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Princess Monroe & Her Happily Ever After

"I am a Princess AND a Warrior." Do you have a daughter who sports tutus and converse shoes with a sword swung over her back? Then she's going to LOVE Princess Monroe, a princess who saves herself!
Princess Monroe is more than just a princess. She's an independent girl with lots of different interests. While her Queen Mom has ideas of finding her a prince, Monroe wants to explore, learn, play, get dirty, and find her own way in the world. As the princess continues to prove that she can do anything she wants, without being saved by a prince, her mom starts to listen. 

Ultimately, Monroe finds her own happy ending.

If you're tired of reading fairy tales about princesses who need a prince to rescue them to your daughter, this spunky little bi-racial princess is the answer for you. 
Get your copy now!

34 pages, Hardcover

Published October 11, 2022

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Jody Smith

1 book3 followers

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5 stars
18 (62%)
4 stars
9 (31%)
3 stars
1 (3%)
2 stars
1 (3%)
1 star
0 (0%)
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
Profile Image for Michelle.
995 reviews133 followers
December 2, 2021
Princess Monroe aspires to be so much more than just royalty who prances around looking glamorous all of the time. Just once she’d like to relax in some comfy clothes or go outside and play ball with the other kids and get dirty.

Although she appreciates everything she has and knows that she is very lucky, she hopes that there is more to life than simply waiting around for a prince to come and sweep her off her feet. She knows that her mother was once a figure skater before meeting the King and she longs to do something, anything a NORMAL kid her age would.

I really appreciated the inter-racial marriage in this fairytale. I don’t think that mixed race gets portrayed enough in kid’s books. I do wish that the author didn’t try as hard to make everything rhyme and instead focused more on the story making a little more sense.

The illustrations are stunning ! 🍄🌺

Thank you to Love Books Tours, Jody Smith, Glynise Martin & Purple Butterfly Press for my #gifted copy and this special moment 💜

#kidsbooks #childrensbooks #childrensbookillustration #bookreview #bookrecommendation #bookstagram #readersofinstagram #reader #niece #teachthemyoung #overbooked #overbookedbookclub #beyondoverbooked #katbiggiepress #booktour #youngreaders #bookholic #bookhoarder

Profile Image for Julie.
914 reviews164 followers
September 7, 2018
What I loved about Princess Monroe is the lesson to little girls (and really, anyone) that you can be anything and anyone you want in life. Princess Monroe is royalty, so there are certain expectations for her behavior and "appropriate" activities. But she is everything but a normal princess. She wants to do it all, to try it all, and experience it all. And the best part? The support from her mother is tremendous. This is a great children's book to empower young ladies and to teach children of both genders to be true to you.
Profile Image for Ciayrra The Scorpion Flower.
318 reviews4 followers
September 3, 2018
This was a very nice story. Very different from the traditional princess books. Wish it was around when I was little. Beautiful illustrations!
1 review
September 11, 2018
Princess Monroe is the kind of fairy tale we've all been waiting for!

As a mother on a quest to live what I call my E.P.I.C. life, my journey began by listening to my own inner voice. Princess Monroe turns the typical princess story on its head, by listening to hers, sharing honestly with her mother about what she really wants in her life, and choosing to save herself.

From the moment I opened the book, I was enchanted by this story and the beautiful illustrations, finding myself inspired by Monroe's connection to herself, her interests, and her ability to chart her own path.

But, I also loved reading this book with my 6 year old son, who at first scoffed at the idea of reading a book about a Princess, and then realized this is a story for him too. I think sharing the book with our boys especially, helping them connect to the idea of their own inner voice, and building their awareness about the importance of women's empowerment and independence is essential for their well-being and to raise boys who know how to acknowledge the power of women.

This is one to buy several copies of and share with your friends and family!

