not coming," said the king. "The wedding has been called off. You should change out of that gown. It's going to get very crowded when the guests come out here."
Caroline glared at her father. "What do you mean? Of course he's coming!"
"Prince Reynald ran away in the middle of the night. He must have realized the grudge between our two kingdoms was too strong to make peace. I told you this was a bad idea."
Caroline shook her head. She knew beyond a shadow of a doubt that Reynard loved her. Their marriage was more about their love for each other than making peace between their kingdoms. That was just a happy side effect. However, she also knew that no one wanted peace less than their parents. This was her father's handiwork, not Reynard's.
"What have you done to him?" she demanded.
"Me?" Her father feigned offense. "Why would you think I did anything, cupcake? This was supposed to be the happiest day of your life. I had just hoped you would marry someone who didn't hurt you the way he has."
"You mean the way you have!" she snapped.
Caroline turned and ran toward a staircase following her first instinct. Just as she did, the doors burst open, and a large crowd assembled in the hall, blocking the king from following her. As she descended the stairs, she tripped on her wedding dress, tearing the skirt. She gathered her long train into her arms and leaped down two stairs at a time until she found herself in the castle dungeon.
"I demand to see the prisoner!" she told the guard.
The chubby man shook with uncertainty
"But the king said--"
"This is supposed to be my day, so you will obey me unless you wish to be accused of treason!"
"V-very well," stuttered the guard.
Caroline followed him through a narrow passageway to a secluded cell, where Prince Reynard sat dejectedly in a corner. Caroline rushed to Reynard's side and threw her arms around him. "What did they do to you?" she whispered.
Reynard shook his head. "It doesn't matter. We can't be together. Not now, not ever." He reached into his pocket and pulled out a letter. "My father has disowned me for going against his wishes. I'm no longer a prince, and I can never marry you."
Caroline's heart broke as she read the letter. She looked into Reynard's eyes and saw the pain and betrayal he had endured. She thought back to the long years of war between their kingdoms and of all the suffering it had caused. Then she realized that she had the power to bring peace.
"They cannot take away our happiness," she said firmly. She turned back to the guard. "I demand that you free him this instant!"
As the guard fumbled with the keys, her father burst into the room.
"You will do no such thing!" he boomed.
Caroline stepped forward and looked her father in the eye. "I will not let you stop me. I love him, and I will marry him. If you try to stop us, I will make sure the whole world knows what you have done."
The king stared down at his daughter, rage burning in his eyes. "But what about our kingdom's pride? We have never backed down after all these years of disagreements."
"What do you care about more, Father?" Caroline sobbed. "Your pride or your own flesh and blood?"
He sighed. "The guests have already left. This is no way to perform a royal wedding. Your wedding dress is torn, for goodness' sake!"
"None of that matters. If I can be with the man I love, I don't care if I have one guest or a thousand!"
"Is this really what you want?" asked the king.
"I would give up my title as a princess if that's what it takes to be with him."
"That won't be necessary," said her father, nodding to the guard. "Free him."
The guard quickly opened the cell door and Reynard walked out. He looked at Caroline in disbelief. "Is this really happening?"
Caroline smiled and took his hand. "Yes, it is. We will be married in secret, and together we will bring peace to our kingdoms."
And with that, they were married in the darkness of the dungeon, and the people of both kingdoms rejoiced when they heard the news. In the end, love had truly conquered all.
"Can you find out if there's something wrong?" she asked a nearby servant. "It should have started by now."
The servant bowed in response, but before he could make a move, Caroline's father burst through the double doors.
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"He's not coming," said the king. "The wedding has been called off. You should change out of that gown. It's going to get very crowded when the guests come out here."
Caroline glared at her father. "What do you mean? Of course he's coming!"
"Prince Reynald ran away in the middle of the night. He must have realized the grudge between our two kingdoms was too strong to make peace. I told you this was a bad idea."
Caroline shook her head. She knew beyond a shadow of a doubt that Reynard loved her. Their marriage was more about their love for each other than making peace between their kingdoms. That was just a happy side effect. However, she also knew that no one wanted peace less than their parents. This was her father's handiwork, not Reynard's.
