Ella Enchanted (original 1997; edition 2004)

Summary: Ella Enchanted is kind of a play off on Cinderella. She has an evil godmother that cursed her with the "gift of obedience". She has to do everything when she is told. She has two step-sisters and one takes advantage of Ella very quickly once she noticed her inablility to disobey. The prince falls in love with Ella, but Ella cannot marry him because she knows that the curse will put him in great danger. She convinces him that she has run away with another man. The prince orders Ella to marry him. Ella refuses, thus breaking the curse. She then takes the prince's hand in marriage because she wants to not because he ordered her to.

Personal Reaction: I really enjoyed this book, I really like books that are far fetched and impossible. It really feeds my imagination!
I enjoyed all of the characters and all of their aspects.

Classroom Extension: Ella Enchanted could be used to teach the "Be careful what you wish for" saying. Sometimes you think it would be easier to just have something that makes you obey all the time. It would help you to stay out of trouble and to always do what you're told. However, it can also be a curse, forcing you to follow through with things that maybe are not the right thing. ( )

I listened to the audiobook, which was read by a grown woman doing a startling impression of a young girl. It really freaked me out at first, but then I got used to it and decided that she was actually quite good.
I enjoyed this sweet, spirited retelling of the Cinderella story. Great reccomendation for anyone who enjoys princess stories that don't follow the usual forumla. ( )

One of the best books I have ever had the privilege of reading; the movie does not compare. A singular cast of characters and plot that make Cinderella's story seem more plausible. Fun, fascinating read in a visionary fantasy world that keeps you guessing and turning the pages and reading it over and over again. ( )

Unendingly clever. Delightful retelling. Too bad about the movie (although Anne Hathaway was adorable).


***
For the record, I don't rate books at all unless they are unequivocally five stars–you know, books I would stand up for, possibly get involved in light fisticuffs in their defense. Books like The Outsiders and Chronicles of Narnia and A Wrinkle in Time. Otherwise, I just let my review (or lack thereof) speak for itself.

An interesting take on the Cinderella fairy tale which Levine gives a few twists. I'm sure many a girl has wondered why in the world the traditional Cinderella let her step-family treat her like dirt; I mean, does the girl have no spine? Levine's Ella has plenty of spine, but explains her lack of options by adding a fairy gift (more like curse) of obedience to the tale - Ella must do whatever anyone commands her to do. How Ella breaks the curse and wins the heart of the prince makes for an entertaining ride. This would pair perfectly with Princess Academy by Shannon Hale, another fantasy tale with a plucky heroine.

Listened to the Listening Library CD edition narrated by Eden Riegel. Previously read. ( )