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The Paper Princess
The Paper Princess
A gust of wind sends a paper princess flying. "Wait! I didn't finish you," cries the little girl who made her. "I'll finish myself," calls the princess, and the wind carries her away, over a meadow and a river, to a carnival and a town, until finally she finds her way home.
"Elisa Kleven's mixed-media collages are a kaleidoscope of color and activity, encompassing a vast, multiracial cast of happy people?" (Publishers Weekly) .
"The best book yet from this talented author/illustrator, and one that children will love." — School Library Journal , starred review
Elisa Kleven's award-winning picture books include her own Ernst and The Lion and the Little Red Bird , the illustrations for Abuela , by Arthur Dorros, and her most recent book for Dutton, The Puddle Pail . She lives near San Francisco, California.
"Elisa Kleven's mixed-media collages are a kaleidoscope of color and activity, encompassing a vast, multiracial cast of happy people?" (Publishers Weekly) .
"The best book yet from this talented author/illustrator, and one that children will love." — School Library Journal , starred review
Elisa Kleven's award-winning picture books include her own Ernst and The Lion and the Little Red Bird , the illustrations for Abuela , by Arthur Dorros, and her most recent book for Dutton, The Puddle Pail . She lives near San Francisco, California.
40 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1994
About the author
Elisa Kleven
57 books48 followersElisa Kleven is the author and/or illustrator of over 30 childrens picture books. Favorites with children and adults alike, Elisa's books have received awards and honors from the American Library Association, The New York Times , The Junior Library Guild, School Library Journal, and the American Institute of Graphic Arts. Her pictures from Abuela are part of a traveling show organized by the Minnesota Children's Museum, and her story The Paper Princess has been adapted for two theater productions, one in Ireland and the other in California. Elisa lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with her family and pets. To learn more about Elisa and her books, please visit her web site: www.elisakleven.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
May 14, 2026
Originally published in 1994, THE PAPER PRINCESS , by Elisa Kleven is a reissue of the original that will now be available in Kindle as well as paperback and hardcover from Dutton. This edition is bulked up from 32 to 40 pages.
Kleven is both author and illustrator for this whimsical story. She uses color and movement to add to the enjoyment while reading. Whimsical and heartfelt are two words that describe the story: a young girl draws the paper doll that gets swept away in a breeze. The paper doll princess spends most of the story trying to get back to “her girl”. She’s helped by a few characters along the way my favorite being a blue bird that carries her over the landscape by grabbing the lightweight princess with her feet.
Most of the story is drawn from a sky down perspective making the journey fun for readers and the princess. Vibrant colors and a free wheeling storyline was engaging, fun and humorous. My friend’s three year old “read” my copy for a solid 27 minutes by herself and then wanted her mom to read it to her; a rousing success!
Recommended for family and school libraries📚
I received a copy for review purposes. All opinions are honest and mine alone.
Read & Reviewed from a NetGalley eARC with thanks to the publisher and author.
Kleven is both author and illustrator for this whimsical story. She uses color and movement to add to the enjoyment while reading. Whimsical and heartfelt are two words that describe the story: a young girl draws the paper doll that gets swept away in a breeze. The paper doll princess spends most of the story trying to get back to “her girl”. She’s helped by a few characters along the way my favorite being a blue bird that carries her over the landscape by grabbing the lightweight princess with her feet.
Most of the story is drawn from a sky down perspective making the journey fun for readers and the princess. Vibrant colors and a free wheeling storyline was engaging, fun and humorous. My friend’s three year old “read” my copy for a solid 27 minutes by herself and then wanted her mom to read it to her; a rousing success!
Recommended for family and school libraries📚
I received a copy for review purposes. All opinions are honest and mine alone.
Read & Reviewed from a NetGalley eARC with thanks to the publisher and author.
April 19, 2022
You could have heard a pin drop when we read this one aloud.
April 24, 2010
A little girl is making a paper doll of a princess when the wind blows it away. The paper princess has many adventures while trying to find her way home.
The colorful, crowded, energetic mixed media illustrations are the high point of this book. There are innumerable details, and restless children may be kept busy finding sets, such as which treats are being eaten at the carnival and how many dogs are in the houses-at-night scene.
The colorful, crowded, energetic mixed media illustrations are the high point of this book. There are innumerable details, and restless children may be kept busy finding sets, such as which treats are being eaten at the carnival and how many dogs are in the houses-at-night scene.
February 22, 2025
Another from my kid's book haul! This book instantly caught my eye with its unique illustrations! The story turned out to be so sweet and actually had some layers to it! And of course, the illustrations were gorgeous throughout!
June 1, 2026
I had never come across this children’s book in my childhood, as this book was originally published in the 90s, and I wish I had. The mixed media illustrations are gorgeous. They are full of bright colors and very lovingly detailed.