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author for this review. All opinions, as always, are my own.
Profile Image for Bethany M. Edwards.
78 reviews20 followers
September 11, 2018
I loved reading page after page of this book where Princess Monroe speaks her truth. She stands up and speaks out when she wants to explore and learn vs. sit back and wait for permission.
This is a love letter to all the girls to use their powerful voice that resides within them, and a strong message to boys that girls are saying so many things worth listening to.
Equity and opportunity are the lovely themes of this book. I for one, raising two girls myself, know that there is never too many books of this nature to encourage and inspire girls to dream BIG and never let other peoples limitations stop them from doing anything they desire.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author for this review. All opinions, as always, are my own.
Profile Image for Rajiv.
1,009 reviews69 followers
December 6, 2021

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“Princess Monroe & Her Happily Ever After” is a beautiful children’s novel that tells young readers to dream big!

Firstly, I commend the author for writing such a sweet and inspiring children’s book. I loved the concept of the story, and I feel it would resonate even with adults. From children to adults, we are told by family and society what path to take and what to do. While we have responsibilities to perform, the book emphasizes that it is never too late to dream big and follow your dreams.

In this book, Princess Monroe has to act like a prim and proper princess, look pretty, and wait for Prince Charming. However, she longs for adventure and has many interests that she likes to test. From rock climbing to sustainable farming, Roe wants to try it all! I adored her curiosity and eagerness to step out of her comfort zone. Moreover, I loved her relationship with her mother, The Queen. The two of them talk like friends, and I loved how encouraging the mother was towards her.

Furthermore, the illustrations by Glynise Martin were gorgeous. The colors contrast beautifully and make the story stand out. I particularly loved Roe’s expressions as she imagined being a pirate or a pet doctor. I hope the author and the illustrator branch this into a series because I would love to read more about Princess Monroe and what happens to her.

Overall, “Princess Monroe & Her Happily Ever After” is a splendid children’s book that children will enjoy reading for the colorful drawings and inspire adults.
Profile Image for Sara Blanchard.
Author 4 books3 followers
September 12, 2018
As a mother of two daughters, I am a HUGE fan of books that empower them to think, be brave, be strong, and be inspired. After all, my work is all about raising consciousness, supporting strong women and mothers, and helping people trust their inner truth.

Well, Princess Monroe does all of these things, with a mixed race family to boot - and it’s a book moms of daughters should buy right now to include on their kids’ bookshelves.

As I thumbed through the beautifully illustrated pages (honestly, for a book that talks about not just being a pretty princess, it’s an incredibly pretty book), one song played in my mind. Daya’s “Sit Still, Look Pretty” – or at least, the innocent, PG interpretation of that song.

Princess Monroe is more than JUST a princess. While she likes “princessing,” she finds it a bit boring. Monroe is more interested in learning, playing and building stuff. She has dreams of traveling to Paris, rescuing puppies and becoming a scientist. In her spare time, she likes to rock climb, dance and garden. So instead of being saved by Prince Charming like every other fairytale, Monroe is going to save herself first.

YEEESSSSSSSSSSS!

And it’s not just about the princess. Another huge thing this book has going for it is the relationship that Monroe has with her mother. I’m a strong mama, I advocate for listening deeply to your children, and stepping out of their way when their spirit shines through – and I am SUPER impressed that in this book, Queen Mom plays just that role. She communicates with and listens to her daughter; she doesn’t talk down to or dominate her child, but learns from her, supports her, and is even inspired by her.

So excited to meet this new character on the children’s book scene – and I’m looking forward to many more sequels!
Profile Image for Samantha (bookstasamm).
1,084 reviews84 followers
November 28, 2021
"I am a Princess AND a Warrior."

Princess Monroe is more than just a princess. She's an independent girl with lots of different interests. While her Queen Mom has ideas of finding her a prince, Monroe wants to explore, learn, play, get dirty, and find her own way in the world. As the princess continues to prove that she can do anything she wants, without being saved by a prince, her mom starts to listen. 

Ultimately, Monroe finds her own happy ending.

This was such a great story to teach young girls about empowerment and choosing their own path in life. Princess Monroe is not your typical princess. She might like the pretty dresses, but she also wants to run and play and enjoy the world in her own way. She doesn’t just want to find a prince because that isn’t her happily ever after.

I loved the way this story was written and the illustrations were great. Princess Monroe is a great role model for young girls to help them know they can do whatever they want in life. This is a great fairytale and Monroe is the type of Princess we’ve all been waiting for!

I don’t have children, but recommend this for parents who want to teach their children empowerment and how to be brave and strong while making their own choices.

Thank you Love Books Tours for a gifted copy in exchange for my honest review.
Profile Image for Aminata Coote.
Author 113 books71 followers
August 30, 2018
Princess Monroe is a delightful alternative to the typical princess story. Our daughters learn that even princesses can have big dreams and do great things.

I liked the way this book proposed a number of alternate careers like sustainable farming. The book is beautifully illustrated.

A fun quick read.

I received an ARC as part of the Princess Monroe launch team; a positive review was not required.
72 reviews
December 11, 2021
Princess MONROE and her happily ever after👸🏽

For ages 4 to 8 years old

This is a story about a princess who wants to be more than a princess waiting around for a prince. Princess Monroe has aspirations and wants to break out of the traditional role. Luckily her Queen mom really hears her, and after knowing a life of waiting, wants to support her daughter in whatever she wants to do.

This was definitely a different kind of princess story from any I've read before and I loved it. I really liked the rhyming aspect and the illustrations were bright and beautiful. I thought it was great that it showed an inter-racial family unit to bring more diversity into young children's books.
This book was a brilliant way to introduce female empowerment to young children. The traditional princess stories have led to lots of young girls growing up believing they need to be rescued by a prince. When actually all they need is to believe in themselves and be who they want to be and then they won't feel the need to be rescued by anyone. I would definitely recommend this book for all young children but especially for every little girl who dreams of becoming a princess.

I was gifted this ebook as part of a book tour for an honest review. Thank you to all those involved for letting me be a part of this.
Profile Image for Nicola Hancock.
554 reviews7 followers
November 29, 2021
Wow the detail in the illustrations were delightful, colourful, detailed and beautiful. From the moment I started reading this I thought the facial expressions were wonderful they made me giggle and smile a lot at the way the princess expressed herself with the words written.

It also made me laugh at the taking selfies and reminded me that this is the now thing to do so is definitely with the times. I loved how it highlights that princess want to normal things and be normal people and don’t want to just sit around and wait to be married off. Just because your a princess or a girl at that matter doesn’t mean you can’t get muddy make a mess and have to wear what girls are expected to wear.

I loved the relationship with the mother and Monroe challenging her to say what she wants to do with life. As a parent it’s important to be accepting on whatever choices your child makes. I thought it was really cute whatever the illustrations were whether a pirate or shopping and climbing the princess and the queen still had their crowns on. This was a beautiful touch.

I thought this book was adventurous, creative and purely brilliant. All girls should read this if their little princesses or little Tom boys it was lush.
Profile Image for Latisha’s Low-key Life.
560 reviews20 followers
December 10, 2021
👸Princess Monroe & Her Happily Ever After
👸Author - Jody Smith
👸Illustrator - Glynise Martin
👸Children’s Fiction/Female Empowerment
👸Ages 4-8
👸34 Pages

👸Short Synopsis

👸Princess Monroe & Her Happily Ever After is a story of a beautiful princess who wants to experience life instead of sitting and waiting.

👸My Thoughts

👸When I first opened this book, I wasn’t impressed with the illustrations. As a BIG illustration lover, my first impression was that I wouldn’t like it. Boy, was I wrong!

👸Now I don’t even know why I didn’t like the illustrations at first glance. They are bold and colorful, just perfect to represent this story.

