The Princess in Black
The secret identity joins princess play and superhero action in one capable protagonist.
The Princess in Black by Shannon Hale and Dean Hale is estimated to take about 20 minutes to read aloud (2,079 words, 2 sentences a spread). Best for ages 5-8.
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- Estimated read-aloud time
- about 20 minutesEstimated read-aloud time
- Words
- 2,079Word count
- Sentences per spread
- 2Text density
- Re-read tolerance
- 5/5strong repeat appeal
- Vocabulary level
- 3/5a few new words
- Best for
- Ages 5-8Age range
Our review
Princess Magnolia responds to a blue monster by leaving behind her elaborate princess clothes and becoming the Princess in Black. The transformation places two familiar roles—formal princess and active superhero—inside one character rather than asking the reader to choose between them.
That double identity gives the story a clear source of momentum and makes it a useful early adventure for children drawn to both fairy-tale settings and monster action. Magnolia’s competence, rather than rescue by another hero, drives the premise. The Perfect Princess Party tests secrecy under repeated interruptions; the first book is the cleaner introduction to Magnolia’s double identity.
Before you buy it
Monster conflict is central, even though the source description presents it in a playful heroic register.
Themes
- princesses
- superheroes
- monsters
- secret identity
- goats
Books like The Princess in Black
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Lists The Princess in Black is on
14 booksFirst Chapter Books for Shared ReadingA first longer book should suit the way you plan to read it: a complete short story, an illustrated chapter narrative continued over several sessions or a text the child can increasingly share.- 10 booksBooks Like Magic Tree HouseMagic Tree House combines recurring companions, a continuing series and an adventure in a changing place.
- 19 booksBooks for 6 Year OldsChoose the next book by the reading task: practicing newly learned patterns, reading a short episode with less help, or listening to a longer story.