- a fairy who gave a newborn girl the gift of obedience meant it as a gift, but it is a curse in reality
- difficult parts: an unkind father, a spiteful schoolmate, forced obedience, kidnapped by ogres, jealous stepmother
- fun parts: 3 dear friendships, speaking multiple fantasy languages (gnomish, elfish, ogrese), adventures on a journey, dancing with the prince
- convo: she punches a girl once but is punished for it; mentions fairies, spells, unicorn hair, other fantastical elements; a dear relative dies, alcoholic drinks mentioned, kisses after engagement, a few other romance-related moments (heart racing, mentions falling in love, etc.)
- language: x1 idiot, x2 wench (as in, young girl)
Type: chapter book
Ages: 9-14
Author: Gail Carson Levine
You never know what a gift it is to be able to make your own decisions! Comedy is infused throughout the story, breaking up the “groan” scenes as the reader feels Ella’s pains of perfect obedience. At her 5th birthday party, Ella is told to eat her cake. She immediately obeys and is in tears before she can finish the whole cake. Later, a mean girl figures out the curse and keeps forbidding her to eat for a few days. Ella finds herself in all sorts of predicaments like these.
For those who love Cinderella, this is a loose spin-off of that story! You’ll find Ella secretly attending balls and being forced to be a servant in her own house, but the book can definitely stand on its own merit, too. Her journey is full of adventures, and there is, of course, a sweet and happy ever after. 🙂