American Library Association Notable Books for Children (USA)
Winner
1998
Newbery Medal (USA)
Nominee/Honoree
1997
School Library Journal Best Books of the Year (USA)
Winner
2000
Young Reader Medal (USA)
Winner
2000
Iowa Children's Choice Award (USA)
Nominee/Honoree
Description/Notes
A superb, cleverly plotted retelling of the Cinderella story. (Best Books for Young Teen Readers)
How can a fairy's blessing be such a curse? At her birth, Ella of Frell was the unfortunate recipient of a foolish fairy's gift-the "gift" of obedience. Ella must obey any order given to her, whether it's hopping on one foot for a day and a half, or chopping off her own head! But strong-willed Ella does not tamely 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-once and for all.