This is the story of Cinderella, retold in one of the most unique ways I have seen so far. I think if you are a strong, willful Princess who likes to take control of her life and isn’t afraid to get her hands dirty you will really enjoy this story! Myself, I couldn’t identify with Ella quite as well as in some other adaptions of the tale, but it was an enjoyable read nonetheless.

Just Ella, by Margaret Peterson Haddix, finds our heroine at the Palace after the legendary slipper scene. She is trying to adjust to Palace life and the traditions and protocol that accompany it, but can’t seem to fit in. Being told off for lighting her own fireplace is just the start. She struggles with her tutors and ladies in waiting, but manages to make a couple of real friends. Meanwhile a rumour is being spread about pumpkins and fairy godmothers, while the royal family tries to cover up her past by claiming she is a foreign Princess. Ella reveals to us the true tale of how she made it to the ball, without any magic but a bit of luck and her own determination. The story takes an interesting turn when Prince Charming, and the Ball itself turn out to be.. not quite what they seem.

Its a light little read for lovers of fairytales retold, and the hardcover edition is beautiful with elegant designs at the top of each page. Just Ella is about making your own ‘happy ever afters’ and how sometimes they turn out a little different than we expected.