
Princess Academy
by Shannon Hale1 of 3
Miri lives on a mountain where her people have mined linder stone for generations. When the king’s priests announce that the next princess will be chosen from her village, Miri and the other girls are sent to a remote academy to learn the ways of the court. Feeling out of place and longing for her home, Miri must navigate the challenges of competition, harsh teachers, and the discovery of a mysterious mountain power known as quarry-speech.
This Newbery Honor-winning novel is perfect for children who love stories about strong heroines, magical settings, and the power of education. It is ideal for readers interested in fairy tales with a realistic twist and those who enjoy watching a character find their own voice and strength. Shannon Hale crafts a beautiful world that explores the value of community and the importance of knowledge, making it a great choice for fans of classic fantasy and character-driven adventures.
Highlights:
- A compelling story about the transformative power of education and literacy.
- Unique magical elements centered around the mountain's mysterious quarry-speech.
- Strong themes of female friendship, solidarity, and overcoming rivalry.
- A relatable protagonist who learns to value her own unique strengths and heritage.

Palace of Stone
by Shannon Hale2 of 3
In Palace of Stone, the captivating sequel to the Newbery Honor-winning Princess Academy, Miri leaves her mountain home for the bustling capital city of Asland. As she prepares for the royal wedding of her best friend, Britta, Miri finds herself caught between the luxury of the palace and the growing unrest of the city's commoners. This thought-provoking story explores the complexities of power, the importance of education, and the difficult choices one must make when loyalty is tested.
Perfect for children who love stories about strong-willed heroines and intricate world-building, this novel is an ideal choice for readers interested in political intrigue and social justice. Shannon Hale masterfully balances personal growth with high-stakes drama, making it a great choice for fans of character-driven fantasy. Readers will be swept away by Miri’s journey as she navigates the 'Palace of Stone' and discovers that true change requires more than just magic—it requires courage and conviction.
Highlights:
- A compelling exploration of social justice and political revolution.
- Deep development of friendships and romantic relationships.
- Features a strong, intelligent female protagonist who values education.
- Richly detailed setting that expands the world of the Princess Academy.

The Forgotten Sisters
by Shannon Hale3 of 3
In the final installment of the acclaimed Princess Academy series, Miri is called upon by the King to travel to the remote Lesser Mount. Her mission is to tutor three sisters—Astrid, Felissa, and Sus—who are potential candidates for the royal family. However, Miri arrives to find the sisters living in a swampy, neglected state, far from the polished princesses she expected. This enchanting tale follows Miri as she uses her wit and compassion to reach the girls while uncovering a larger political conspiracy that threatens the kingdom.
Shannon Hale weaves a masterful story about the power of education and the strength found in unexpected bonds. This book is perfect for children who love stories about strong female leads, intricate world-building, and the importance of standing up for what is right. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in fairy-tale-inspired adventures that tackle deeper social themes like justice and equality. Fans of the previous books will find a satisfying conclusion to Miri's journey, while new readers will be drawn in by the lush prose and compelling characters.
Highlights:
- A strong, intelligent female protagonist who values education and empathy.
- Themes of sisterhood and overcoming adversity in difficult circumstances.
- A blend of political intrigue and magical realism set in a unique world.
- The concluding chapter of a beloved Newbery Honor-winning series.
