Princess Amber

by Margaret Wright

Princess Amber was written as a celebration of the short but amazing life of a young child in the author's class. It talks about all the activities that moved the heart of this little girl. Born with a severe medical condition and walking only with assistance, she desired more than anything else to dance on the stage. So determined was she to dance, she threw away her walking stick and never used it again.

She had an international following. The Lion's Club in Australia hosted an international gathering of the Lions in Sydney, and she appeared in front of them all as one with a triumphant spirit. Film crews came from Chicago to do a documentary on her and her school. The Lion's Club in California is named after her.

The governor general of Australia was a special friend. She came to Amber's school to open a playground for children with special needs. Amber presented her with a bouquet of flowers. She, in turn, asked Amber and her friends to come to Admiralty House for a special Christmas party that she was hosting.

The book tells of all the adventures this amazing child experienced. Her mother wanted the book published as an encouragement to parents who look at their newborn baby, with huge medical problems, and wonder whatever is going to become of their little one. Her heart is that all will be encouraged and be overcomers, supported by so much love from so many people.

24 pages, Paperback

Published November 22, 2016

Reviews

[Elena · Rating 5 out of 5]

Princess Amber is a tender and uplifting tribute to a child whose courage far exceeded her years. Margaret Wright tells Amber’s story with warmth and reverence, focusing not on limitation, but on determination, joy, and an unshakable spirit. The narrative gently invites readers into Amber’s world, one shaped by severe medical challenges, yet defined by her fierce desire to live fully and dance freely.

What makes this book especially moving is its emphasis on community and love. Amber’s story is not only about personal triumph, but about the network of people who believed in her, from international organizations to national leaders who recognized her strength and humanity. By sharing Amber’s adventures and achievements, the book offers hope to parents facing uncertainty and reminds readers that impact is not measured by length of life, but by the depth of inspiration one leaves behind.

[Stacie · Rating 3 out of 5]

What an amazing author and great idea for a book! I enjoyed reading about the author and the backstory more than the actual story itself. For a very young audience, there were too many words on some of the pages. Knowing the backstory made it a good read, but I'm not sure I could read it aloud in a manner that would give the story justice. Some of the words wouldn't make sense to a younger crowd ("Trachi gone, no tubes or pain, no ventilator, just the perfect way.")

[Roxanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a Goodreads win review. This is the most darling book. A special ed teacher who teaches these wonderful children wrote this book for the mother and for the world to know these students sweet and sometimes short lives.