👸The story is beautifully written. It shows the very real connection between mother and daughter. It supports open communication. It shows all the things girls are capable of. It is a special story!

👸Thank you to Love Books Tours, the author, & the publisher for providing this book for me to read & review.

#AD #Gifted

Go to Latishaslowkeylife.com for more mind blowing reviews!
Profile Image for Tristen.
1,034 reviews18 followers
December 10, 2021
Monroe is a princess, but she wants more for her life. She doesn’t want to just wait around for her prince to come and sweep her off her feet. She wants to play hockey, learn to paint, and live life to its fullest.

I adored the communication between mother and daughter. Monroe was able to tell her Mother the Queen her dreams and aspirations, and her mother supported her and loved her. She found a way for her to live her predestined life, but still experience the things she wanted to experience. The illustrations in this book are so beautiful! So bright and colorful, and that’s initially what drew me in to this story.

I loved reading this book with my “Princess” and discussing her hopes and dreams. Be sure to pick up this book for any Princess you have in your life! You’ll find yourself picking it up over and over again.

Thank you so much to @lovebooktours and @jodyvalleesmith for the advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

#Ad #Gifted 
Profile Image for Laura.
2,558 reviews
September 14, 2018
This is a great children’s book that was written by author Jody Smith. Princess Monroe is more than just a princess. She's an independent girl with lots of different interests. While her Queen Mom has ideas of finding her a prince, Monroe wants to explore, learn, play, get dirty, and find her own way in the world. As the princess continues to prove that she can do anything she wants, without being saved by a prince, her mom starts to listen. Ultimately, Monroe finds her own happy ending. This is a great book with a wonderful story and well developed characters. The story flowed very well and was very enjoyable. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader’s copy of this book. The free book held no determination on my personal review.
Profile Image for Clairey Stanhope.
129 reviews5 followers
December 8, 2021
When a book is this sweet. You just have to share it.

I have two young princesses and we have always told them to think big but remember life is the journey not the destination. Stop and appreciate life on the way.

But remember the only thing to stop you is you.

I wish this book was around when they were small.

Because that’s what this book is all about. And more. You are more than one thing.

Couple this lovely story with amazing modern illustrations (love the selfie picture lol). You have a modern day empowering classic that all children need to know. You can be anything your hearts desire.

I highly highly recommend this gem. Such a great book that I am now off to get a physical copy for my bookcase at work.

Profile Image for Melissa.
1,200 reviews15 followers
September 15, 2018
This is a sweet book. I like how it teaches girls they can be whatever they would like to be and it promotes that a girl can enjoy "girlie" things as well as things more thought of for boys. My daughter often struggles with that and I enjoyed seeing it. The illustrations were also beautiful. Overall, I would recommend this book and so would my 7-year-old daughter.
Profile Image for Elizabeth Day.
Author 1 book25 followers
November 24, 2021
*spoilers?*
It’s my pleasure to review this book as a part of Love Books Tours!
My favorite part of this book is the illustrations. They are SO pretty and the art style is just lovely to me. It’s also sweet to see a girl and her mom talk about dreams for the future, and to see the dreams of a girl and what she’s capable of. I liked that Roe highlighted the parts of princess life that she liked, while also saying she had more that she wanted. I think the most important thing to teach girls is that they can be WHATEVER they want to be, anything and EVERYTHING. It’s important to not force roles on girls or teach them to rely fully on men, but I think society sometimes falls into the trap of pushing away traditionally feminine roles and falling in love with a man, and other things like that. I think this book fell into that trap a little bit, and thus I think is not the feminist icon it is claiming to be. Still a sweet book, though.
(G rating)
Profile Image for Liliana.
Author 17 books36 followers
August 14, 2024
What a beautiful story! I love the great message that we can choose to be whatever we dream of becoming. The illustrations were lovely too. Overall, I loved this book. It has such a wonderful and positive message for children.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews