Review
"A charming, coming of age fairytale. Follow a young girl as she searches for her purpose in life and what special virtue she possess. A well-written spiritual journey for all ages. " - C.T. Horvath, author of Chloe and the Lighthouse
"A sweet story about a curious princess who is trying to discover her place amongst her virtuous family. Boys and girls alike will enjoy following her journey and discovering the many traits they too may possess that will make them worthy of their own jeweled crowns." -Val Darting (a mom and elementary school teacher)
The fairytales I grew up reading, and watching on The Wonderful World of Disney, typically involve dark themes and/or magic. This stuff of which both dreams and nightmares are made, simultaneously fascinates and frightens. Princess Tiara and The Crown of Virtues, has a nicely allegorical feel about it, is reminiscent of Encanto in that the youngest sibling in its featured royal family is the only one who has not yet discovered her special gift. She spends the majority of her time wondering if she even has a gift, simultaneously yearning for and dreading its discovery and the responsibilities incumbent upon it. The book contains a teachers' guide for facilitating reading and writing skills, Classroom value aside, it is the storyline, which is what makes this brilliant concept book an irresistible must-read for today's 'princesses-in-waiting': -- Stacey Stevens, writer, mother, contributor to Belonging House Fellowship
From the Author
I've thoroughly enjoyed writing this fairy tale adventure because it celebrates my real nieces and nephews. Tiara, the main character, is my youngest niece. All of her siblings in the story are also my nieces and nephews. For each one, I chose to highlight their strength of character as well as their personalities. The physical descriptions of the princes and princesses generally describe my nieces and nephews. Each one demonstrates virtue in real life and I adore them all. It was delightful crafting a story that honored them.
A funny anecdote is that I had to add in the character, Kegan the stableman, when my niece Brittani got married recently.
On a different note, I also wrote this story to support teachers. The book is designed to support instruction in literacy, and there are supplemental materials available for teachers on my Gumroad site. Having taught for nearly 20 years, I loved creating these instructional guides and I know classroom teachers are always looking for quality stories to use in instruction.
Unlike the plethora of darker tales that flood the market for middle grade and teen readers, this story focuses on celebrating the call to live virtuously. There are spiritual undertones interspersed throughout the tale, including the very special character Princess Tiara meets at her crowning.
I hope you enjoy reading the story as much as I enjoyed writing it.
From the dedication:
To my amazing nieces and nephews. You have each blessed the world in the most remarkable ways. Writing this story to honor and celebrate your unique and wonderful virtues is the only way I know to tell you how dearly I love you. You inspire me always.
To my wonderful husband who has once again come alongside me in this endeavor. Your strength, patience, and perspective guide me in ways you will never know. You are my steady, and I love you to the depths.
To the many students I've instructed over the years and all who will read this story: May you choose to walk in virtue, and may you be surrounded by others who do the same. The world needs you.
To the Author of Life. With praise and thanksgiving, I offer this story to Your glory.
From the Back Cover
How does a young princess prove herself worthy to wear a royal crown when she's more passionate about exploring nature?
Tiara, the youngest princess in the royal family of the Kingdom of Fruitful, is the only child yet to wear a crown. The crowns of her six older siblings sparkle with a special gem they earned by a test of character. Now, as the last royal heir, Tiara must demonstrate a virtue she'd rather not even think about.
Can Tiara become a princess with purpose? What will her virtue be and what jewel will she earn for her crown? Perhaps a mysterious, old woman wearing a cloak that often glows can guide her quest? But will she pay attention to these encounters?
Princess Tiara and the Crown of Virtues is a must read for middle grade students, teachers, and parents. It will stimulate thought and discussion about what it means to be virtuous.
About the Author
About the Author
Janet Fichter writes to inspire readers to take a balcony view of challenging circumstances in order to gain a broader, more spiritual perspective. Having a long career in public education, she has now written a book classroom teachers can use for instructional purposes or just for simple enjoyment. Princess Tiara and the Crown of Virtues is a story that appeals to upper elementary and middle grade readers.
Janet is also the author of The Ministry of the Unveiled Face (available wherever books are sold). Her blog contains both non-fiction and poetry pieces. Additionally, her writing has appeared in literary journals and anthologies.