"What have you done to him?" she demanded.
"Me?" Her father feigned offense. "Why would you think I did anything, cupcake? This was supposed to be the happiest day of your life. I had just hoped you would marry someone who didn't hurt you the way he has."
"You mean the way you have!" she snapped.
Caroline turned and ran toward a staircase following her first instinct. Just as she did, the doors burst open, and a large crowd assembled in the hall, blocking the king from following her. As she descended the stairs, she tripped on her wedding dress, tearing the skirt. She gathered her long train into her arms and leaped down two stairs at a time until she found herself in the castle dungeon.
"I demand to see the prisoner!" she told the guard.
The chubby man shook with uncertainty
"But the king said--"
"This is supposed to be my day, so you will obey me unless you wish to be accused of treason!"
"V-very well," stuttered the guard.
Caroline followed him through a narrow passageway to a secluded cell, where Prince Reynard sat dejectedly in a corner. Caroline rushed to Reynard's side and threw her arms around him. "What did they do to you?" she whispered.
Reynard shook his head. "It doesn't matter. We can't be together. Not now, not ever." He reached into his pocket and pulled out a letter. "My father has disowned me for going against his wishes. I'm no longer a prince, and I can never marry you."
Caroline's heart broke as she read the letter. She looked into Reynard's eyes and saw the pain and betrayal he had endured. She thought back to the long years of war between their kingdoms and of all the suffering it had caused. Then she realized that she had the power to bring peace.
"They cannot take away our happiness," she said firmly. She turned back to the guard. "I demand that you free him this instant!"
As the guard fumbled with the keys, her father burst into the room.
"You will do no such thing!" he boomed.
Caroline stepped forward and looked her father in the eye. "I will not let you stop me. I love him, and I will marry him. If you try to stop us, I will make sure the whole world knows what you have done."
The king stared down at his daughter, rage burning in his eyes. "But what about our kingdom's pride? We have never backed down after all these years of disagreements."
"What do you care about more, Father?" Caroline sobbed. "Your pride or your own flesh and blood?"
He sighed. "The guests have already left. This is no way to perform a royal wedding. Your wedding dress is torn, for goodness' sake!"
"None of that matters. If I can be with the man I love, I don't care if I have one guest or a thousand!"
"Is this really what you want?" asked the king.
"I would give up my title as a princess if that's what it takes to be with him."
"That won't be necessary," said her father, nodding to the guard. "Free him."
The guard quickly opened the cell door and Reynard walked out. He looked at Caroline in disbelief. "Is this really happening?"
Caroline smiled and took his hand. "Yes, it is. We will be married in secret, and together we will bring peace to our kingdoms."
And with that, they were married in the darkness of the dungeon, and the people of both kingdoms rejoiced when they heard the news. In the end, love had truly conquered all.
July 9, 2023
3 Craft Ideas for Little Princesses
I don't have anything to review this week, so I'm going to try something a little different. Since my new job involves working with small children, I've come up with some ideas for fun crafts that girls who love princesses can do at home. Not everyone has a 3D printer, but there are smaller things that children can do at home with affordable materials. For princess crafts, it's best to look for craft supplies that sparkle or shimmer such as glitter, sequins, plastic gems, or metallic paper. Here are some ideas that I've done in the past or have seen at events.Decorate/Make Your Own Tiara
You will need:A foam tiara with decorative gemsORMetallic posterboard with sequins or gemsScissors
Every princess needs her signature crown! There are many affordable sets of foam tiaras available in various colors and styles that come with stick-on gems so princesses can customize them in a way that is unique to their own personal tastes. For further customization, make a template of whatever tiara shape you desire and trace it onto a piece of metallic posterboard. If the posterboard isn't wide enough to fit around the child's head, you can make the main part of the tiara on one piece and cut strips with notches on the ends to attach to the sides and connect around the princess's head. Gold metallic posterboard can create a very convincing Princess Aurora crown on its own or can be further embellished with sequins and gems.Make Your Own Lady-in-Waiting Hat
You will need:Colorful construction paperScissorsTape or staplerThick flowing ribbonsString or elasticGlitter, sequins, gems, or other sparkly accents
