What a lot of responses!
To answer some questions.
No I don't read Sleeping Beauty, Snow White or Cinderella at home. DD has had the opportunity to watch Cinderella a few times, but won't stay in the room because of the music. Sofia the First was on TV this weekend and DD asked to watch something else.
DD does have a Rapunzel dressing up dress and regularly watches Tangled & we have the interactive book on the iPad. She is getting a Merida costume for Xmas, she also has the book, but isn't very interested in it. Her life isn't completely devoid of any Princess material.
I am a feminist that believes in equality. Not sure where in my opening post conveys that I don't believe in equality. If there are other books that are brought home that I have an issue with, I will respond in same way. My question was over this book in particular, as it is the first, hopefully only, book I have a problem with.
The book is terribly simplistic, pretty blonde princess in a pink dress etc.
I am certain the books are chosen by the teacher / TA. Tuesday's is library day, when they get to choose two books to bring home for the week. Last week DD chose two reference books about birds, this week the Wishing Wand and Four Franks.
Thanks a lot for all the suggestions of great books. We do already have Zog. I think DD will love the one with the pirates.
We do try and analyse and talk about the books, but DD just isn't there yet. I try and talk to her about the best / favourite / most fun thing in a playground and she won't engage. She is four and a quarter and sees things in a very simplistic way and is usually focussed on one thing at a time. So whilst I appreciate peoples comments to use this as a learning opportunity, there isn't one there at the moment.
That aside, it doesn't stop me being unhappy about the book being standard reading material.
The book is changed over today, so I'll see if there is any reaction from the school.