Oh man I remember taking a children's literature class a few years ago. Our professor read it aloud to the class and I enjoyed this book even as an adult. I thought that the characters were well thought out and the illustrations were beautiful. The concept of a king having to marry someone he saw as his equal to gain any real power was very unique in my opinion.

This was my favorite book as a kid. I still have my copy I got in 1st grade and sometimes go back and flip through it.

They made the arrogant king take care of goats! Hooray!

Read for my son's 3rd-grade homeschool curriculum.

I read this one out loud to two of my children over three short sessions. They really enjoyed it and never wanted to stop reading. It's fairy tale/morality tale with Russian overtones - a greedy prince, a beautiful goat-herding peasant woman and a friendly wolf. The prince can only marry a woman who is his "equal" in every way, but it takes the prince learning a few lessons from the "poor" commoner before HE is worthy of his bride.

I think older children might find it a bit dull and predictable, but my 8 and 5 year old really loved it. As an adult, I felt it was a bit predictable for my taste, but really, it IS a fairy tale, so what can I expect? :)

This is a short, sweet chapter book. It is a fairy tale in its purest form, with good triumphing over evil and fantasy elements. Itis contrived in some places, but I didn't mind it and I don't think my girls will either. A very sweet, pure book, appropriate for any child that can read it.

Fairy tale emphasizing kindness and industriousness over selfishness and arrogance. Illustrations based on French King Louis XIV's (Sun King) court.

I didn't like "Bridge to Terabithia", but I did like this little chapter book. A newer fairy tale, that's definitely for children but teaches some valuable lessons on humility and kindness. Good for beginner readers.

One cause for concern when I let my children read this would be when the Wolf (traditionally bad) told the princess to keep their friendship a secret. I anticipate having to explain that when a "friend" tells you to keep them secret, you should say no and tell your parents about your new friend. (for reasons I think everyone here gets.)

I get that it's important for the book, but I don't want some clever children applying the wrong lessons to their life.

I first read this book as a child, but this time I found the book and decided to refresh my memory. It’s a beautiful story about a vain and selfish prince who has to learn how to be humble while caring for creatures other than himself.