This beloved Newbery Honor-winning story about a feisty heroine is sure to enchant readers new and old.
At her birth, Ella of Frell receives a foolish fairy's gift—the “gift” of obedience. Ella must obey any order, whether it's to hop on one foot for a day and a half, or to chop off her own head! But strong-willed Ella does not accept her fate...
Against a bold backdrop of princes, ogres, giants, wicked stepsisters, and fairy godmothers, Ella goes on a quest to break the curse forever.
A tween favorite for 25 years—now shared with today's young readers by moms, teachers, and other adults who remember the pleasure of discovering this fun fairy-tale retelling themselves!
What happens when the "gift" of obedience is the one thing that makes you a rebel?
- A Classic Fairy Tale Retelling: With a clever twist on the classic Cinderella story, this tale features wicked stepsisters, a fairy godmother, and a prince, but a heroine who is determined to save herself.
- A Strong and Feisty Heroine: Cursed with obedience, Ella of Frell is clever, defiant, and on a quest to reclaim her own free will from a foolish fairy’s "gift."
- Magic and Adventure: Journey through a kingdom filled with charming princes, dangerous ogres, friendly giants, and enchanting magic at every turn.
- A Sweet Fantasy Romance: A blossoming friendship with the handsome Prince Charmont gives Ella another powerful reason to fight her curse—and another secret to protect.
"A thoroughly enchanting novel that deepens and enriches the original tale."