Cendrillon
By Robert D. San Souci
The Story
A poor washerwoman on the island of Martinique uses her mother's magic wand to help her beloved goddaughter Cendrillon win the heart of a rich man's son.
Why It's Special
For families who love Cinderella but want to see her story told with new eyes, this is a chance to fall for the tale all over again.
- Big idea: Love given freely — by a godmother with nothing but her wits and her wand — can change everything.
- Vibes: Warm, romantic, richly Caribbean, touched with magic.
Perfect For Kids Who
- enjoy fairy tales told from a fresh angle
- love stories with magic and transformation
- respond well to rich, lyrical language and vivid settings
- are drawn to stories about devoted family bonds
Ask Your Little Reader
- Story & problem-solving: What do you think the washerwoman's magic wand let her do to help Cendrillon?
- Feelings & empathy: How do you think Cendrillon felt when her godmother noticed she was heartsick?
- Real-life connection: Who is someone in your life who takes care of you the way the godmother cares for Cendrillon?
- Imagination: If you had a magic wand like the godmother's, what would you use it for?
- Story & problem-solving: How is this Cinderella story the same as ones you've heard before, and how is it different?
