Ella Enchanted by Gail Carson Levine

In this incredible debut novel comes the richly entertaining story of Ella of Frell, who at birth was given the gift of obedience by a fairy. Ella soon realizes that this gift is little better than a curse, for how can she truly be herself if at anytime anyone can order her to hop on one foot, or cut off her hand, or betray her kingdom'and she'll have to obey? Against a bold tapestry of princes, ogres, giants, wicked stepsisters, and fairy godmothers, Ella's quest to break the curse once and for all and discover who she really is is as sharply funny as Catherine, Called Birdy and as richly poignant as Beauty, and has all the marks of a classic in the making. [via B&N]

I know many of you have already seen the movie. I know I was a big fan of the movie with Anne Hathaway... and that cute guy that played Prince Charmont. But do not let that deter you from reading this gem of a story. The movie only gives you a glimpse (and a small one at that) as to what is really between the covers of Ella Enchanted.

Although geared for younger readers, I was taken by this un-traditional retelling of Cinderella, and can definitely say that it can be enjoyed by older readers as well. I loved the fantasy elements which were clever and sometimes even downright funny. Ella is a great heroine - she is witty, strong-willed, determined and resourceful.

But what I truly enjoyed about this story is how women in general are portrayed. In your average fairytale you normally find your princess who is in some sort of peril and in need of a prince who rides in at the nick of time and saves the day. That is not the case here. All women are portrayed as strong, independent, opinionated - no matter if it was the sweet Ella, the deliciously evil stepsisters, Lucinda the fairy with her creative "gifts", or even Mandy, Ella's cook/fairy godmother.

All in all, this was a very enjoyable story and one that can be enjoyed whether big or small, young or old. This is a fantastic retelling of a wonderful fairytale and one that I highly recommend.