Ask My Shelf
Log in Register
Ask My Shelf

Share your thoughts in a quick Shelf Talk!

The Princess in Black by Shannon Hale and Dean Hale

By day she’s a prim princess; by secret, a monster-busting hero in a twirl of capes and courage. Fast, funny, and fearless, The Princess in Black is a delightful first adventure for young readers who love their heroes with a wink.

Have you read this book? Share what you liked (or didn’t), and we’ll use your answers to recommend your next favorite read!

Love The Princess in Black but not sure what to read next?

These picks are popular with readers who enjoyed this book. Complete a quick Shelf Talk to get recommendations made just for you! Warning: possible spoilers for The Princess in Black below.

In The Princess in Black, did you enjoy ...

... laugh-out-loud, rule-bending heroine comedy with short, punchy chapters?

Dory Fantasmagory by Abby Hanlon

If the way Princess Magnolia slips from tea party to monster takedown made you giggle, you’ll love the chaos Dory creates. In Dory Fantasmagory, Dory battles the dreadful Mrs. Gobble Gracker, stages daring rescues for her stuffed friend, and turns everyday moments into heroic escapades—much like Magnolia juggling duchess visits with secret missions. It’s fast, funny, and full of imaginative antics that feel like the Princess in Black’s monster-fighting silliness turned up to eleven.

... a brave girl balancing two identities with sparkle and heart?

Isadora Moon by Harriet Muncaster

You enjoyed how Princess Magnolia hides a sparkly secret identity to save the day—Isadora does her own version of that. In Isadora Moon, a half-fairy, half-vampire girl figures out where she fits, choosing between fairy school and vampire traditions while staying true to herself. Like Magnolia switching from pink ruffles to her black cape, Isadora leans into both sides of who she is—whether it’s a ballet recital with a hint of bat wings or a sleepover with a sprinkle of fairy magic.

... whimsical creatures, gentle peril, and magic that stays cozy and kind?

Willa the Wisp by Jonathan Auxier

If the Princess in Black’s tangle with the hungry blue monster felt just-right fun—not too scary, but exciting—Willa the Wisp hits the same sweet spot. Auggie, keeper of the Fabled Stables, tracks down a shimmering wisp that needs rescuing, meeting quirky beasts and solving problems with kindness and courage. It’s the same warm, mischievous magic as when Magnolia and Blacky charge out to save the day, only with a menagerie of lovable creatures.

... quick, action-forward chapters where a kid hero races from problem to solution?

Rise of the Earth Dragon by Tracey West

If you tore through Magnolia’s rapid costume changes, goat boy alerts, and monster showdowns, you’ll fly through Rise of the Earth Dragon. Drake is whisked to a castle, chosen to bond with a dragon, and must act fast when danger hits—much like Princess Magnolia springing into action the moment Duff spots trouble. Short chapters, big cliffhangers, and clear missions make every page turn feel like a monster alarm ringing.

... a plucky royal teaming up with an unforgettable animal sidekick to shake up castle life?

Princess Cora and the Crocodile by Laura Amy Schlitz

If you loved Magnolia and her trusty steed Blacky dashing out to save the kingdom, Princess Cora and the Crocodile gives you another spirited royal–animal duo. Cora wants a break from perfect princess lessons, so a rambunctious crocodile steps in—causing delightful mayhem in the castle while Cora finds her courage. It’s that same mix of royal expectations, secret mischief, and a bold plan that would make the Princess in Black proud.

Unlock your personalized book recommendations! Just take a quick Shelf Talk for The Princess in Black by Shannon Hale and Dean Hale. It’s only a few questions and takes less than a minute.