ISBN: 055352528X Order from: Amazon.com Barnes & Noble.com
A charming retelling of a classic fairy tale, this narrative features a streamlined plot and world-building, suitable for younger audiences, a plucky and sympathetic heroine, and a modicum of moral instruction.
Reviewed by David on March 19, 2004
Genre: Fantasy (Juvenile, Fairy Tale, Coming of Age)
Synopsis: This is an unabridged recording of Ella Enchanted.
Ella is a fortunate girl growing up in a rich house. She has an indulgent and loving mother, and a protective nanny. Her only regret is her father is not home more often.
The spirited young girl needs the protection and love, for on her birth a fairy has gifted her with the virtue of obedience. The gift is absolute—Ella has to do what anybody orders her to do.
As life changes, Ella's happy and protected life comes to a painful end. In a new life, she has to keep her secret, for anybody from a school rival to a deadly ogre can force her to their will—with a single word.
Full Review: Ella's quest to rid her of her "gift" and to find a place, friendship and love in a harsh world make for pleasant and sometimes tense narrative.
While simple, the mostly mundane world with touches of magic make for a suitable setting for this adventure, and Ella's own determined, clever and kind character engages the reader's sympathy.
Overall: 6; Plot: 5; Characters: 6; Style: 6; World-building: 5.5; Originality: 6;
Copyright date 1997, Random House (Listening Library), 1998, Audio cassette, 4 cassettes
ISBN: 055352528X Order from: Amazon.com Barnes & Noble.com