In the fall of 1980, Annick Press first published Robert Munsch's tale of a dragon, a princess named Elizabeth, and the bum of a prince she rescues. Playfully illustrated by Michael Martchenko, and full of Munsch's now-famous wit, the book was an instant success and has since sold millions of copies in dozens of languages all over the world.

To celebrate the 25th birthday of this modern classic, Annick presents the familiar story of The Paper Bag Princess in all its exuberance, along with more than 30 pages of never-before published behind-the-scenes features -- all in a new bigger format.

The Paper Bag Princess 25th Anniversary Edition presents the story behind the story.

Readers will discover how Munsch -- once on a path to becoming a priest -- became one of the most famous children's authors of all time. They'll learn how an extra space on a gallery wall landed Martchenko his first, and most legendary, children's book gig ever. And they'll meet the real Elizabeth and see what she's up to today.

Also included are never-before published sketches and paintings that take readers through the process of the book's creation. Further sections explore the book's critical success, its international popularity, and responses from fans old and new, including some surprising ones.