The story itself has the feel of a classic fairytale with a little bit of a plot twist at the end. I feel like my child would really enjoy this book at bed time.
I received an ARC review of the reissue (publishing June 29th) thanks to NetGalley.
The story itself has the feel of a classic fairytale with a little bit of a plot twist at the end. I feel like my child would really enjoy this book at bed time.
I received an ARC review of the reissue (publishing June 29th) thanks to NetGalley.
May 28, 2026
Oh my goodness did I love this book! The illustrations are charming (I loved when the picture showed the princess from both sides). The story is so lovely - a gentle ode to creativity, imagination, and our relationships with each other and all creatures. Other pluses: the girl drew a princess, but it wasn’t a standard “Disney-fied” princess - it was a lovely chaos of everything the girl liked. It’s always so wonderful when a book presents creativity in such a beautiful way.
This is a reissue and I didn’t see the original so can’t compare it, But I will be recommending this! Many thanks to Tiny Torch Books and NetGalley for allowing me to read this ARC, All opinions are my own.
This is a reissue and I didn’t see the original so can’t compare it, But I will be recommending this! Many thanks to Tiny Torch Books and NetGalley for allowing me to read this ARC, All opinions are my own.
September 9, 2014
Elisa Kleven's storybook "The Paper Princess" tells about a young girl who uses so much imagination to draw up a beautiful paper princess one day, cuts her out of the square paper and takes her to play on her swing to think of a good way to give her paper doll her hair and then suddenly the wind blows the Paper Princess away and she starts on her adventure to find her hair so she can finish what the little girl started.The Paper Princess makes friends along the way and they help her to finish the parts of her that the little girl didn't finish and then in the end the Paper Princess and the little girl are reunited at last.
Kleven's illustrations throughout the book may be the first thing that grabs anyones attention who looks at the book. The illustrations are so unique and beautifully well done that makes you want to see the beautiful story that's being told. In other words I think it's the authors unique illustrations that grab potential readers attention, not the story description. But the story itself is just as stunning as the illustrations. The page that I feel to be the most poetically written and illustrated is when the Paper Princess is being carried by the wind of the city at night. Kleven illustrated this section of the book where you see into the snuggly little houses of the town and showing kids all across the city being tucked into bed. Kleven includes various cultures in this section as well adding even more beautiful culture and color to the story. This story has so many great meanings to it as well such as; sometimes in life you may be rejected by someone you have good faith in but it's not the end of the world. Also that family can come in all different shapes and sizes.
Kleven's illustrations throughout the book may be the first thing that grabs anyones attention who looks at the book. The illustrations are so unique and beautifully well done that makes you want to see the beautiful story that's being told. In other words I think it's the authors unique illustrations that grab potential readers attention, not the story description. But the story itself is just as stunning as the illustrations. The page that I feel to be the most poetically written and illustrated is when the Paper Princess is being carried by the wind of the city at night. Kleven illustrated this section of the book where you see into the snuggly little houses of the town and showing kids all across the city being tucked into bed. Kleven includes various cultures in this section as well adding even more beautiful culture and color to the story. This story has so many great meanings to it as well such as; sometimes in life you may be rejected by someone you have good faith in but it's not the end of the world. Also that family can come in all different shapes and sizes.
July 8, 2009
This is a really sweet book. The princess in the story is a paper doll. A little girl makes her and loses her before she puts on the hair. The princess is carried away by the wind, on an adventure to find her own hair. But, she misses the girl and finds her way back home. Very sweet! Beautiful illustrations.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 19, 2012
Beautiful story with beautiful, complex illustrations. The illustrations tell a tale in themselves, even without the imaginative narrative told by the words. I love this children's tale. It is a great book to read to my children, and a great book that they can flip through, look at the pictures and enjoy the tale told in the pictures on their own.
December 10, 2012
Another picture book for children! A moving story about a "paper princess" made by a little girl. The princess was blown away, since she was made of paper and the story is about her journey home. I like the naive-art used as the illustration.
April 21, 2015
I like this book because the paper doll's adventure reminds me of how we all grow up. A parent tries to raise you and sculpt you into the best person you can be but sometimes it's your experiences and the people you meet that helps you discover who you truly are.
January 14, 2017
I chose to read this book as it has always been one of my favorite childhood stories to read with my mom. I received it for Christmas when I was very young and was immediately intrigued by the pictures and adventurous story line!
June 19, 2009
We had to make our own princess after reading this, and she had to sleep with Alla, and has since been taped a bunch. Super warm, charming story.
February 3, 2011
An enchanting story with beautiful detailed illustrations. I loved that the princess was bald. Would have enjoyed reading this one aloud to my girls.
