The Twelve Dancing Princesses
Twelve royal sisters live under strict rules, dressed in delicate gowns and expected to sit still and smile. But each night, they escape into a secret world of wild dancing, discovering the power of their own voices and bodies in this poetic retelling of a classic fairy tale.
This story has been written and illustrated by real humans.
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Vocabulary
- Proclamation
- A public announcement made by someone important, like a king, to tell everyone something big.
- Diaphanous
- Very light and see-through, like fairy wings or a thin scarf.
- Edict
- A rule or command from someone in charge, like a law made by a king.
- Crockery
- Fancy plates, cups, and bowls usually used for special occasions.
- Snuck
- Moved quietly and secretly so no one would see or hear.
- Thunder
- To move with loud, heavy steps – like a herd of elephants!
- Vie
- To compete or try very hard to win something.
- Authority
- The power to be in charge or make decisions for others.
Context
The Twelve Dancing Princesses is a modern retelling of a classic fairy tale. In this version, twelve royal sisters secretly defy the expectations placed upon them by their father, the King, and discover a hidden joy in dancing.
The story uses poetic language, repetition, and vivid imagery to highlight the themes of independence, personal power, and identity. Through the contrast between rigid tradition and the sisters’ creative rebellion, readers are invited to reflect on freedom and self-expression.
This tale supports social-emotional learning by encouraging children to question unfair rules and celebrate their individuality.
Discussion questions
Spark a conversation with your child and connect the story to real-life lessons.
Individuality
- Why do you think the princesses wanted to express themselves in different ways?
- Can you think of a time when you did something different from what others expected?
- How does being yourself help you feel proud and happy?
Personal Power, Independence
- How do the princesses take control of their own lives?
- What does it mean to have personal power, even when others are in charge?
- Why is it important to stand up for what you love?
Family
- How do the daughters’ feelings about their father change during the story?
- Can parents and children sometimes want different things? How can they talk about it?
- What would you do if someone in your family didn’t listen to what made you happy?
Creativity
- Why do you think the princesses choose dancing as their way to express themselves?
- What are some creative ways you like to have fun or show how you feel?
- How can being creative help you when things feel strict or unfair?
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FAQs about ‘The Twelve Dancing Princesses’
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Credits
This story was brought to life by these awesome real humans!
- Written by: Jade Maitre
- Illustrated by: Anthony E. Leah
- Edited, designed and narrated by: Jade Maitre
- Music video from “Egmont Overture” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), “Canon in D for Two Renaissance Harps” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), “Ascending the Vale” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), “Relent” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), “Egmont Overture Finale” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), “Unholy Knight” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), “Aquarium” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com). Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License, http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
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