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The Persian Cinderella
"A luminescent interpretation. Meticulously researched illustrations faithfully depict the ornate beauty of an ancient land" (Kirkus Reviews). In this jewel-like version of a classic story, popular folklorist Shirley Climo tells the tale of Settareh, the Persian Cinderella. Magic enables Settareh to outsmart two jealous stepsisters and win the heart of a prince. But where most Cinderella stories end, poor Sattareh's troubles are only beginning! The unexpected plot twists will enchant readers as they rediscover the familiar tale in the lush setting of long-ago Persia. Shirley Climo's authentic details bring the story to life, and Robert Florczak's stunning paintings echo the vibrant colors and motifs of an ancient land.
32 pages, Paperback
First published April 27, 1999
18 people are currently reading
1191 people want to read
About the author
Shirley Climo
25 books38 followersShirley Climo was born in Cleveland, Ohio in 1928. She attended DePauw University until her mother died unexpectedly in 1949. She dropped out of college and took up her mother's work writing scripts for the weekly WGAR-Radio children's program Fairytale Theatre. During her lifetime, she wrote 24 books including The Korean Cinderella; Magic and Mischief: Tales from Cornwall; A Treasury of Princesses: Princess Tales from Around the World; A Treasury of Mermaids: Mermaid Tales from Around the World; and Someone Saw a Spider: Spider Facts and Folktales. She died on August 25, 2012 at the age of 83.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 144 reviews
October 20, 2010
OMG!! I can't believe I found this book!
Okay, so I am Persian and I read this book at a fairytale summer camp and the teacher said she was gonna red it to us an I was like "oh I'm Persian! I'm Persian" and she had me say all the names like Setarre (this was the "Cinderella" and her name means Star). I remember how after we read it, all the other kids had me translate stuff like how do u say hi (an the answer to that answer is Salam by the way)
*sigh* good days good days!
Okay, so I am Persian and I read this book at a fairytale summer camp and the teacher said she was gonna red it to us an I was like "oh I'm Persian! I'm Persian" and she had me say all the names like Setarre (this was the "Cinderella" and her name means Star). I remember how after we read it, all the other kids had me translate stuff like how do u say hi (an the answer to that answer is Salam by the way)
*sigh* good days good days!
June 21, 2019
Motherless Settareh, so named because of the star-shaped birthmark on her cheek ("Settareh" meaning "star" in Persian), grows up in the women's quarters of her father's house, alternately ignored or harassed by her stepmother, stepsisters, aunts, and female cousins. Given a gold coin by her father, in order to buy new clothes for Prince Mehrdad's upcoming No Ruz (New Year) celebration, Settareh instead gives most of her holiday money to a beggar, using what little is left to buy an cracked old bottle. Her kinswomen are convinced that, contrary to her father's instruction, she has not chosen wisely. But the pari - a magical fairy - residing in her bottle proves differently, producing gorgeous clothing that allows Settareh to attend the No Ruz celebration after all...
As mentioned in my review of Shirley Climo's The Korean Cinderella , another of her four Cinderella retellings (see also: The Egyptian Cinderella and The Irish Cinderlad ), I find the titles used for these books, including The Persian Cinderella, rather problematic. This tale, after all, is no more "the Persian Cinderella" than Cinderella is "the French Settareh," and while I understand the need for marketing, and for reader appeal (what better way to draw in fairytale lovers young and old, than to describe this as a "Cinderella" story?), I wish that a culturally specific name had been used, with any parallel to other traditions confined either to the description, or to a subtitle. Something after the fashion of Petrosinella: A Neopolitan Rapunzel , which happens to be my favorite variant of the "Rapunzel" tale-type.
That said, I did find the actual story here, taken from that classic collection, Tales from the Thousand and One Nights, where it is known as The Anklet, very engaging. I also appreciated that, this time around, Climo actually named her textual source material! The cultural details - Settareh lives in the women's quarters; Prince Mehrdad is unable to search for the mysterious anklet-owner, because he cannot visit women in their homes - offer a fascinating glimpse of another place and time. The illustrations by Robert Florczak, which a friend has astutely compared to the work of Maxfield Parrish, are appealing. All in all, despite my critique of the title, this is a book I would recommend to young fairytale lovers, and to readers interested in international variants of the "persecuted heroine" tale-type.
