If the Shoe Fits: Voices From Cinderella

By Laura Whipple

Book Overview

If the Shoe Fits: Voices from Cinderella takes a fresh look at an old and favorite story. In thirty-three poems it brings to life not only the voices of well-loved characters, but also voices of characters not usually heard from -- including the glass slipper, without which the story would not have a happy ending. On the stage set by the story we hear each player tell the tale from their point of view, answering the questions that swirl around Cinderella: Is the ghost of Cinderella's father at peace in the afterlife? What has made Cinderella's stepmother so cruel? Can a rat be as happy as a human? How do the prince's mother and father feel about Cinderella for their son? Does the Magic One's Magic last forever? Do the glass slippers realize how important a role they play in the life of one girl? Is there a quiet someone, with a gentle purr, who is a secret accomplice? And, finally, what does Cinderella herself have to say to us about her own story? Through the rhythms of Laura Whipple's poetry and the sweeping colors of Laura Beingessner's artwork, Cinderella's story is spun anew for audiences of all ages to celebrate.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0689840705
• ISBN13: 9780689840708
• Release Date: June 2002
• Publisher: Margaret K. McElderry Books
• Length: 80 Pages
• Weight: 0.95 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.5" x 6.4" x 10.3"
• Age Range: 8 to 12 years
• Grade Range: Grades 3 to 7

Customer Reviews

Enchanting Retelling of Cinderella through Poetry

This book of poetry is, in a word, beautiful from start to finish. The illustrations are breathtaking, and have the look and texture of an oil-painting, which I really enjoy. The book takes you through the story of Cinderella by utilizing poetry as a way for each character to make their voice heard. In addition to odes to Cinderella and her fair Prince, there are also poems from the jealous and covetous evil step-mother, as well as a hauntingly sad poem from the ghost of Cinderella's father, who mourns the day he made the mistake of bringing her step-mother into their lives. Fairy-tale lovers and collectors will enjoy adding this beautiful book of poetry, dedicated to one of the most beloved fairy tales of all time, to their extensive collections. Others will enjoy it for the uniqueness and warmth it gives to the tale of "Cinderella".

If the Shoe Fits

I came across this book the other day on a book shelf; the cover was interesting so I picked it up. I was so impressed ! I love poetry. It brought to light aspects about the Cinderella saga that I only wondered about as a child. The prince's mother's reaction to this "Cinders-girl"; the sad ghost of Ella's father wandering about with no rest; the deep hurt and jealousy of the step mother; all was just so wonderful. The poetry and heart of L. Whipple really brought this story to life. I actually cried when I read it. The pictures were superb, I especially love the picture of the rat/coachman and his tale. The garden cat and his telepathic communication with "The Magic-she" (fairy godmother) was divinely esoteric. The rhythm flowed well and the thoughts were unique. I have to say that this book is a real enchantment. If you like poetry, if your children know the story of Cinderella but you would like to give them a bit of reading to ponder upon, get this book. It's a good adult read as well, for both men and women. This is a wonderful book for any library. Thanks Laura Whipple and artist Laura Beingessner for making the world a better place to live with your wonderful talents.

I love this book!

I love Laura Whipple's vibrant retelling of the Cinderella story. It's fresh, new and full of ryhthmic enchantment from the cat ("cat is master; cat is cat") to the glass slipper pining for its mate, to the wary rat who becomes a coachman ("where were my whiskers, a-twitching, a-tremble?") The book begs to be read aloud - even sung - alone or in a group. The ending, in which Cinderella addresses her audience, brought tears to my eyes. It told me, "This is not only Cinderella's story, it is yours." Laura Beingessner's accompanying illustrations are as full of magic as the text. All in all, this book is a winner.