Dickens & Rumi

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The Paper Bag Princess

Robert N. Munsch · 1980

Explore the age guidance, content cautions, positive qualities, and supporting notes for The Paper Bag Princess by Robert N. Munsch. This book is recommended for ages 4+; content notes include Frightening scenes, Romance, Violence; positive qualities include Courage & resilience, Creativity & curiosity.

Ages 4+Source checked

Why this age? Suitable for preschool and early elementary readers; dragon danger, destruction, and mild insults may need brief reassurance, while the story's emotional ideas are accessible to young children. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age4+

Strongest cautions

  • Frightening scenes2/5
  • Romance2/5
  • Violence2/5

Strongest positives

  • Courage & resilience5/5
  • Creativity & curiosity4/5
  • Good role models4/5

What’s in it?

Romance2/5
Why this rating?

The book begins with an engagement, but ends with the Princess rejecting the Prince, subverting traditional romance tropes.

Frightening scenes2/5
Why this rating?

A dragon appears, but it is depicted as more blustery than terrifying.

Violence2/5
Why this rating?

The dragon burns the castle and clothes, but it is presented in a cartoonish, non-threatening manner.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience5/5
Why this rating?

Elizabeth shows immense bravery in facing the dragon alone to save the Prince.

Creativity & curiosity4/5
Why this rating?

The story encourages creative thinking and challenging societal norms.

Diverse representation1/5
Why this rating?

The protagonist defies traditional gender expectations.

Educational value1/5
Why this rating?

It is an engaging story for early readers that helps spark critical thinking about gender roles.

Kindness & empathy2/5
Why this rating?

Elizabeth is kind and determined in her rescue, though she rightfully chooses her own happiness over the prince's vanity.

Positive messages4/5
Why this rating?

Strong positive messages about self-worth, rejecting vanity, and not needing a prince to be capable.

Good role models4/5
Why this rating?

Elizabeth is an excellent, proactive, and resilient role model for children.

Family discussion

Talk about it

Conversation starters based on this title’s published content notes.

  1. What did courage look like in this story? Was being brave always the same as being fearless?
  2. Which moment felt most tense or frightening? What helped the characters handle fear?
  3. Which choice in The Paper Bag Princess would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in The Paper Bag Princess, and what caused that change?
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These content notes are a starting point, not a guarantee. Review the evidence and use your own judgment before choosing a title.

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