Monday Review: Ella Enchanted by Gail Carson Levine

1.  Title, Author, and Cover

Ella Enchanted

By Gail Carson Levine

(This is the original cover I have from my old copy of this book.  I know it’s been updated since then, but, to me, this cover has always been perfect for the story.)

2.  Genre and Reading Level

Fairy Tale Retelling – Fantasy

Pre-teen and Teenagers (and older readers who don’t mind reading a good book written for these ages)

3.  My Summary

What if Cinderella was cursed at her birth?

Although many variations of Cinderella exist, all of the originals center on a good and obedient girl who serves those who are cruel to her.

Ella Enchanted is a retelling of Cinderella with an explanation for Cinderella’s obedience.  Soon after her birth, an air-headed fairy cursed Ella with obedience.  No matter what people tell her to do, she must obey them.

Her life isn’t too tough at first.  Her mother loves her.  Mandy, their cook, is bossy but clearly cares about her, and her grasping merchant father rarely interferes or even makes an appearance in her life.

Then her mother dies, and everything changes.  Her father sweeps in and sends her to boarding school and then expects her to marry for his own wealth and advancement, but he is actually the one who ends up marrying for money, bringing a brand new stepfamily into Ella’s life.  All are cruel and selfish.  Her younger stepsister, Olive, is mainly stupid, but the older girl, Hattie, is scheming and heartless.

The only comforts Ella has are loyal Mandy and her new friend, Prince Char.  Hattie is terribly jealous of this friendship, and the entire stepfamily tortures Ella once they discover her curse.

Ella takes it on herself to discover a cure for her curse no matter what obstacles block her way.

4.  My Opinion (With a rating)

Overall: 6 Stars

Sparkle is what shines brightest in this book.  The entire story is packed with adventure within the lush and colorful world of Frell, and Ella herself is a strong, spunky, and headstrong heroine.  Because of her curse, she develops into a resourceful and stubborn young woman with a clever sense of humor.  Her relationship with Char is especially charming, and the climax is a powerful testament to her strength and their love.

I would say there is also a decent amount of Steel that slowly builds in this book.  At first, it might seem a bit light, but, by the climax, the stakes are high, and Ella’s own determination is undeniable.  The story is narrated by Ella herself, and her humorous voice is a perfect background to her development from stubborn little girl to noble, brave, and sacrificing young woman.

Although the sacrifice Ella is willing to make at the end is beautiful, this book is not meant to be inspirational.  Therefore it is understandable that there is not really a Scriptural aspect to it.  Still, I think that this book could easily be read and enjoyed by Christian readers.

5.  Who would love this book?

Anyone who loves Cinderella, fantasy, adventure, fine young adult literature, or fairy tale retellings in general should certainly give this book a try!