Elas só citavam o pequeno príncipe: a história dos concursos de Miss Brasil e de Miss Paraíba

Abstract

They only mentioned the little prince: the history of the Miss Brazil and Miss Paraíba pageants by Wills Leal is a fascinating work that combines the precision of historiography with the beauty of literature. The book is part of the Paraíba Literária collection, which celebrates the rich literary tapestry of Paraíba authors. Leal delves deeply into the history of the Miss Brazil and Miss Paraíba pageants, bringing to light the untold stories of the women who participated in these events. The book’s title is an intriguing reference to the literary classic “The Little Prince,” suggesting that these women, often seen only for their beauty, had aspirations and dreams that went beyond the pageant stage. The author does an excellent job of balancing academic rigor with engaging narrative, creating a vivid portrait of an often-overlooked aspect of Brazilian history. It highlights the importance of these contests in the formation of Brazilian cultural identity, while also questioning the beauty standards and gender expectations they perpetuate. In short, “They only mentioned the little prince: the history of the Miss Brazil and Miss Paraíba contests” is essential reading for anyone interested in Brazilian history, gender studies, or literature from Paraíba. It is a work that challenges and delights, illuminating the past in a way that resonates deeply in the present.