As mentioned in my review of Shirley Climo's The Korean Cinderella , another of her four Cinderella retellings (see also: The Egyptian Cinderella and The Irish Cinderlad ), I find the titles used for these books, including The Persian Cinderella, rather problematic. This tale, after all, is no more "the Persian Cinderella" than Cinderella is "the French Settareh," and while I understand the need for marketing, and for reader appeal (what better way to draw in fairytale lovers young and old, than to describe this as a "Cinderella" story?), I wish that a culturally specific name had been used, with any parallel to other traditions confined either to the description, or to a subtitle. Something after the fashion of Petrosinella: A Neopolitan Rapunzel , which happens to be my favorite variant of the "Rapunzel" tale-type.
That said, I did find the actual story here, taken from that classic collection, Tales from the Thousand and One Nights, where it is known as The Anklet, very engaging. I also appreciated that, this time around, Climo actually named her textual source material! The cultural details - Settareh lives in the women's quarters; Prince Mehrdad is unable to search for the mysterious anklet-owner, because he cannot visit women in their homes - offer a fascinating glimpse of another place and time. The illustrations by Robert Florczak, which a friend has astutely compared to the work of Maxfield Parrish, are appealing. All in all, despite my critique of the title, this is a book I would recommend to young fairytale lovers, and to readers interested in international variants of the "persecuted heroine" tale-type.
January 6, 2011
I recently read this author’s “Cinderella” books from Egypt and Korea, and I read them because they’re illustrated by Ruth Heller. But I read (I think thanks to Goodreads’ friend Chandra) that the illustrations in this version are even better so I decided to give this book a try. Even though I haven’t been in a fairy tale mood I did enjoy the other two books, and enjoyed the variations on the Cinderella story and the notes in the back that show its presence in various cultures.
The illustrations in this book are wonderful! They’re luminous and colorful and fit the period and story well, something the artist took care to do. There is a great artist’s note at the end where the author’s note is.
I also really like this particular version of the Cinderella story. I love that the girl’s name means star, for the birthmark she has that’s that shape: Settareh, a name which remains common today in the region.
The author’s note at the end, which I was looking forward to reading, having read them in the other two books, was informative and fascinating. This version was taken from a retelling of one of the tales from The Arabian Nights/1001 Arabian Nights/Naomi Lewis's Stories from Arabian Nights, ], in particular a story titled “The Anklet.” It uses elements that are unique to Persian mythology or that have origins in the region. The art is based on authentic ancient Persia. I do appreciate this author’s respect for the various cultures from which she finds and adapts these stories. And it’s so interesting to read stories from the many different cultures that have the “Cinderella” story in some form.
The illustrations in this book are wonderful! They’re luminous and colorful and fit the period and story well, something the artist took care to do. There is a great artist’s note at the end where the author’s note is.
I also really like this particular version of the Cinderella story. I love that the girl’s name means star, for the birthmark she has that’s that shape: Settareh, a name which remains common today in the region.
The author’s note at the end, which I was looking forward to reading, having read them in the other two books, was informative and fascinating. This version was taken from a retelling of one of the tales from The Arabian Nights/1001 Arabian Nights/Naomi Lewis's Stories from Arabian Nights, ], in particular a story titled “The Anklet.” It uses elements that are unique to Persian mythology or that have origins in the region. The art is based on authentic ancient Persia. I do appreciate this author’s respect for the various cultures from which she finds and adapts these stories. And it’s so interesting to read stories from the many different cultures that have the “Cinderella” story in some form.
January 26, 2016
a light retelling of a fairy tale. With some motifs atypical of Cinderella tales. though familiar if you know a lot of fairy tales
Good illustrations.
Good illustrations.