July 27, 2012
A really cute little story. Mara enjoyed it. We ended up drawing paper princesses after we got done with it. And we have read it over and over again.
July 17, 2012
July 17, 2012
June 22, 2026
The Paper Princess by Elisa Kleven is a delightful read for children and those who are young at heart. Kleven is definitely the latter, as evidenced by her skill in describing the Paper Princess's adventures and the deep love she has for her creator, to whom she desperately wants to return. The story beautifully illustrates the bond between siblings and the kindness of strangers, and its gentle tone makes this book a fabulous bedtime story.
As a former teacher, I can see multiple uses for The Paper Princess in the classroom. It is perfect for settling children down, or as an introduction to thematic units on community, acceptance, family, travel, and adventure. More importantly, we finally have a sweet female protagonist to rival Flat Stanley. Finding such a treasure can be difficult, so this is a highly welcome addition to any bookshelf. Highly recommend. #Elisakleven #thepaperprincessbook #The Collective Book Studio #readchildrensbooks #faithtrustandbreastcancerblog
I express my gratitude to Elisa Kleven, The Collective Book Studio and NetGalley for providing the opportunity to review The Paper Princess.
As a former teacher, I can see multiple uses for The Paper Princess in the classroom. It is perfect for settling children down, or as an introduction to thematic units on community, acceptance, family, travel, and adventure. More importantly, we finally have a sweet female protagonist to rival Flat Stanley. Finding such a treasure can be difficult, so this is a highly welcome addition to any bookshelf. Highly recommend. #Elisakleven #thepaperprincessbook #The Collective Book Studio #readchildrensbooks #faithtrustandbreastcancerblog
I express my gratitude to Elisa Kleven, The Collective Book Studio and NetGalley for providing the opportunity to review The Paper Princess.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A paper princess blows away before her hair can be drawn on her head. 👸
A young girl wishes to get her back. 👧
Will they be reunited?👭
I did not know about this classic story until I recently saw a review of the new and expanded edition on my GR friend Linda Gaiella's page. Thank you, Linda!😘
Fortunately a digital copy was available on NetGalley and I got a chance to preview the title.
Here is what I liked:
🎨The color palette is bright and inviting. I was immediately drawn in.
👩🦲A bald paper princess is blown out into the world before her girl can draw in the hair and add a crown. Entertaining attempts are made along the way to add her hair.
🥰The heartwarming conclusion is perfectly done. No spoilers here!
👀Busy little eyes will have plenty to spy on the pages of the book. Lots of little details about the world the princess explores on her adventures.
📚This book was originally released in 1994, the year my oldest was born. I love it that this classic is being reintroduced this year as a new and expanded edition.
Thank you to The Collective Book Studio/Tiny Torch Books and NetGalley for a DRC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
A young girl wishes to get her back. 👧
Will they be reunited?👭
I did not know about this classic story until I recently saw a review of the new and expanded edition on my GR friend Linda Gaiella's page. Thank you, Linda!😘
Fortunately a digital copy was available on NetGalley and I got a chance to preview the title.
Here is what I liked:
🎨The color palette is bright and inviting. I was immediately drawn in.
👩🦲A bald paper princess is blown out into the world before her girl can draw in the hair and add a crown. Entertaining attempts are made along the way to add her hair.
🥰The heartwarming conclusion is perfectly done. No spoilers here!
👀Busy little eyes will have plenty to spy on the pages of the book. Lots of little details about the world the princess explores on her adventures.
📚This book was originally released in 1994, the year my oldest was born. I love it that this classic is being reintroduced this year as a new and expanded edition.
Thank you to The Collective Book Studio/Tiny Torch Books and NetGalley for a DRC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
June 5, 2026
This beautiful reissue of a classic children's tale is absolutely beautiful! Elisa Kleven is both the author and illustrator of this sweet story filled with whimsy, color, love, and giving to others. The illustrations are saturated with color and activity which reflects the perfectly chosen descriptions. Most of the story takes place in the sky so readers get an arial view which helps you feel the movement as the princess travels. The illustrations alone can keep a curious reader busy as they enjoy the book.
This would make a great gift for a young child, classroom or school library, or just someone who loves to read beautifully written and illustrated children's books.
Thank you, NetGalley, The Collective Book Studio, and Tiny Torch Books, for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
similes
helping each other Blue Jay and Princess
This would make a great gift for a young child, classroom or school library, or just someone who loves to read beautifully written and illustrated children's books.
Thank you, NetGalley, The Collective Book Studio, and Tiny Torch Books, for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
similes
helping each other Blue Jay and Princess
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to Tiny Torch Books and Netgalley for the advance review copy! As always all opinions shared here are 100% my own.
