[BOOK REVIEW] Princess Smartypants by Babette Cole

Title:  Princess Smartypants

Author:  Babette Cole

Genre:  Royalty / Feminism / Fantasy / Comedy

Year Published: 1986

Year Read:  2008

Publisher: G.P. Putnam's Sons

Source:  Library

Content Rating:  Ages 5+ (Some Rebellious Behavior)

Buy on:  Amazon  //  Book Depository

Babette Cole has written many children’s books that seem to feature rebellious children. “Princess Smartypants” is certainly no exception. Babette Cole’s princess story has everything that both an adult and child would gladly appreciate: great sense of humor and a beautiful message about being yourself and standing up for what you believe is right. 

Babette Cole did a marvelous job on both the story and the illustrations. The illustrations are as hilarious as they are exuberant. Babette Cole produces a more humorous touch on Princess Smartypants’ vicious pets as one image shows the two green dragons laughing at Prince Vertigo’s feeble attempt to climb Princess Smartypants’ glass tower. Also, the overall message of independence and confidence shines brightly in this story. Princess Smartypants enjoys doing activities that a civilized lady would not do such as, riding her motorbike over a pit of snakes and taking care of wild beasts and does not let anyone’s opinion about her doing these crazy stunts affect her. Then, when Prince Swashbuckle came and passed all of her impossible tasks, Princess Smartypants felt like her independence was being jeopardized as she would have to obey Prince Swashbuckle’s bidding if she marries him. Even though, most parents would think that her actions are somewhat vulgar to an extent, Princess Smartypants was only doing activities that satisfied her and that she was only trying to protect her state of being independent when Prince Swashbuckle passed all her tests. 

“Princess Smartypants” is probably one of Babette Cole’s greatest books ever created. This book is a creative story about a princess who just wanted to do the activities that she enjoys doing despite what her parents say. Also, Princess Smartypants is one of the few heroines who have lots of spunk and independence deep within themselves. “Princess Smartypants” is a perfect book for both kids and adults who enjoy messages about independence and confidence.