December 29, 2014
While recognizable as a Cinderella retelling, I really liked a lot of the different aspects that are not usually seen in Cinderella stories. The blue jug/pari and the diamond anklet(instead of a glass shoe), etc. Not mentioning the setting, the clothing, and the customs, which led to a nice twist on the traditional "ball". I thought Mehrdad's decision to marry Settareh was a sudden one, but this was off-set by the fact that it always is. Additionally, we get to see that Mehrdad really loves Settareh before they get married and that was much appreciated.
I'm excited to read Climo's other Cinderella retellings!
I'm excited to read Climo's other Cinderella retellings!
January 6, 2018
This was a new Cinderella retelling for me. I like how it stayed true to Persian culture. The artwork was lovely. I was worried it would have a sad ending for a short time, but was pleasantly surprised by how it turned out. The little blue jug reminded me of Aladdin's lamp.
February 22, 2018
My school librarians helped me locate this book amongst the folktale and fairytale section in our school library. This story is one of hundreds of stories from the volume of "The Arabian Nights." The protagonist in the story, Setterah, which means "star," has a star-shaped birthmark on her cheek for which she is teased by her stepsisters. However, it is by her birthmark that the prince recognizes that she is his "heaven-sent" bride. There are many elements of Persian culture infused in this story from the use of Persian words in the text to detailed descriptions of the marketplace and certain cultural traditions. The women in the story live in the "womens part" of the house and Setterah's beauty is attributed to her dark eyes, long, shiny black hair, her delicate nature, slender ankles and tiny feet. This part of the text makes me wonder if these are the types of attributes in a woman that are still considered beautiful in Persian culture today.
This story also differs from the Cinderella story that we are familiar with in the U.S. in that it involves a magical wish granting pot (instead of a fairy godmother) and instead of a glass slipper, it's a diamond anklet that is left behind after the prince's New Years party. The book also contains colorful illustrations that go along with the text. This book would be appropriate for students in 4th -6th grade.
This story also differs from the Cinderella story that we are familiar with in the U.S. in that it involves a magical wish granting pot (instead of a fairy godmother) and instead of a glass slipper, it's a diamond anklet that is left behind after the prince's New Years party. The book also contains colorful illustrations that go along with the text. This book would be appropriate for students in 4th -6th grade.
April 15, 2019
Name: The Persian Cinderella
Genre: Fairy Tale/Folk Lore
Version: Iranian / Persian culture
Cinderella: Settarch
Magical element/"fairy godmother": A pari (fairy) in a little blue jug
Glass Slipper: A diamond anklet
The ball: 'No Ruz' festival at the royal palace
Message: The value of kindness, compassion and hope.
Recently, I have begun to read all the Cinderella stories that I can find. It's interesting to learn how each of these variations presence the various cultures of their origins in regard to parenting, attributes in a woman considered beautiful & virtuous in different cultures, cultural celebrations, beliefs, marriage and love.
Genre: Fairy Tale/Folk Lore
Version: Iranian / Persian culture
Cinderella: Settarch
Magical element/"fairy godmother": A pari (fairy) in a little blue jug
Glass Slipper: A diamond anklet
The ball: 'No Ruz' festival at the royal palace
Message: The value of kindness, compassion and hope.
Recently, I have begun to read all the Cinderella stories that I can find. It's interesting to learn how each of these variations presence the various cultures of their origins in regard to parenting, attributes in a woman considered beautiful & virtuous in different cultures, cultural celebrations, beliefs, marriage and love.
March 22, 2012
The book is about a Persian Cinderella who also lives with evils stepsisters and an evil stepmother. The Persian princess is named Settareh and her name means star because she has a scar on her cheek that looks like a star. Settareh is invited to go to the Princes ball and her father comes and gives her some money to buy some new clothes. Settareh gets easily distracted and spends all her money and does not buy any new clothes. However Settareh did buy this blue jug and somehow it is magical and grants her every wish that she asks for. The jug dresses her up for the ball, but she is not able to stay during the whole party and she then runs back home and loses her anklet. The anklet is founded by the kingdom and the prince demands he is to marry the woman who fits this anklet. This book has some similarity to the English written Cinderella instead of losing the shoe she loses her anklet. The story is a very good book for multi-cultural literature, it shows that there can be different forms of a Cinderella story.
