Ribbon no Kishi is one of the earliest anime, made in 1967. It's from the period when Japanese animation hadn't yet gained its distinctive characteristics. It feels more like American cartoons of the period than modern Japanese anime. However, it preserves its innocence. The plot is cute. Princess Sapphire was born with a girl’s body and a boy's mind (whatever it is). She is the “prince” of Silverland. There’s an iron law in Silverland that only males can inherit the throne. Being the only child of the royal family, her gender is kept secret from the public to guarantee royal succession. Some cunning palace officers, especiallythe main antagonist, Duke Duralumon strives to reveal the truth in order to rule Silverland.

But the poor princess’ problem doesn’t end there. She was born with a boy's mind due to a mischief of an angel called Tink. The angel is sent back to make her feel and behave feminine again. Tink always accompanies her.

This is a children's cartoon. It has the charming simplicity of characters, music, and art. Nevertheless, today's children wouldn't be satisfied with it. Its stereotypical characters with predictable actions may bore but if you're tired of convoluted and ridiculous plotlines, you should give it a try.