Princess Princess Ever After

Sadie doesn’t enjoy being locked in a tower, but she’s also tired of princes coming (and failing) to rescue her. When brave Amira successfully saves her, Sadie’s world is transformed. The two travel through the kingdom, finding new friends and facing new foes. When a jealous and cruel sorceress tries to hurt Sadie, the two young women must use their own strengths to handle their biggest challenge yet together.

PRINCESS PRINCESS EVER AFTER by Katie O’Neill is one of the most adorable, touching graphic novels I’ve ever read. Though this story isn’t long, it is brimming with touching moments, powerful character arcs, and gorgeous illustrations. Amira and Sadie don’t focus on a binary of feminine and masculine traits; rather, they both explore the range of strengths they have and celebrate them together. Most notably, Sadie has strong emotions and reactions. She feels deeply, and that shows quickly and fully. While such emotion is often seen as a weakness or somehow silly, Sadie comes to recognize it as one of her best strengths, a message that any reader can enjoy. Amira and Sadie not only accept each other as they are, but encourage each other to be the best versions of themselves.

From queer POC characters to a fat princess, PRINCESS PRINCESS EVER AFTER visually reflects the real world well in a fantastical setting. Both Amira and Sadie are confronted with people who don’t understand some part of their appearance or personality, often revealing why certain stereotypes or judgments are harmful for everyone. O’Neill even manages to tackle toxic masculinity in a small side arc of a minor male character.

I highly encourage readers looking for something short, powerful, and fun to read PRINCESS PRINCESS EVER AFTER. Amira and Sadie’s story will have you crying over the intense cuteness and ready to go on an adventure (preferably with a dragon).