Versions of the folktale we know as Cinderella have existed for centuries… but none are quite like this. The "once upon a time" is familiar: A girl is mistreated by her stepmother and stepsisters, dressed in tatters and forced to sleep in the cinders of the kitchen fire. There's a royal ball and Cinderella isn't invited, but her fairy godmother has a plan. Beyond that, the story diverges into a wonderful tale of transformation, in which friendship is more important than romance and Cinderella finds her true calling as "a liberator…someone who helps others figure out how to be free." Illustrated with bold, elegant silhouettes and written in a straightforward, easy-to-read tone, this modern take on Cinderella is an enchanting and encouraging read for girls and boys ages 6 and up.