During the summer, my mom takes the boys to the library for their free events on the days I’m at work – and they have some great ones at our local library (definitely a good freebie place to take advantage of, especially on a ridiculously hot day like today).  For the past few weeks, the boys have been exploring the scientific section focusing on animals.  While I am as interested as the next parent in learning all of the facts about bugs, fish and mammals, these types of books get boring after a while – for both me and the boys.  This week, I suggested my mom go back to the “storybook” section.  Apparently, my boys pick out books like I do – based on the picture on the cover.  CheezWaster picked out a book called “The Princess Knight” because you know, it had a knight on the front cover.  Based solely on the title, I was a bit skeptical when I pulled it out of the library bag last night thinking it was going to be too girly, but it turns out it was an EXCELLENT book that both the boys and I thoroughly enjoyed.  The book, by Cornelia Funk tells of King Wilfred, who teaches his daughter the same knightly skills he has taught his three sons. Mocked by her brothers for being smaller and weaker, Violetta grows more determined to succeed. She creeps out at night to practice her sword fighting and horseback riding. With perseverance, the “nimble and quick” Princess becomes an expert jouster. In honor of her 16th birthday, the king announces a tournament with the victory prize being her hand in marriage. Outraged and appalled, Violetta cries: “You want me to marry some dimwit in a tin suit? Just look at your own knights! They whip their horses and they can’t even write their own names!” Taking matters into her own hands, she disguises herself in armor and poses as “Sir No-Name.” After defeating the other contenders, she reveals her true identity and chooses her prize–independence.  I highly recommend this book for both boys and girls, prissy or not.