Storytelling is, by and large, a form of manipulation, so I tend to avoid using the word "manipulative" when describing a book. But A Little Princess falls under the type of story I would actually deem, to some degree, as manipulative.

It has a likeable main character with a charming little story that falls flat under deeper examination. Why is Crewe so perfect in spite of her spoiled background? Because it fits the story well enough. The purpose of the book is for you to fall in love with Crewe, to desire a friend like her, if you were to read this as a child, maybe even live the life she's living (virtuous, and yet, privileged). So yes, this is an escapist story. But it uses its appealing nature to pretend it's showing a example of virtue through Crewe's actions. It almost succeeds at that level, but to me it's still too "obvious" to be truly successful. Crewe's trials are external, not often enough internal.

I didn't like it.