Step into the enchanting world of the Tales of the Frog Princess, where a clumsy princess, a sassy frog prince, and a dash of magic create a fairy-tale adventure like no other! Written by E.D. Baker, this beloved fantasy series follows Princess Emeralda, or Emma, a fledgling witch in the kingdom of Greater Greensward. With its quirky humor, heartfelt coming-of-age themes, and a whimsical twist on the classic 'Frog Prince' tale, the series has charmed readers and even inspired Disney’s hit movie The Princess and the Frog.
Unlike traditional princesses with perfect poise, Emma trips over her own feet, laughs like a donkey, and struggles with her magical powers. Yet, her imperfections make her relatable and her journey unforgettable. Perfect for young readers and fairy-tale fans, this series blends romance, adventure, and laugh-out-loud moments in a magical medieval world.
How Tales of the Frog Princess Began
E.D. Baker launched the series in 2002 with The Frog Princess, drawing inspiration from the German fairy tale 'The Frog Prince.' Baker, a Maryland-based author, wanted to reimagine the story with a humorous, modern twist, giving the princess agency and a magical edge. Her background in writing for children shone through, creating a world that feels both timeless and fresh. The book’s success sparked a series that grew to nine novels, fueled by Baker’s knack for blending Shakespearean comedy with fantastical elements.
Baker’s love for fairy tales and her desire to craft strong, relatable heroines shaped Emma’s character. The series’ connection to Disney’s 2009 film The Princess and the Frog brought it wider recognition, though the books stand out for their unique voice and focus on Emma’s magical growth.
The Heart of Tales of the Frog Princess
The series kicks off with The Frog Princess, where Emma, desperate to avoid an arranged marriage to the pompous Prince Jorge, kisses a talking frog named Eadric, hoping to break his curse. Instead, she turns into a frog herself! Their quest to become human again is filled with quirky allies like a loyal snake and a chatty bat. Dragon’s Breath follows, as Emma and Eadric tackle a dragon-related curse, diving deeper into her magical heritage. In Once Upon a Curse, Emma travels back in time to undo a family curse, blending time-travel with fairy-tale flair. No Place for Magic sees the couple facing prejudice against magic as they rescue Eadric’s kidnapped brother.
The series shines through its themes of self-acceptance, courage, and girl power. Emma’s journey from an insecure princess to a confident Green Witch resonates with readers, especially young girls. The medieval setting, with its castles, swamps, and enchanted forests, feels alive with magical creatures and witty dialogue. Baker’s light, comedic style—think Shrek meets classic fairy tales—keeps the stories accessible yet layered with emotional depth.
Each book introduces fresh challenges, from battling sea monsters to outsmarting wicked witches, while exploring Emma’s evolving relationship with Eadric. The animal characters, like L’il the bat, add humor and heart, making the series a delightful mix of adventure and friendship.
Why Tales of the Frog Princess Resonates
The Tales of the Frog Princess has left a lasting mark on children’s fantasy, offering a fresh take on fairy tales that prioritizes strong, flawed heroines. Its commercial success, with over 80,000 Goodreads ratings and a Disney adaptation, speaks to its broad appeal. Fans praise its humor and Emma’s relatability, with many calling it a nostalgic comfort read. The series’ focus on empowerment and breaking stereotypes continues to inspire young readers to embrace their unique strengths.
Baker’s ability to craft a magical world that’s both whimsical and grounded ensures the series remains a favorite for families and fairy-tale enthusiasts. Its blend of romance, magic, and comedy makes it a timeless addition to the genre.
- First Published: 2002
- Number of Books: 9
- Notable Inspiration: Disney’s The Princess and the Frog (2009)
- Target Audience: Ages 8–14
Grab The Frog Princess and dive into E.D. Baker’s spellbinding world of magic, laughter, and adventure!