Ella Enchanted

Spunky, stubborn, and very clever, this new Cinderella spends a lifetime trying to outwit the curse of a fairy's unwelcome gift of obedience. In a kingdom populated with ogres, giants, princes, and fairies, Ella begins a fruitless quest to have the curse lifted, only to discover that she has that power within herself.

"An extrodinary plot device, an assortment of wonderfully drawn characters, and a richly detailed fairy tale setting add up to an outstanding debut by talented newcomer Levine. She has taken the basic elements of the Cinderella story, placed it in a wholly satisfying new context, and deepened our appreciation of the original tale."