Maiden & Princess Children's Book

In this modern fairy tale, a strong, brave maiden is invited to attend the prince’s royal ball, but at the dance, she ends up finding true love in a most surprising place.

By Daniel Haack & Isabel Galupo. Art by Becca Human

Once in a faraway kingdom, a strong, brave maiden is invited to attend the prince's royal ball, but she's not as excited to go as everyone else. After her mother convinces her to make an appearance, she makes a huge impression on everyone present, from the villagers to the king and queen, but she ends up finding true love in a most surprising place.

A multiracial cast stars in this tale of a kingdom in search of a princess for its prince. A warrior maiden who fights alongside and is friends with the prince reluctantly attends the matchmaker ball with encouragement from her mother that she may find her perfect match, "the one," among the guests. She does indeed find the love of her life, not in the prince but in his sister, the princess.

The vibrant, colorful costumes, makeup, and hairstyles of the characters as well as the opulent castle ballrooms effectively set a royal stage for the love story. The maiden's omnipresent ruby-red pet dragon adds a bit of fantastical whimsy to the otherwise earnest love story.

This story is co-created by a Lambda Literary Writers Retreat for Emerging LGBTQ Voices participant and a London based artist/filmmaker. The book is a partnership between the publisher and GLAAD, and proceeds from its sales will be used to "accelerate LGBTQ acceptance.

"A positive and affirming picture book, featuring characters of color, a fledgling romance between two girls, and brilliant artwork." - Elaine Fultz, Madison Jr. Sr. High School, Middletown, OH

"The prince is smart and strong,"
she confided in her mother.
"But if I'm being honest,
I see him as a brother."
Her mother said, "Just go!
And have a bit of fun.
The prince might not be right,
but you could meet the one."