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The Royal Rebel
REBEL. PRINCESS. SUFFRAGETTE.
Born in 1876, Princess Sophia Duleep Singh was the daughter of the last Sikh ruler of the Punjab and goddaughter of Queen Victoria. After her father lost control of his empire and was exiled to England, Sophia had a privileged but troubled upbringing that left her unsure about where she belonged - in India or England. Sensitive to injustice, she became a Suffragette and fought hard to win the vote for women.
This is the extraordinary story of her life.
Born in 1876, Princess Sophia Duleep Singh was the daughter of the last Sikh ruler of the Punjab and goddaughter of Queen Victoria. After her father lost control of his empire and was exiled to England, Sophia had a privileged but troubled upbringing that left her unsure about where she belonged - in India or England. Sensitive to injustice, she became a Suffragette and fought hard to win the vote for women.
This is the extraordinary story of her life.
131 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2021
6 people are currently reading
131 people want to read
About the author
Bali Rai
79 books73 followersBali Rai was born in 1971 and grew up in Leicester. As a child, Bali wanted to be a footballer or to write stories. Always an avid reader, he hails Sue Townsend, Douglas Adams and Robert Swindells as his writing heroes. Bali grew up reading Dr Seuss and Meg and Mog and his first book purchase was The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe. He realised he wasn't good enough to play for Liverpool F.C. and after gaining a politics degree in London he returned to his home city and combined a variety of jobs in pubs and clubs with completing his first novel. Bali set about writing a story he had been thinking about for many years. He wanted to write accessible material for children of all ages and backgrounds and realising there were no British Asian authors writing for children, he saw a gap. Bali hopes his novels capture the unique ethnic mix of the UK, of which he is proud to be a part.
Bali writes stories inspired by his working class Punjabi/Sikh background, but his aim was always that his writing should be enjoyed by readers everywhere, irrespective of class or culture. His has the ability to tackle the harsh realities of growing up in the UK and blend this with humour and often a overriding optimism. Bali visits schools and libraries in every major UK city, averaging 70 school and library events a year.
His first book, (un)arranged marriage, created a huge amount of interest and won many awards, including the Angus Book Award and the Leicester Book of the Year. It was also shortlisted for the prestigious Branford Boase first novel award. Rani and Sukh and The Whisper were both shortlisted for the Booktrust Teenage Prize.
All of Bali’s teen titles have been short-listed for awards across the UK, including twice making the Booktrust Teenage Prize shortlist. His third novel Rani and Sukh has represented the UK at the International IBBY awards and this title has its own Facebook tribute group set up by fans. Bali’s first three novels appear in The Ultimate Teenage Book Guide. Bali also writes shorter novels for Barrington Stoke, his first book, Dream On, was selected for the Booktrust’s inaugural Booked Up list. He also writes the hugely popular Soccer Squad series for younger readers.
Bali writes stories inspired by his working class Punjabi/Sikh background, but his aim was always that his writing should be enjoyed by readers everywhere, irrespective of class or culture. His has the ability to tackle the harsh realities of growing up in the UK and blend this with humour and often a overriding optimism. Bali visits schools and libraries in every major UK city, averaging 70 school and library events a year.
His first book, (un)arranged marriage, created a huge amount of interest and won many awards, including the Angus Book Award and the Leicester Book of the Year. It was also shortlisted for the prestigious Branford Boase first novel award. Rani and Sukh and The Whisper were both shortlisted for the Booktrust Teenage Prize.
All of Bali’s teen titles have been short-listed for awards across the UK, including twice making the Booktrust Teenage Prize shortlist. His third novel Rani and Sukh has represented the UK at the International IBBY awards and this title has its own Facebook tribute group set up by fans. Bali’s first three novels appear in The Ultimate Teenage Book Guide. Bali also writes shorter novels for Barrington Stoke, his first book, Dream On, was selected for the Booktrust’s inaugural Booked Up list. He also writes the hugely popular Soccer Squad series for younger readers.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
October 31, 2021
Much to my shame, I had no idea about Sophia Singh's role in the suffragette movement nor the awful mistreatment of her wealthy and culturally significant family under British Empirical rule in India. Fortunately, Rai has written an accessible story here that begins with Sophia's life in London to her return to her roots in India and then a return to London once more to fight the injustice against her people.
