She is also a fiercely independent character, going against convention by turning down the handsome, charming and loved Gaston and seeking her own life.
And now, more than two decades later, I get to experience my favourite movie again, this time with a few minor, but important, additions to the storyline that bring it into the modern age.
Belle's still a book nerd, but she is also an inventor and teaches youngsters to read. What's more, there is an openly gay character who has a crush on Gaston.
Emma Watson plays my favourite princess and, while it seems a strange thing to say of someone younger than me, I count her as one of my role models.
She's a humanitarian, promotes sustainable fashion, believes in gender equality, and - best of all - loves to read.
Even though one of them is a Disney character, Belle and Emma are both strong, admirable role models for girls and women today, teaching us to be ourselves and stand up for what we believe in.