October 29, 2017
A truly amazing version of Cinderella. It all starts out with a girl named Sattereh who lives in a big house with many women. Sattereh was the sweetest out of all the women, but the most mistreated. When out in the village looking for something to wear to the prince's ball, Sattereh finds an ornate ceramic pot that she decided was too good to pass up. She used her money to buy the pot instead of something to wear to the ball. To her surprise, the pot grants wishes. On the night of the ball the pot grants her a beautiful garment to wear with diamond anklets. When it was time for her to go home, she was in such a rush that she lost an anklet. The prince ended up finding it and searched far and wide for the owner. When he found Sattereh, he ended up marrying her and they lived happily ever after.
I personally love this version. It is so engulfed in culture and beauty, I read it a few times. The illustrations were colorful and really captured the beauty of Persian women and their culture.
I personally love this version. It is so engulfed in culture and beauty, I read it a few times. The illustrations were colorful and really captured the beauty of Persian women and their culture.
January 23, 2013
Author: Shirley Climo
Reading Level: 5th Grade
Settareh is a young woman who lives with her stepmother, 2 stepsisters, her father, three aunts and four female cousins. Settareh is ignored by everyone and is not given much to eat and has little clothes to wear. Her stepsisters envy her beauty, and make fun of the star she has in her cheek. Settareh is given money to buy clothes. She spends it on food, a blue jar and gives some away to an old woman. This blue jar is magical, it grants wishes. Settareh goes to a party and meets a boy, but doesn't know he is the prince. Settareh meets her prince again and is ready to marry her prince when her stepsisters cast a spell on her. Settareh disappears. The prince rescues Settareh without knowing and marry. The stepsisters heart bursts. Settareh and the prince live happily. This cinderella story was very different and interesting to me. I liked the fact that it was different, according to the culture.
Reading Level: 5th Grade
Settareh is a young woman who lives with her stepmother, 2 stepsisters, her father, three aunts and four female cousins. Settareh is ignored by everyone and is not given much to eat and has little clothes to wear. Her stepsisters envy her beauty, and make fun of the star she has in her cheek. Settareh is given money to buy clothes. She spends it on food, a blue jar and gives some away to an old woman. This blue jar is magical, it grants wishes. Settareh goes to a party and meets a boy, but doesn't know he is the prince. Settareh meets her prince again and is ready to marry her prince when her stepsisters cast a spell on her. Settareh disappears. The prince rescues Settareh without knowing and marry. The stepsisters heart bursts. Settareh and the prince live happily. This cinderella story was very different and interesting to me. I liked the fact that it was different, according to the culture.
October 9, 2016
This book is a spin off of the original Cinderella story with a twist. It's about a girl named Settareh a Persian Cinderella who also had a step mother and two evil stepsisters that didn't want her to go with them to the Royal New Year's celebration. Settareh stumbles up on an old blue magical mug that allows he to attend the New Years Party but when her evil stepsisters find out that Settareh and the prince hit it off, they steal her magical mug and put a spell on Settareh turning her into a dove and leaving the prince heart broken for many months. I would recommend this book to grades K-4th.
October 13, 2013
The Persian Cinderella by Shirley Climo (2011)
Genre: Traditional literature
Format: Book
Plot summary: A retelling of the traditional Persian tale in which Settareh, neglected and abused by her stepmother and stepsisters, finds her life transformed with the help of a little blue jug.
Considerations or precautions for readers advisory (strong language, sex, death, religious overtones, violence, etc.): No special considerations
Review citation (if available):
Section source used to find the material: NoveList Grab and go lists: Cinderella Variants for grades 3-5.
Recommended age: Grades 1-4.
Genre: Traditional literature
Format: Book
Plot summary: A retelling of the traditional Persian tale in which Settareh, neglected and abused by her stepmother and stepsisters, finds her life transformed with the help of a little blue jug.