Although I enjoyed the book, it felt like we were only scratching the surface here as to Sophia's family life and the situation in England at dawn of the 20th century. There is certainly enough here to tantalise the younger reader into finding out more. As an older reader, a reference list at the back would have been nice. Needless to say, Rai has a lot to share here and, I suspect, had to work hard to reduce the narrative in as many pages as he did.
Although I enjoyed the book, it felt like we were only scratching the surface here as to Sophia's family life and the situation in England at dawn of the 20th century. There is certainly enough here to tantalise the younger reader into finding out more. As an older reader, a reference list at the back would have been nice. Needless to say, Rai has a lot to share here and, I suspect, had to work hard to reduce the narrative in as many pages as he did.
July 14, 2025
A captivating story of belonging, loss, grief, cultural heritage and the fight for women's rights. Princess Sophia Duleep Singh, despite her royal tile knew what it was like to be an outsider, to be caught in limbo, she also knew suffering and deep loss.Caught between British society and her cultural home of India, the daughter of the lsst Sikh ruler of the Punjab and the goddaughter of Queen Victoria felt she was destined for more. After seeing first hand the treatment of the Indian people under British rule, Princess Spohia is determined to help fight for Inda's independence, she starts out by helping some of India's forgotten people stranded in England.The Princess then joins Emmeline Parkhurst and her fellow suffregettes in the WSPU to fight for women's right to vote. An inspirational read of an important historical figure that is not often heard of or talked about.
February 18, 2022
Princess Sophia Duleep Singh is the daughter of the last Sikh ruler of the Punjab and the goddaughter of Queen Victoria, brought up in London as a refugee from India, but proud of the stories of her birth and of her royal status in India. However, as she grows older, tragedy hits the family and a journey to India leaves her feeling like she doesn’t fit in anywhere. That is until she meets the women of the WSPU and finds a cause she can fight for.
This story of the lesser known Princess Suffragette is a perfect introduction to the fight for female suffrage and the quest for Indian independence from British Imperialist rule. Focusing on the role of one of the less famous of the suffragettes, though no less significant, gives the subject matter renewed appeal for anyone who thinks they know about the Suffragette movement.
Bali Rai blends accessibility with detailed recounts and intelligent prose which will challenge the ideas and extend the vocabulary of any child who reads it. Despite its period setting, many of the issues are very relatable for a modern day audience. With my teacher head on, I would say it is suitable for an age range of around 7 - 12 years, but this will appeal to anyone who has an interest in the women’s movement of this period or who has an interest in discovering more about pioneering women.
This story of the lesser known Princess Suffragette is a perfect introduction to the fight for female suffrage and the quest for Indian independence from British Imperialist rule. Focusing on the role of one of the less famous of the suffragettes, though no less significant, gives the subject matter renewed appeal for anyone who thinks they know about the Suffragette movement.
Bali Rai blends accessibility with detailed recounts and intelligent prose which will challenge the ideas and extend the vocabulary of any child who reads it. Despite its period setting, many of the issues are very relatable for a modern day audience. With my teacher head on, I would say it is suitable for an age range of around 7 - 12 years, but this will appeal to anyone who has an interest in the women’s movement of this period or who has an interest in discovering more about pioneering women.
November 3, 2021
From beginning to end this book expertly captured the struggles and social injustice of the times surrounding the suffragette movement. The skilful way in which Rai has written this story is sensitive to the times as well as being completely honest and informative about life in Britain, and indeed India, at this time. Reading this book as an adult I would have loved for there to have been more given about the story of Sophia Singh, however for a younger reader I feel that it would be a great introduction to the suffragette movement, as well as the troubles between India and England. I feel it would get children asking plentiful questions and leave many wanting to research further into this topic.
I would love to have this book in my classroom not just because of the excellent way it focusses on this time in our history but also because it is written and laid out in a way to ensure it is a super-readable and accessible book for all children, including those with dyslexia or who struggle from visual stress. A truly excellent read!
I would love to have this book in my classroom not just because of the excellent way it focusses on this time in our history but also because it is written and laid out in a way to ensure it is a super-readable and accessible book for all children, including those with dyslexia or who struggle from visual stress. A truly excellent read!
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November 9, 2022Great introduction to an historical figure.
