To Be a Princess: The Fascinating Lives of Real Princesses

Elisabeth Anne MacDonald-Murray is an assistant professor of English at
the University of Western Ontario.

Almost every child at some point in his or her life dreams about being a
prince or princess. But is royal life really all that it is cracked up
to be? These two books recount the stories of real royal children, past
and present, setting the record straight with honest, forthright
portrayals of life in a royal family.

Growing Up Royal examines the lives and experiences of contemporary
royals, looking beyond the tabloid headlines to reveal how royal
children play an important role in the family business from a very early
age. Focusing primarily on the members of the British royal family,
Billinghurst gives an indepth analysis of what it means to be royal.
Everything from protocol and etiquette to security and publicity is
discussed showing both the advantages and disadvantages of the royal
life. Her text is humorous and lively and full of anecdotes about
members of the royal family.

To Be a Princess profiles 12 historical princesses from around the
world, five of whom later became queens. Their histories, often tragic
and full of danger and intrigue, dispel the myth of the fairy-tale
princess who waits for her prince to come; these are young women whose
lives were inextricably connected to, and often determined by, the
history and politics of their countries. The text, which is illustrated
by historical photographs and drawings as well as Laurie McGaw’s
evocative portraits, presents a sympathetic glimpse into lives that were
defined by both great privilege and responsibility.

Both books are enjoyable to read and highly recommended.