A princess's court is never complete without her ladies-in-waiting! If your princess is celebrating a special day like a birthday and wants to be the only one with a tiara, her friends can still get in on the fun by joining her court with these regal cone-shaped hats that were popular in the middle ages. You can create this ship by cutting a semi-circle out of construction paper in the color of your choice and wrapping one-half of the straight section over the other so they create a point in the middle, forming a cone with the semi-circle rounding out the bottom. Before you attach the sides together, you can place a pretty ribbon inside the cone so it flows out from the tip to form a graceful effect. Decorate it with whatever sparkly baubles you can find, and attach a string or elastic underneath so it can stay secure under the lady-in-waiting's chin.Make Your Own Wand
You will need:Heavy-duty straws or wooden dowelsScissorsPosterboard or die-cut shapes such as stars, hearts, or moonsTape or hot glueThin shimmery ribbonGlitter sequins, gems, or anything sparkly
Not every princess has time to wait around to be rescued. Some days, she'll want to become a magical girl and take matters into her own hands. Fortunately, making a magic wand to fend off evil is simple. All you'll need is an iridescent straw or dowel for the base and a pretty shape like a star, heart, or moon to affix to the top with tape or hot glue. For maximum sturdiness, it's best to cut two copies of the same shape out of posterboard or construction paper and attach them back-to-back on both sides of the base. Once the main part of the wand is complete, you can tie a thin shimmery ribbon near the top so it will flow with the wand when it gets waved for an extra magical effect. Don't forget to bedazzle it with sequins, glitter, or gems anywhere that looks good!
These princess craft ideas provide an engaging and creative outlet for children to express their imagination and love for all things princess. From making paper crowns and tiaras to creating magical wands, these crafts offer a wide range of activities that can be enjoyed individually or in group settings. By participating in these crafts, children can develop their fine motor skills, express their artistic abilities, and engage in imaginative play. These crafts are not only fun, but they also encourage children to embrace their inner royalty and create lasting memories. Remember, adult supervision is recommended during any crafting activities involving small or potentially harmful materials. Do you have a favorite princess craft? Let me know in the comments!
You will need:A foam tiara with decorative gemsORMetallic posterboard with sequins or gemsScissorsEvery princess needs her signature crown! There are many affordable sets of foam tiaras available in various colors and styles that come with stick-on gems so princesses can customize them in a way that is unique to their own personal tastes. For further customization, make a template of whatever tiara shape you desire and trace it onto a piece of metallic posterboard. If the posterboard isn't wide enough to fit around the child's head, you can make the main part of the tiara on one piece and cut strips with notches on the ends to attach to the sides and connect around the princess's head. Gold metallic posterboard can create a very convincing Princess Aurora crown on its own or can be further embellished with sequins and gems.Make Your Own Lady-in-Waiting Hat
You will need:Colorful construction paperScissorsTape or staplerThick flowing ribbonsString or elasticGlitter, sequins, gems, or other sparkly accents
A princess's court is never complete without her ladies-in-waiting! If your princess is celebrating a special day like a birthday and wants to be the only one with a tiara, her friends can still get in on the fun by joining her court with these regal cone-shaped hats that were popular in the middle ages. You can create this ship by cutting a semi-circle out of construction paper in the color of your choice and wrapping one-half of the straight section over the other so they create a point in the middle, forming a cone with the semi-circle rounding out the bottom. Before you attach the sides together, you can place a pretty ribbon inside the cone so it flows out from the tip to form a graceful effect. Decorate it with whatever sparkly baubles you can find, and attach a string or elastic underneath so it can stay secure under the lady-in-waiting's chin.Make Your Own Wand
You will need:Heavy-duty straws or wooden dowelsScissorsPosterboard or die-cut shapes such as stars, hearts, or moonsTape or hot glueThin shimmery ribbonGlitter sequins, gems, or anything sparklyNot every princess has time to wait around to be rescued. Some days, she'll want to become a magical girl and take matters into her own hands. Fortunately, making a magic wand to fend off evil is simple. All you'll need is an iridescent straw or dowel for the base and a pretty shape like a star, heart, or moon to affix to the top with tape or hot glue. For maximum sturdiness, it's best to cut two copies of the same shape out of posterboard or construction paper and attach them back-to-back on both sides of the base. Once the main part of the wand is complete, you can tie a thin shimmery ribbon near the top so it will flow with the wand when it gets waved for an extra magical effect. Don't forget to bedazzle it with sequins, glitter, or gems anywhere that looks good!
These princess craft ideas provide an engaging and creative outlet for children to express their imagination and love for all things princess. From making paper crowns and tiaras to creating magical wands, these crafts offer a wide range of activities that can be enjoyed individually or in group settings. By participating in these crafts, children can develop their fine motor skills, express their artistic abilities, and engage in imaginative play. These crafts are not only fun, but they also encourage children to embrace their inner royalty and create lasting memories. Remember, adult supervision is recommended during any crafting activities involving small or potentially harmful materials. Do you have a favorite princess craft? Let me know in the comments!
July 8, 2023
Story Saturday: The Lost Siren Song
"The Lost Siren Song"
Once upon a time, in the depths of a shimmering ocean, there lived a water faery named Kaia. Her translucent skin sparkled like the sunlight dancing on the waves. While her sisters were content to spend their days creating rain storms and typhoons, Kaia had always dreamt of singing with the sirens on the enchanted island of Anthemusa, a place where magnificent melodies filled the air.
Among the sirens, there was one who captivated Kaia more than any other - Princess Su-Lynn. She possessed a voice so enchanting that when she sang, the sailors who heard her would fall under her spell, remaining by her side forever.
Kaia admired many things about Su-Lynn, including how she effortlessly commanded the attention of the sea, and how she used her captivating songs to allure sailors and ensure the island's prosperity. The sirens on Anthemusa depended on the sailors they charmed to help maintain their beautiful homes, provide them with food, and gather resources from the island that were vital to their way of life.
Kaia knew that she didn't belong with her faery sisters. She was meant for something greater--to live a life of luxury like the sirens that she so admired. One day, when her sisters formed a storm that attacked a ship passing near Anthemusa, Kaia snuck off to approach the sirens who lured the drowning sailors to their island, saving them from a watery grave. Oblivious to their task, Kaia approached Su-Lynn, who sang lovingly to a handsome sailor guiding him out of the storm.
"Princess Su-Lynn, I wish to learn your art," Kaia said, her voice infused with a mix of determination and admiration.
Su-Lynn huffed at Kaia's momentary distraction, which caused the sailor to succumb to the violent waves formed by the water faeries.
"You insufferable pixie!" Su-Lynn cried, "The songs of the sirens possess a power that extends beyond mere beauty. They hold the ability to ensnare the hearts of those who hear them. You are not worthy of such great power! Look how much trouble you and your sisters have caused this poor soldier! Now I must take matters into my own hands!"
When Su-Lynn dove into the water, her legs merged into a sparkling blue mermaid tail, adding to the graceful beauty that Kaia so admired. Su-Lynn swam after the sailor and caught him just before the ocean expunged his last breath. She tried to return to the shore, but the waves were too choppy. Seeing her plight, Kaia calmed the sea around Su-Lynn, allowing her to bring the sailor safely ashore.
Once he was safely back on land, Su-Lynn's tail split a pair of legs swathed in glistening blue silk. She sang her beautiful song to the sailor that tied his heart to hers. He introduced himself as Finn, and she learned that he was a kind and adventurous spirit that made her love him all the more.
"Now that I've helped you rescue your sailor, won't you teach me how to sing like you?" Kaia begged.
Su-Lynn felt her heart soften the more she got to know Finn even though he had no song of his own, and in her gracious mood, she agreed to grant Kaia's request.
Under Su-Lynn's guidance, Kaia began her journey to master the art of the siren's song. Every day, she would practice beside the sea, pouring her heart into each note, seeking the magical power the sirens possessed.
There came a moment when Kaia, filled with confidence, decided to use her enchanting voice to cast her own spell. As she sang, a strange thing occurred - the sailors, who were once bound to Su-Lynn's song, began to awaken from their trance. Kaia had shattered the hypnotic hold the sirens had over them.
News of Kaia's unique ability soon reached Su-Lynn's ears. Fearful that Kaia's power would lead to the loss of Finn, the siren princess confronted the water faery.
"You are a threat to my love," Su-Lynn said, her eyes brimming with sadness. "I won't let you take away what belongs to me!"
Tears welled up in Kaia's eyes as she realized the distress she had caused. "Su-Lynn, Finn loves you even without the siren's spell. But it isn't right to enslave every sailor who gets stranded on Anthemusa. Can't we use our magic to help them instead?"
In a fit of rage, Su-Lynn banished Kaia from the island, telling her that her song was poison and that she never should have agreed to teach it to her. Yet, as she reflected on Kaia's words during the passing days, she realized that her friendship with the faery had a spark of truth to it that none of the other sirens felt with the sailors they had possessed. She decided to use her song to learn more about them instead of asking them for favors, and she learned that many of them had families that they were long separated from. At last, Su-Lynn felt the weight of Kaia's words on her shoulders and summoned her and her faery sisters to return to the island right the wrongs that the sirens had caused.
"I thought you said you never wanted to see me again," said Kaia, crossing her arms in a fit after having to return to the sisters who had scorned her for so many years. "Did you bring me back here to mock me, or have you actually reconsidered my offer?"
"I have," Su-Lynn whispered, finally meeting Kaia's gaze. "We shall use our powers to aid the passing ships and liberate the sailors ensnared by our enchantments."
And so, Kaia and Su-Lynn joined forces, using their majestic voices to guide lost sailors safely through treacherous waters. They unleashed their magic only to heal, restore hope, and free those who had been held captive by the sirens' spell.
As time went on, the island of Anthemusa transformed from a place of captivity into a beacon of compassion. The enchanted sirens and water faeries worked side by side, mending the wounds caused by their previous actions.
In the end, Finn remained with Su-Lynn, his love for her transcending any spell. The sirens, once feared for their hypnotic powers, became known for their kindness and willingness to protect those who sailed through their waters.
And so, guided by their newfound purpose, Kaia and Su-Lynn continued their mission, bringing hope and freedom to every sailor who dared venture near the shores of Anthemusa. Together, they wove a tapestry of harmony, reminding the world that even in the darkest depths, love and compassion could conquer all.
Author's Note: This story was inspired by an old outline for a book I made over a decade ago that I never ended up writing. It was meant to be a spiritual successor to the book I had published about a fire faery called Rebirth: A Faery's Tale. "The Long Siren Song" was created by entering a prompt of the idea into a ChatGPT app and altered for better readability and characterization.
Once upon a time, in the depths of a shimmering ocean, there lived a water faery named Kaia. Her translucent skin sparkled like the sunlight dancing on the waves. While her sisters were content to spend their days creating rain storms and typhoons, Kaia had always dreamt of singing with the sirens on the enchanted island of Anthemusa, a place where magnificent melodies filled the air.
Among the sirens, there was one who captivated Kaia more than any other - Princess Su-Lynn. She possessed a voice so enchanting that when she sang, the sailors who heard her would fall under her spell, remaining by her side forever.
Kaia admired many things about Su-Lynn, including how she effortlessly commanded the attention of the sea, and how she used her captivating songs to allure sailors and ensure the island's prosperity. The sirens on Anthemusa depended on the sailors they charmed to help maintain their beautiful homes, provide them with food, and gather resources from the island that were vital to their way of life.
Kaia knew that she didn't belong with her faery sisters. She was meant for something greater--to live a life of luxury like the sirens that she so admired. One day, when her sisters formed a storm that attacked a ship passing near Anthemusa, Kaia snuck off to approach the sirens who lured the drowning sailors to their island, saving them from a watery grave. Oblivious to their task, Kaia approached Su-Lynn, who sang lovingly to a handsome sailor guiding him out of the storm.
"Princess Su-Lynn, I wish to learn your art," Kaia said, her voice infused with a mix of determination and admiration.
Su-Lynn huffed at Kaia's momentary distraction, which caused the sailor to succumb to the violent waves formed by the water faeries.
"You insufferable pixie!" Su-Lynn cried, "The songs of the sirens possess a power that extends beyond mere beauty. They hold the ability to ensnare the hearts of those who hear them. You are not worthy of such great power! Look how much trouble you and your sisters have caused this poor soldier! Now I must take matters into my own hands!"
When Su-Lynn dove into the water, her legs merged into a sparkling blue mermaid tail, adding to the graceful beauty that Kaia so admired. Su-Lynn swam after the sailor and caught him just before the ocean expunged his last breath. She tried to return to the shore, but the waves were too choppy. Seeing her plight, Kaia calmed the sea around Su-Lynn, allowing her to bring the sailor safely ashore.
Once he was safely back on land, Su-Lynn's tail split a pair of legs swathed in glistening blue silk. She sang her beautiful song to the sailor that tied his heart to hers. He introduced himself as Finn, and she learned that he was a kind and adventurous spirit that made her love him all the more.
"Now that I've helped you rescue your sailor, won't you teach me how to sing like you?" Kaia begged.
Su-Lynn felt her heart soften the more she got to know Finn even though he had no song of his own, and in her gracious mood, she agreed to grant Kaia's request.
Under Su-Lynn's guidance, Kaia began her journey to master the art of the siren's song. Every day, she would practice beside the sea, pouring her heart into each note, seeking the magical power the sirens possessed.
There came a moment when Kaia, filled with confidence, decided to use her enchanting voice to cast her own spell. As she sang, a strange thing occurred - the sailors, who were once bound to Su-Lynn's song, began to awaken from their trance. Kaia had shattered the hypnotic hold the sirens had over them.
News of Kaia's unique ability soon reached Su-Lynn's ears. Fearful that Kaia's power would lead to the loss of Finn, the siren princess confronted the water faery.
"You are a threat to my love," Su-Lynn said, her eyes brimming with sadness. "I won't let you take away what belongs to me!"
Tears welled up in Kaia's eyes as she realized the distress she had caused. "Su-Lynn, Finn loves you even without the siren's spell. But it isn't right to enslave every sailor who gets stranded on Anthemusa. Can't we use our magic to help them instead?"
In a fit of rage, Su-Lynn banished Kaia from the island, telling her that her song was poison and that she never should have agreed to teach it to her. Yet, as she reflected on Kaia's words during the passing days, she realized that her friendship with the faery had a spark of truth to it that none of the other sirens felt with the sailors they had possessed. She decided to use her song to learn more about them instead of asking them for favors, and she learned that many of them had families that they were long separated from. At last, Su-Lynn felt the weight of Kaia's words on her shoulders and summoned her and her faery sisters to return to the island right the wrongs that the sirens had caused.
"I thought you said you never wanted to see me again," said Kaia, crossing her arms in a fit after having to return to the sisters who had scorned her for so many years. "Did you bring me back here to mock me, or have you actually reconsidered my offer?"
"I have," Su-Lynn whispered, finally meeting Kaia's gaze. "We shall use our powers to aid the passing ships and liberate the sailors ensnared by our enchantments."
And so, Kaia and Su-Lynn joined forces, using their majestic voices to guide lost sailors safely through treacherous waters. They unleashed their magic only to heal, restore hope, and free those who had been held captive by the sirens' spell.
As time went on, the island of Anthemusa transformed from a place of captivity into a beacon of compassion. The enchanted sirens and water faeries worked side by side, mending the wounds caused by their previous actions.
In the end, Finn remained with Su-Lynn, his love for her transcending any spell. The sirens, once feared for their hypnotic powers, became known for their kindness and willingness to protect those who sailed through their waters.
And so, guided by their newfound purpose, Kaia and Su-Lynn continued their mission, bringing hope and freedom to every sailor who dared venture near the shores of Anthemusa. Together, they wove a tapestry of harmony, reminding the world that even in the darkest depths, love and compassion could conquer all.
Author's Note: This story was inspired by an old outline for a book I made over a decade ago that I never ended up writing. It was meant to be a spiritual successor to the book I had published about a fire faery called Rebirth: A Faery's Tale. "The Long Siren Song" was created by entering a prompt of the idea into a ChatGPT app and altered for better readability and characterization.