July 17, 2021
One of the things that I really love about the historical books that Barrington Stoke produce is that they often choose figures that people may only have a vague knowledge of, or even that you've never heard of. I love picking up their books knowing that I'm going to learn something new and interesting, that I'm going to come across a part of history that I've never leaned about before.
The Royal Rebel takes a look at Sophia Duleep Singh, the daughter of the last Sikh ruler of the Punjab. Raised in England in the Elveden country estate, Sophia was treated like a princess. Their home was filled with expensive artworks and luxuries, and the grounds played host to animals from across the world. She grew up with everything she could have wanted; but one day that began to change.
Over the course of her childhood we see her family getting into further and further financial difficulties, and we see how this strained the family. Eventually her father abandoned his wife and children, living out the remainder of his days away from his responsibilities. It's here that we see the seeds of discontent begin to take root in Sophia, as she realises her life isn't perfect; and that the people in charge of the country she was raised in are a large reason for this.
During a trip to India Sophia realises that despite being a princess the British people don't actually care about her, and that they will quickly wash their hands of her and leave her alone to fend for herself. It's only through the kindness of the Punjabi people that she and her sisters are even able to get by in their ancestral home. Soon she and her sisters have given up all love for England, and have decided that Indian independence should be their goal. Whilst her sisters stay in India Sophia returns to England, hoping to use her position there to help the cause.
Over the years Sophia does a lot of charity work and fundraising for the lascar's who were left to live in squalor in England. Eventually, Sophia learnt about another fight for freedom; the fight for women's right to vote. After attending a Suffrage meeting Sophia joined up with the cause, and over the next few decades campaigned tirelessly to help women to gain the right to vote.
The life of Sophia Duleep Singh is a pretty amazing story, and it couldn't have been easy for Bali Rai to condense it down into a book that was easy for kids to read that also contained all of the important parts of her life. However, he manages to do so, and despite the relatively short length of the book readers get given plenty of detail about the main parts of her family life, her childhood, and her various endeavours across her life.
Rai covers all of the major events in Sophia's life, but doesn't just treat the book as a list of accomplishments, and makes sure that the readers get the chance to get to know the princess a little. We spend some time in her head, see what her thoughts are, and get to understand her motivations.
Before reading this book I'd honestly never heard of Princess Sophia Duleep Singh, but now that I know about her I can see myself going out and learning more about her. I'm definitely interested in learning about her life and her achievements in greater detail. Like past Barrington Stoke historical books, The Rebel Royal is a perfect gateway into further reading and learning, a first step to discovering about an amazing figure from history.
The Royal Rebel takes a look at Sophia Duleep Singh, the daughter of the last Sikh ruler of the Punjab. Raised in England in the Elveden country estate, Sophia was treated like a princess. Their home was filled with expensive artworks and luxuries, and the grounds played host to animals from across the world. She grew up with everything she could have wanted; but one day that began to change.
Over the course of her childhood we see her family getting into further and further financial difficulties, and we see how this strained the family. Eventually her father abandoned his wife and children, living out the remainder of his days away from his responsibilities. It's here that we see the seeds of discontent begin to take root in Sophia, as she realises her life isn't perfect; and that the people in charge of the country she was raised in are a large reason for this.
During a trip to India Sophia realises that despite being a princess the British people don't actually care about her, and that they will quickly wash their hands of her and leave her alone to fend for herself. It's only through the kindness of the Punjabi people that she and her sisters are even able to get by in their ancestral home. Soon she and her sisters have given up all love for England, and have decided that Indian independence should be their goal. Whilst her sisters stay in India Sophia returns to England, hoping to use her position there to help the cause.
Over the years Sophia does a lot of charity work and fundraising for the lascar's who were left to live in squalor in England. Eventually, Sophia learnt about another fight for freedom; the fight for women's right to vote. After attending a Suffrage meeting Sophia joined up with the cause, and over the next few decades campaigned tirelessly to help women to gain the right to vote.
The life of Sophia Duleep Singh is a pretty amazing story, and it couldn't have been easy for Bali Rai to condense it down into a book that was easy for kids to read that also contained all of the important parts of her life. However, he manages to do so, and despite the relatively short length of the book readers get given plenty of detail about the main parts of her family life, her childhood, and her various endeavours across her life.
Rai covers all of the major events in Sophia's life, but doesn't just treat the book as a list of accomplishments, and makes sure that the readers get the chance to get to know the princess a little. We spend some time in her head, see what her thoughts are, and get to understand her motivations.
Before reading this book I'd honestly never heard of Princess Sophia Duleep Singh, but now that I know about her I can see myself going out and learning more about her. I'm definitely interested in learning about her life and her achievements in greater detail. Like past Barrington Stoke historical books, The Rebel Royal is a perfect gateway into further reading and learning, a first step to discovering about an amazing figure from history.
July 20, 2022
This is a perfect middle grade, accessible read and is a real treat for all ages. Reading about Sophia Duleep Singh felt like discovering along lost treasure, I loved learning about her family's dynasty, the unfairness of colonialism in India and of her involvement in the Suffragette movement. A truly inspiring woman who through this well-written book can inspire young minds in our modern age.
February 10, 2023
A nice little book for young people that gives an overview of the life of Princess Sophia Duleep Singh, granddaughter of the great Maharajah Ranjit Singh, daughter of Maharajah Duleep Singh (known as the one who had the Koh-I-Noor - and his Pepe’s/status and Punjab - taken from him as a child king).
I think this does a good job of giving the basics to a young audience in a straightforward way. It’s not too heavy (until later when she becomes a suffragette, but even then the content is fairly tame), but it also doesn’t go in depth and moves (sometimes too) quickly. For example - one moment her mother is too depressed to see her, the next she’s very doting and then within the same page… she suddenly dies.
It picked up once she went to India and then came back to England and starts focusing on the suffrage movement.
The last page of the book says their books are tested and I am always curious to know what the young audiences these are made for think of these books. I can see it being a good spark and starting point for a preteen. I am sure I would’ve enjoyed it back then!
3.5/5
I think this does a good job of giving the basics to a young audience in a straightforward way. It’s not too heavy (until later when she becomes a suffragette, but even then the content is fairly tame), but it also doesn’t go in depth and moves (sometimes too) quickly. For example - one moment her mother is too depressed to see her, the next she’s very doting and then within the same page… she suddenly dies.
It picked up once she went to India and then came back to England and starts focusing on the suffrage movement.
The last page of the book says their books are tested and I am always curious to know what the young audiences these are made for think of these books. I can see it being a good spark and starting point for a preteen. I am sure I would’ve enjoyed it back then!
3.5/5
December 9, 2024
I had been intrigued to learn more about the life of Princess Sophia Duleep Singh since coming across a reference to her in another book I was reading about the women’s suffrage movement. I wondered how a person who was a descendent of the ruler of the last great Sikh kingdom and a god daughter of King Victoria found herself campaigning in London for women’s right to vote.
I opted for a middle grade book to give me that to the point narrative without excessive historical analysis (which I do love but just didn't fancy here). However, and this is on my lack of careful research before purchasing, this book was more children’s than middle grade and so of course for an adult reader it was very simple. But it did provide a very clear overview of Sophia’s history and brought her to life for the reader.
I opted for a middle grade book to give me that to the point narrative without excessive historical analysis (which I do love but just didn't fancy here). However, and this is on my lack of careful research before purchasing, this book was more children’s than middle grade and so of course for an adult reader it was very simple. But it did provide a very clear overview of Sophia’s history and brought her to life for the reader.
January 11, 2022
I was not aware of this story and I enjoyed this version of it. I certainly would like to find out more. Bali Rai never disappoints and this is another successful, as well as accessible, read from the Barrington Stoke range. One for my classroom.
January 20, 2026
Great accessible read for younger children or those with dyslexia. Intentional single language. suitable for all ages. Tells the story of Princess Sophia Duleep Singh, great for celebrating political heroes who were not white.
February 3, 2022
It's such a great quick read love Sophia
February 10, 2022
Great children's story about the suffragette movement
May 4, 2023
An interesting true story. I did not know about the princess suffragette
3.5*
3.5*
May 6, 2023
Loved this.
Her life story was amazing and I'm so happy I read this so at least one more person knows her story.
Her life story was amazing and I'm so happy I read this so at least one more person knows her story.
July 19, 2024
3.5 stars
October 28, 2021
Such an intriguing read focused on such an interesting character from history
September 27, 2025
I am not sure how to feel about this book but as there is so little written about Sophia Duleep Singh that the book needs to read regardless.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews