Cinderella Ate My Daughter by

In Cinderella Ate My Daughter, Peggy Orenstein delves into the phenomenon of the girlie-girl culture that has taken over childhood. She examines how the emphasis on appearance and consumerism affects young girls, from the rise of princess culture to the pressures of beauty pageants. Orenstein's investigation reveals the potential negative impacts, including premature sexualization and increased rates of narcissism, and offers insights for parents to counteract these influences. /n/nThe book is a wake-up call for parents and society, highlighting the commercialization of girlhood and the messages it sends to young girls about their worth and identity. Orenstein's journey takes her to places like Disneyland and American Girl Place, where she observes firsthand the pervasive nature of this culture. Armed with awareness, she argues, parents can help their daughters navigate these challenges and foster a healthier sense of self.

Reviews

The StoryGraph · 2025-10-21

educational 4.20

The book is praised for its educational content and clever, funny writing style. The reviewer appreciates how the author makes complex issues accessible and enjoyable.

A reviewer from The StoryGraph highly praises Peggy Orenstein's book for its educational content and clever, funny writing style. They appreciate how the author makes complex issues related to media and marketing influences on young girls accessible and enjoyable. The reviewer finds the book to be very good, highlighting its ability to educate while keeping the reader engaged. The insightful and entertaining approach makes it a standout read for anyone interested in the cultural impact on young girls.

Quick quotes

I really liked this book about trying to raise smart, confident girls when they are being bombarded by so much media and marketing.

The author made it clever and funny so you don't even realize you're learning.

Very good book.

Stephany Writes · Stephany · 2025-10-21

relevant 4.50

The book is praised as a must-read for anyone who cares about girls and their development. The reviewer finds it particularly relevant for parents navigating the challenges of raising confident and smart girls.

Stephany from Stephany Writes highly recommends Peggy Orenstein's book as a must-read for anyone who cares about girls and their development. They find the book particularly relevant for parents who are helping their daughters navigate the rocky road to adulthood. The reviewer appreciates the book's insightful exploration of the media and marketing influences on young girls, providing valuable perspectives and advice for parents. The engaging and informative content makes it a compelling read for anyone interested in the well-being and growth of young girls.

Quick quotes

Cinderella Ate My Daughter is a must-read for anyone who cares about girls, and for parents helping their daughters navigate the rocky road to adulthood.

The book provides valuable perspectives and advice for parents.

The engaging and informative content makes it a compelling read.

The New York Times · Paul · 2011-01-21

critical 4.00

The book takes a critical look at the princess industrial complex, highlighting its calculated practices and the impact on young girls. The reviewer appreciates the author's insightful and engaging approach to the topic.

The reviewer from The New York Times finds Peggy Orenstein's exploration of the princess industrial complex both insightful and engaging. They highlight how Orenstein's book sheds light on the coolly calculating practices of this industry, which contrasts sharply with the soft and fluffy products it markets to young girls. The reviewer appreciates the author's ability to navigate this complex issue with a blend of critical analysis and engaging storytelling, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in the cultural impact on young girls.

Quick quotes

Orenstein takes us on a tour of the princess industrial complex, its practices as coolly calculating as its products are soft and fluffy.

The book is a compelling read for anyone interested in the cultural impact on young girls.

Orenstein's exploration is both insightful and engaging.

Appears in Lists

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