This is my first time reading 'The Paper Princess' despite hearing about the classic from many, many friends who either grew up on it or read it for their children. And I now see why.
This beautiful book tickles imaginations so sweetly and wholesomely. The idea itself is so unique. A handmade paper princess trying to find her way home.
The art in this edition is gorgeous and brings the story to life. The lyrical writing is dreamlike and reads like a warm hug.
I really should have read this book sooner.
You can also find me on: Instagram (MoonlightCocoa) and Instagram (MoonlightCupOfStories)
This is my first time reading 'The Paper Princess' despite hearing about the classic from many, many friends who either grew up on it or read it for their children. And I now see why.
This beautiful book tickles imaginations so sweetly and wholesomely. The idea itself is so unique. A handmade paper princess trying to find her way home.
The art in this edition is gorgeous and brings the story to life. The lyrical writing is dreamlike and reads like a warm hug.
I really should have read this book sooner.
You can also find me on: Instagram (MoonlightCocoa) and Instagram (MoonlightCupOfStories)
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Paper Princess is a deluxe reissue of the 1994 classic picture book about creativity, courage, and imagination.
The story celebrates resilience and belonging as the princess learns to find her own way in the world. This imaginative heroine doesn't rely on castles or crowns. She discovers her strength through creativity, curiosity, and determination.
I really appreciate the theme of the story. The author and illustrator is clearly talented. However, the illustrations and story itself are a bit too busy for my preference. There's too much going on within the pages and the simplicity of the message is lost in there somewhere.
The story celebrates resilience and belonging as the princess learns to find her own way in the world. This imaginative heroine doesn't rely on castles or crowns. She discovers her strength through creativity, curiosity, and determination.
I really appreciate the theme of the story. The author and illustrator is clearly talented. However, the illustrations and story itself are a bit too busy for my preference. There's too much going on within the pages and the simplicity of the message is lost in there somewhere.
May 9, 2018
A little girl makes a paper doll but before she can give her hair, she blows away to have an adventure.
Ages: 5 - 8
Cleanliness: someone says "My gracious!"
**Like my reviews? I also have hundreds of detailed reports that I offer too. These reports give a complete break-down of everything in the book, so you'll know just how clean it is or isn't. I also have Clean Guides (downloadable PDFs) which enable you to clean up your book before reading it! Visit my website: The Book Radar.
Ages: 5 - 8
Cleanliness: someone says "My gracious!"
**Like my reviews? I also have hundreds of detailed reports that I offer too. These reports give a complete break-down of everything in the book, so you'll know just how clean it is or isn't. I also have Clean Guides (downloadable PDFs) which enable you to clean up your book before reading it! Visit my website: The Book Radar.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is such a fun book that many children will relate to, whether in terms of drawing a picture, having a doll, losing a beloved toy and finding it again or even to the multiple activities happening in the lovely illustration. And the illustrations—they are so colorful, full and fun.
I want a copy of this to read to my granddaughter, and I imagine she’ll want to hear it over and over and even make her own paper princess!
Thanks to NetGalley for a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
I want a copy of this to read to my granddaughter, and I imagine she’ll want to hear it over and over and even make her own paper princess!
Thanks to NetGalley for a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Paper Princess is the story of a little girl who makes a paper doll, a princess. Before she can finish it, the princess blows away. The story shares the adventures of the princess and her journey to find her little girl. I loved the ending of the story. It is beautifully illustrated.
Thank you to NetGalley and The Collective Book Studio/ Tiny Torch Books for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley and The Collective Book Studio/ Tiny Torch Books for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
While this is an updated version of a classic (scheduled for publication 6/30/26), I had not read it before. I really enjoyed the story and will be sharing this one with my granddaughters. The illustrations are lovely, with so much detail. This is one of those books you'll want to sit down and spend some time enjoying together.
#ThePaperPrincess #NetGalley
#ThePaperPrincess #NetGalley
September 25, 2017
Good for preschoolers/school age. Good story, great illustrations. A lot going on.
January 29, 2020
My kids loved this book (me too) and would check it out often from the library when they were young. Love the story but the illustrations are lovely. A timeless book.
January 27, 2024
A fun introduction to the paper princess and her first adventure.
Have to say, my favorite was the book 2 in the series,
"The Paper Princess Finds Her Way"
Have to say, my favorite was the book 2 in the series,
"The Paper Princess Finds Her Way"
Read
February 22, 20262/21/26
April 16, 2026
Thank you NetGalley, Elisa Kleven & The Collective Book Studio for this e-arc
I read this to practice translating into Spanish ^-^
review to come:)
I read this to practice translating into Spanish ^-^
review to come:)
June 20, 2026
Cute picture book. Loved the illustrations. Thanks to Booktrovert for the free read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews