Step into the enchanting world of the Wide-Awake Princess series, where fairy tales get a delightfully witty twist! Written by E.D. Baker, this middle-grade fantasy saga follows Princess Annie, the magic-immune younger sister of Sleeping Beauty, as she embarks on adventures filled with humor, heart, and unexpected heroism. Unlike traditional princesses draped in magical beauty, Annie’s strength lies in her resourcefulness and courage, making her a refreshing role model for young readers.
With a knack for flipping fairy tale tropes, Baker crafts a world where intelligence trumps enchantment, and ordinary girls can be extraordinary heroes. Whether you’re a fan of fractured fairy tales or just love a good adventure, the Wide-Awake Princess series invites you to explore a magical kingdom where wit and kindness reign supreme.
How Wide-Awake Princess Began
E.D. Baker, renowned for her Tales of the Frog Princess series, which inspired Disney’s The Princess and the Frog, launched the Wide-Awake Princess series in 2010. Inspired by her love for reimagining classic tales, Baker created Princess Annie as a counterpoint to the typical fairy tale heroine. Annie’s magic immunity, a gift from a fairy at her christening, sets her apart in a world obsessed with magical beauty, sparking Baker’s vision for a series that celebrates inner strength over outward perfection. The result is a charming blend of humor and adventure that captivates young readers and fairy tale enthusiasts alike.
The Heart of Wide-Awake Princess
The series kicks off with The Wide-Awake Princess (2010), where Annie, unaffected by a sleeping curse that dooms her sister Gwendolyn (Sleeping Beauty), ventures out to find a prince to break the spell. Accompanied by Liam, a loyal guard, Annie encounters familiar fairy tale characters like Hansel and Gretel, each with a quirky twist. In Unlocking the Spell (2012), Annie helps Gwendolyn’s prince, Beldegard, who’s trapped in a bear’s body, unraveling another magical mystery. The Bravest Princess (2014) sees Annie aiding her friend Snow White, while Princess Before Dawn (2018), the series’ finale, wraps up her epic quests with high-seas adventures.
Baker’s stories weave themes of self-acceptance, autonomy, and the power of authenticity. Set in the vibrant kingdom of Treecrest and beyond, the series blends whimsical settings with clever nods to classic tales. Annie’s lack of magical allure makes her relatable, while her problem-solving skills and compassion elevate her as a hero. The lighthearted tone, sprinkled with romance and humor, keeps readers hooked, offering a fresh take on fairy tales that challenges beauty-centric narratives.
Why Wide-Awake Princess Resonates
The Wide-Awake Princess series has carved a niche in middle-grade fantasy by empowering young readers, especially girls, to embrace their unique qualities. Annie’s journey as an ‘ordinary’ princess who outsmarts magical challenges resonates with fans seeking alternatives to stereotypical princess stories. Reviews praise Baker’s humor and inventive storytelling, with readers on Goodreads calling the series ‘clever’ and ‘adorable’ for its playful fairy tale crossovers. Its lasting appeal lies in its message: heroism isn’t about magic or beauty but about courage and kindness.
By blending adventure with meaningful themes, the series continues to inspire readers to rewrite their own stories, proving that everyone can be the hero of their tale. Its influence extends to fans of authors like Patricia C. Wrede, who also craft witty fairy tale retellings.
- First Published: 2010
- Total Books: 7
- Target Age: 8–12
- Author: E.D. Baker
Grab The Wide-Awake Princess and dive into a fairy tale world where wit, heart, and a touch of magic create unforgettable adventures!