Books help our children visualize important messages that they may not always receive in their communities. There are more and more empowering books redefining princesses, but most of them are written for an older age range, and the main characters are often light skinned. We believe representation is important and wanted to create something that would resonate with children of all ages and skin color.
“Princesses Wear Dresses speaks to kids’ developmental need to express themselves and be validated for who they are. More than ever before, kids are craving examples of how our basic human need for love and belonging can connect us, rather than create barriers. This book provides a simple, accessible groundwork for developing key social and emotional values that will bring kindness and compassion into today’s world.”
Dr. Jennifer Freedman
(mother of 2)
“A refreshing tale about acceptance and diversity. Whimsical, humorous, and witty with amazing illustrations. Both my children love reading it with a meaningful lesson at the end!”
Lauren Anvari
(mother of 3)
“The book illustrations are not only beautiful but also inclusive. It's clear that a lot of thought was put into this book to ensure that little children everywhere would feel represented in its pages. The best part is that the ultimate message is about empowerment—while the world may tell you that a princess's value is only skin deep, it's actually the choices we make and how we treat people that matter most.”
Kristina Weber
(mother of 2)
“Princesses Wear Dresses is a sweet and relatable book with a great message. It emphasizes what is truly important about princesses, and is a great book for early readers!”
Ramona Ferrell
(mother of 2)
“Princesses Wear Dresses is such a delightful book for my two daughters. Simple sentences that my older one could read along and plenty of pages to be substantial. My girls wanted to stay on some pages and talk about the pictures and act out some pages. I was drawn to the message that princesses don't only wear fancy dresses and tiaras but can be a princess in character and personality.”
Princesses Wear Dresses is the first collaboration between sisters Dana Kvalheim and Lauren Kvalheim, with additional watercolors from their friend Keeley Nolan. Dana has a background in early childhood education and studio art which she applies to developing material and activities for children's learning. Lauren comes from a professional background in the film and game industries, producing illustrations and animations in both digital and traditional media. Both Dana and Lauren share a love of creating for their communities and would like to dedicate this book to all the princesses in their lives, but especially their children!
