Auburn Alumna writes fairy tale book with message

By Sarah Loveless

Once upon a time, Auburn alumna Susan Johnston decided it was time to show women of all ages that they could have just as much joy without a "prince charming" as they would with one. So, she wrote a book, Princess Bubble.

Johnston graduated in 1988 with a bachelor's degree in public relations, and is a forth generation Auburn graduate.

Her Auburn experience with public relations equipped her with the skills needed to do most of the publicity for Princess Bubble.

The book, written with friend, Kimberly Webb and illustrated by Maria Tonelli, has acquired a national audience and tells a story on an educated, world-traveling single woman.

Just like many students facing the "real" world, Johnston didn't know what her plans were after she graduated. She decided to become a flight attendant for Delta Air Lines because she had a passion for traveling and wanted to see the world.

The book paralleled most aspects of Johnston's life as princess Bubble is a flight attendant for The Royal Heir Line.

Princess Bubble has become a great source of comfort for many women, just as Johnston and Webb had hoped.

"Countless women of all demographics have not only loved the message of Princess Bubble, but have gone out of their way to help us get the word out," Johnston said. "Many women have told us that their marriage actually improved once they were reminded that their husband is not responsible for their entire happiness, but a gift to share their happiness with."

Princess Bubble's success has allowed Johnston and Webb to travel to many different cities around the Southeast.

They have been guest on numerous shows including "Good Day Atlanta,' "Better Mornings" and "The Today Show."

"The Today Show' was a once in a lifetime opportunity to truly feel like a today princess," Johnston said. "We sat next to Matt Lauer in makeup. He is too cute."

Along with the newly found recognition, the author has also been met with criticism because of its feminist message. Johnston acknowledges that she is "the first to want to be treated like a lady," but she would rather be unmarried than married to the wrong person.

Princess Bubble is not "anti-prince," Johnston explained.

"The truth of the matter and the point of Princess Bubble is that happiness is not a destination, it is the journey," she said.

www.PrincessBubble.com