Ella Enchanted by Gail Carson Levine

9/10

Ella is given a blessing at birth by a very stupid fairy: She gets the gift of obedience! but the blessing turns into a horror for Ella who literally has to do what anyone and everyone tells her, from sweeping the floor to giving up a precious necklace! She has to battle with ogres and wicked stepsisters, make friends and loose them, and even deny she loves her Prince Char to save his life and his kingdom. The story overthrows the stereotypes of the original Cinderella when Ella breaks the curse -- not the prince -- saving not only herself, but Prince Char as well. And Ella rejects his proposal of marriage, at least until she decides herself to propose to him! And the curse is only broken because she's said 'No!' rather than 'Yes!'.

Ella Enchanted is an enchanting re-telling of the Cinderella fairy tale. It has been written for modern youngsters and features easily relatable and energetic characters, magic, romance, humour and expertly-timed twists. An enthralling read and perfectly suited for ages 9-15.

This exquisite book will be read and re-read many times; a book that will always be remembered fondly. If you ever wondered, while watching Cinderella, why she allowed herself to be treated so badly by her step-mother and step-sisters, then the answer will be found here.

About the author
Gail Carson Levine grew up in New York City and has been writing all her life. Her first book for children, Ella Enchanted, was a 1998 Newbery Honor Book. Other books include Ever, Fairest, Dave at Night, an ALA Notable Book and Best Book for Young Adults; The Wish, The Fairy's Return, The Two Princesses of Bamarre, and the six Princess Tales books. She is also the author of the nonfiction book Writing Magic: Creating Stories That Fly and the picture book Betsy Who Cried Wolf, illustrated by Scott Nash.