About This Book
Reach for this book when your child feels stifled by expectations or struggles to balance their private interests with their public responsibilities. It is a perfect choice for the young reader who prefers muddy boots and animal companionship over the traditional, polished image of a 'princess.' Princess Ellie's Secret follows a relatable protagonist who must navigate the pressure of royal duties while hiding a stray pony she has rescued. As a psychologist, I recommend this for children age 7 to 9 who are developing their sense of autonomy. The story highlights the tension between following rules and following one's heart, specifically focusing on the importance of integrity and the courage to ask for help when things get out of control. It is a gentle, realistic contemporary fiction that validates a child's need for a private world while modeling how to eventually integrate that world with their family life.
