Royalty in Twenty-First Century Children’s and Young Adult Literature

This insightful literary analysis examines how contemporary children's and young adult literature reimagines royal characters through a folkloric framework, tracing the evolution of princes and princesses beyond their traditional fairy tale origins. Amie A. Doughty demonstrates how modern authors transform these archetypes from classic folklore and Disney adaptations into more complex figures, with particular attention to expanding gender roles that challenge conventional expectations. The study carefully documents how twenty-first century royalty in literature reflects changing social values while maintaining narrative connections to traditional storytelling structures. This scholarly work provides valuable context for understanding the cultural shifts represented in current middle grade and YA fiction featuring royal protagonists.

Doughty's examination stands out through its specific focus on narrative transformation mechanisms, particularly analyzing how different forms of abdication—whether from throne, tradition, or expected roles—create new pathways to fulfillment for royal characters. The book offers educators and parents critical tools for discussing character development and social evolution in children's literature, while providing young adult readers deeper insight into the stories they enjoy. By demonstrating how contemporary royal narratives maintain folkloric roots while embracing progressive values, this analysis reveals why modern princess and prince stories continue to captivate audiences while modeling more inclusive representations of leadership and identity.