As an author who has had the incredible honor of writing Disney princess stories — including Walt Disney's Cinderella: 75th Anniversary Edition, The Little Mermaid: Adventures on Land, and Tiana and the Mardi Gras Parade — I get asked all the time: what are the best Disney princess books for my child?
It's one of my favorite questions. Because there's something magical about watching a child fall in love with a story for the first time — and Disney princesses have been opening that door for generations. Here are my picks for the best Disney princess books right now, organized by age and reading level.
For Younger Readers (Ages 3–5)
At this age, you want vibrant illustrations, simple language, and stories that feel like being wrapped in a warm hug. Picture books are king here — they're perfect for bedtime reading, car rides, and that beautiful ritual of snuggling up with your child and a good story.
Walt Disney's Cinderella: 75th Anniversary Edition — I may be biased, but this is the one I'm most proud of. Maxine Vee's illustrations are absolutely breathtaking, and retelling a story that has meant so much to so many families for 75 years was one of the highlights of my career. It's a beautiful gift book too.
The Little Mermaid: Adventures on Land — If your child loved the live-action film with Halle Bailey, this is a must. I wrote it to capture that first-day-of-everything wonder that makes Ariel so special — the curiosity, the bravery, the joy of discovering something new.
Tiana and the Mardi Gras Parade / Snow White and the Princess Ball — Two princess stories in one book, and honestly such a fun project to write. Tiana's Mardi Gras story is especially close to my heart — I grew up celebrating Mardi Gras in New Orleans, and getting to bring that energy to a Disney story was a dream.
For Growing Readers (Ages 5–8)
This is such an exciting age. Your child is starting to read on their own, tackling longer stories, and connecting with characters on a deeper level. They're ready for books with more complex emotions, real-world themes, and characters they can truly see themselves in.
And this is where I want to tell you about someone very special.
Meet Millie Magnus: A New Kind of Heroine
After writing for Disney, I created something entirely my own: the Millie Magnus chapter book series. Millie is an exuberant, fashion-forward third-grader with a pet chicken named Extra Spicy, a closet full of hot pink rain boots, and the kind of personality that fills a room.
If your child loves Disney princesses because of their courage, their heart, and their refusal to be anything but themselves — they will adore Millie Magnus.
Millie Magnus Won't Be Bullied (Book 1) — Publishers Weekly called it "a charming series kickoff" and Kirkus praised its "whimsical protagonist certain to endear herself to readers." This is where the adventure begins.
Millie Magnus for Mayor (Book 2) — The Washington Post said Millie is "personality-plus" with "sweet and slightly brassy narration." When the neighborhood playground faces demolition, Millie runs for office to save it.
Millie Magnus Is NOT Jealous (Book 3, coming September 2026) — The newest installment! Millie faces her toughest challenge yet: keeping jealousy from ruining her friendships when she doesn't get the starring role in the school play. Pre-order now →
More Princess Books We Love
Brittany's Disney books are a wonderful starting point, but the world of princess stories has grown beautifully in recent years. Here are five more titles that expand what it means to be a princess — from athletic heroines to fairy godmothers-in-training.
Not All Princesses Dress in Pink by Jane Yolen (Ages 4–8)
This playful picture book smashes every princess stereotype in sight. These princesses play in the mud, build forts, and choose their own adventures. If your child has ever been told princesses don't do that, hand them this book and watch their eyes light up. It's a perfect companion for parents who want their kids to love princess stories without the limitations.
Princess Truly Series by Kelly Greenawalt (Ages 4–8)
Princess Truly has magical curly hair and an imagination that takes her on incredible adventures. She's joyful, confident, and Black — meaningful representation for children who rarely see characters like them in princess stories. The rhyming text and bright illustrations make this series an instant favorite for read-aloud time.
Bibbidi Bobbidi Academy by Kallie George (Ages 6–8)
What if there were a school for fairy godmothers? Rory Spellington starts her first year at the Academy, where she learns that kindness and unique talents are the greatest magic of all. This Disney-published illustrated chapter book series is an ideal bridge for kids moving from picture books to longer stories — and it fits perfectly alongside Brittany's Disney titles.
Tales of Courage and Kindness — Disney Princess Collection (Ages 3–7)
This deluxe collection features 14 original stories about all the Disney Princesses, each highlighting courage and kindness with art from diverse illustrators. It's a gorgeous gift book and a wonderful way to introduce the full princess lineup to younger readers who are just discovering their favorites.
5-Minute Princess Stories by Disney Press (Ages 3–7)
Twelve stories starring every princess from Snow White to Moana, each designed to be read aloud in five minutes. It's become a bedtime staple in homes everywhere. If your child can't choose a favorite princess (and honestly, why should they?), this book gives everyone equal stage time.
Why Representation in Princess Stories Matters
I grew up in Memphis, Tennessee, reading voraciously — but most of my favorite characters didn't look like me. So I reimagined them. That experience shaped everything I write today. Whether I'm retelling Cinderella for Disney or creating Millie Magnus from scratch, my mission is the same: to create stories where every child can see themselves as the hero.
That's what makes great children's books — not just beautiful illustrations or clever plots, but the feeling a child gets when they open a book and think: that's me.
Looking for a school visit or author appearance? Brittany visits schools nationwide with interactive presentations on reading, writing, creativity, and representation. Get in touch →