The Wide-Awake Princess

Reach for this book when your child feels overshadowed by a sibling or peer who seems to have all the natural talent, beauty, or luck. While the world fusses over her sister, the legendary Sleeping Beauty, Princess Annie is born with the unique curse of being magic-proof. When a sleeping spell freezes the kingdom, Annie's supposed flaw becomes her greatest strength as the only person capable of navigating a magical world to save her family. It is a refreshing take on individuality that validates the child who feels plain or overlooked. The story is a lighthearted middle grade fantasy that balances classic tropes with modern agency. It is perfect for ages 8 to 12, offering a gentle yet firm message that being different is not a deficit, but a superpower waiting for the right moment to shine. Parents will appreciate how it reframes traditional fairy tale dynamics into a journey of self-reliance and resilience.