Ugly Princess and the Wise Fool, The

Reach for this book when your child starts comparing their appearance to others or feels the heavy weight of social expectations. It is a perfect choice for middle-grade readers who feel like they do not fit the conventional mold of beauty or popularity. The story follows Princess Rose, who considers herself plain, and a wise fool named Jasper as they navigate a kingdom governed by a bureaucratic Godmother Board of Trustees. Through their journey, the book explores the difference between external perfection and internal wisdom. It is a satirical yet heart-centered fairy tale that helps children dismantle the idea that their worth is tied to their looks. By highlighting Rose's agency and Jasper's intelligence, it provides a roadmap for finding self-confidence through action and original thinking rather than magic spells.