Books like The Serpent Slayer: And Other Stories of Strong Women

I've just read this quickly before sending it to my niece. I'm disappointed that the prose doesn't sparkle. Tchana is a pedestrian stylist and there are certainly better-written folktales. But the content is fabulous. The 'princesses' are bright, curious, patient, physically courageous, thoughtful, assertive girls; heroines every one. There's a canny old woman who outwits the the devil, and a poor peasant girl who stands up to the king. I'm particularly pleased that there are many black/brown girls, and that the excellent, evocative illustrations show strong, healthy, active bodies. Not an anorexic or silicone victim in the bunch.This should be a good antidote to Disney. Highly recommended.