The Princess Diaries

by Meg Cabot
The Princess Diaries cover
Good Books rating 3.33
Young Adult (YA)
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Waterstones
Paperback • £8.99
Amazon
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Technical
  • ID: 6515
  • Added: 2025-11-18
  • Updated: 2026-02-22
  • ISBN: 9780330482066
  • Publisher: Pan Macmillan
  • Published: 2001-01-01
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 4

Mia Thermopolis, a 14-year-old girl, discovers she is a princess and must navigate the complexities of royal life. Her world turns upside down when she accidentally announces her mother's pregnancy on live TV, causing a media frenzy and a flurry of royal preparations. /n/n As Mia's Grandmere plans the year's biggest society wedding, Mia grapples with her newfound responsibilities and the challenges of growing up in the public eye. The story is a delightful blend of humor, drama, and coming-of-age themes, set against the backdrop of a royal family in turmoil.

Reviews
Amy S. Brown · Amy S. Brown · 2024-12-26
golden 5.00

They absolutely loved everything about the book, finding it different from the movie yet equally sparkling. The book was described as golden.

Amy S. Brown had an overwhelmingly positive experience with The Princess Diaries, describing it as 'golden'. They appreciated how the book differed from its movie adaptation while still maintaining a sparkling quality. The reviewer's enthusiasm for the book is evident in their praise, highlighting that it was a standout read for them. They found the story and characters to be engaging and enjoyable, making it a book they would highly recommend to others.

Quick quotes

    This book is GOLDEN.

    I absolutely loved everything about this book.

    This book was so different from the movie and yet it still sparkles.

Young Creative Press · 2024-07-04
problematic 1.50

They found the book problematic as an adult, though they think they would have loved it as a teen. The issues were surprising and notable.

The reviewer feels that The Princess Diaries is a book that would have resonated much more with them as a teenager. As an adult, they found several aspects of the book problematic, which was surprising to them. The issues they highlighted suggest that the book's themes and character development might not hold up as well for an older audience. However, they acknowledge that the book has a certain charm that likely appeals to its target demographic of young readers.

Quick quotes

    I feel like I would have loved this book as a teen but as an adult it's problematic.

    Like surprisingly problematic.

    I get that this came out in 2000, but still.

Young Creative Press · 2024-07-04
problematic 3.00

The reviewer feels the book would have been loved as a teen but finds it problematic as an adult, noting that some aspects are surprisingly problematic. They acknowledge the book's nostalgic value but also point out its flaws.

The reviewer from Young Creative Press reflects on 'The Princess Diaries' with a mix of nostalgia and criticism. They believe the book would have been a favorite as a teenager but find it problematic when viewed through an adult lens. The reviewer acknowledges the book's nostalgic value, particularly in capturing the drama and absurdity of high school. However, they also point out that some aspects of the book are surprisingly problematic, which might not have been apparent to a younger reader. This nuanced perspective highlights the book's strengths and weaknesses, making it a thought-provoking read for both teens and adults.

Quick quotes

    I feel like I would have loved this book as a teen but as an adult it's problematic.

    Like surprisingly problematic.

    I get that this came out in 2000 and times have changed.

A Journey of Words · Kristi Drillien · 2021-05-31
charming 3.80

The diary format makes the story engaging and relatable, capturing the chaos and humor of Mia's new life as a princess. The book's charm lies in its ability to blend the mundane with the extraordinary, making it a delightful read.

Kristi Drillien appreciates the unique diary format of 'The Princess Diaries,' which brings a personal and intimate touch to Mia's journey. She finds the book charming and humorous, particularly enjoying how Mia navigates the absurdities of her new royal life. The reviewer highlights the book's ability to blend everyday teenage problems with the fantastical elements of being a princess, making it a relatable and entertaining read. Drillien also notes that the book's humor and heart make it a standout, especially for young readers who can see themselves in Mia's struggles and triumphs.

Quick quotes

    The book is written entirely as diary entries from Mia as she finds out she's a princess and deals with the fallout from that.

    The diary format makes the story engaging and relatable.

    The book's charm lies in its ability to blend the mundane with the extraordinary.

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