Ella Enchanted: A Story of Magic and Inspiration

Ella Enchanted by Gail Carson Levine was one of my childhood favorite novels. Years later, it still remains one of my favorites!

The story follows Ella of Frell, who is a fifteen-year-old girl living with her father after the untimely death of her mother.

Soon after Ella was born, a fairy had visited her and supposedly given her a gift: the gift of obedience. But Ella’s mother immediately realized that despite the fairy’s words of reassurance, it was actually a curse. This baby girl would never have a mind of her own. She would never know what it is to decide for herself. Instead, she would be forced to follow the directions and perhaps dangerous commands of others.

However, bold Ella decides to venture into the wide world of magic, fear, (and of course true love!) to attempt to break the curse and finally get the happily ever after she’s always wanted.

Published in 1997 by Gail Carson Levine, this magical retelling of Cinderella won a Newberry Honor award and has delighted readers for over two decades!

I would recommend this book to readers of all ages. I read this book at a super young age and adored it. For readers who love fantasy, romance, magic, fairy tale retellings, or just novels to keep them hooked, this is the perfect choice.

The strong-willed Ella inspired me the first time I read it. Ella showed me that I could do more than I ever thought I could. Years later when I’m looking for inspiration through books, I often pick this one up!

The timeless tale of Cinderella is one that is retold over and over again. I’ve read multiple retellings of the tale, but this is one that has stuck with me the most.

Content warning-

mildly frightening scenes, mild romance