How 'The Paper Bag Princess' Made Me Who I Am Today

In the first grade, my teacher read us "The Paper Bag Princess" by Robert Munsch. For those who haven't read it, GO READ IT. This book is adorable and teaches a great lesson. Anyways, we read this book in one of my literature classes the other day and I started to think.

When reading this book in first grade, I didn't think much of it. I thought the story was funny and was different from other fairytale books, but didn't realize the meaning behind it. As the years went on, I found myself thinking about "The Paper Bag Princess." She was independent and used her brains to outsmart the dragon. I wanted to be more like her, so I focused on my studies. I knew that I could do things for myself and didn't need a "prince" to save me.

Looking back at my middle school and high school years, I implemented this idea of being the "Paper Bag Princess" in my life. I was very independent and confident in myself. I didn't seek approval from boys like I saw other girls do. I tried to do my best and learn as much as I could.

I think reading "The Paper Bag Princess" as a child taught me that it is okay to be a strong girl. I don't need to be saved and can do things by myself. I could still be a princess, but also be strong. It's important to remember that strong doesn't mean masculine. It means you can do hard things.

So, go read "The Paper Bag Princess" if you haven't already. Read it to your kids, read it to your friends. I think this book is absolutely incredible and teaches girls that they can be their own hero.