Considerations or precautions for readers advisory (strong language, sex, death, religious overtones, violence, etc.): No special considerations
Review citation (if available):
Section source used to find the material: NoveList Grab and go lists: Cinderella Variants for grades 3-5.
Recommended age: Grades 1-4.
January 11, 2015
3.5 stars
A welcome variant of the classic fairytale, based on a tale in the "Arabian Nights". The fairy godmother is a pari, a fairy. The evil stepsisters try to kill Settareh. It is an anklet instead of a slipper. The Prince could have been a whole lot more pro-active, but at least he proved his love for Settareh. The dad might as well have been non-existent for all the import he has to the story.
A welcome variant of the classic fairytale, based on a tale in the "Arabian Nights". The fairy godmother is a pari, a fairy. The evil stepsisters try to kill Settareh. It is an anklet instead of a slipper. The Prince could have been a whole lot more pro-active, but at least he proved his love for Settareh. The dad might as well have been non-existent for all the import he has to the story.
February 14, 2011
I liked the way this version used a blue jug to help Settareh get her prince. Her stepsisters thought that the blue jug she bought was bad luck. It turned out that the jug granted whatever wish she wanted and ultimately led her to her prince. I would definitely use this book in a pre-k to 5 grade class.
January 9, 2017
A picture book retelling of "The Ankle" which is adapted from Stories from the Arabian Nights. Instead of a fairy godmother, there is a pari -- a fairy -- that is unique to Persian mythology. Florczak's lush illustrations capture the ancient Persian setting. A beautiful addition to Climo's multicultural Cinderella series.
June 14, 2017
I read this to my nieces when I was babysitting them and trying to get them to go to sleep. What beautiful art.
December 24, 2018
This Cinderella has no redeeming qualities so why should she win the Prince's heart.
The first thing I thought about when I finished it is what are the young girls getting from this book - spend your money on useless things and then be shy and coy and wait for things to get better!
Her father treats her like he does the others, giving them all money to buy cloth for the Prince's party, it's not like she was left without
I didn't really like this adaptation much.
The 2 stars are for the beautiful illustrations and the culture.
The first thing I thought about when I finished it is what are the young girls getting from this book - spend your money on useless things and then be shy and coy and wait for things to get better!
Her father treats her like he does the others, giving them all money to buy cloth for the Prince's party, it's not like she was left without
I didn't really like this adaptation much.
The 2 stars are for the beautiful illustrations and the culture.
April 17, 2021
One of my best friends gave me this as a present because it was an important part of her childhood, and I cannot be happier. This book is so beautiful. I love the names, and I loved that I got to learn more about another culture. The illustrations are gorgeous and the story is so well done. This version of Cinderella is definitely a new favorite!!
September 25, 2012
Summary
This story is about a young maiden name Settareh, which means Star in Persian, who lost her mother when she was born. Settareh lived with her stepmother, two stepsisters, and many close female relatives in the women part of the house. Her father worked in the man’s world meaning he barely came to see them.
No one paid attention to Settareh, in fact they could care less that they would give her scrap of food. Her stepsisters made fun of her, because she had a birthmark on her right check shaped like a star. Even with the cruelty of the family each day Settareh became more beautiful.
One day her father made a visit and gave each woman a gold coin so they were able to buy a gown for the New Year celebration called No Ruz. Settareh cover her head and went to find a gown but on her way there she smelled delicious food and bought something to eat.
Then she saw a poor lady asking for money and she caringly gave her some. She had enough to buy a sash, but she saw a blue old pot that amazed Settareh and with all she had she bought the pot. Her stepsisters made fun of her because she spend her money on an old pot.
However, when they left Settareh asked for flower to be in the pot, and magically it appeared. She realized there was a fairy in the pot. Kindly she asked for more things she needed, but fearing that her family mind find out she kept it hidden. In the day of No Ruz, Settareh asked for a gown and a beautiful gown appeared and she got dressed.
When she got dressed she magically appears in front of the building were No Ruz was being celebrated. So she quietly marched in there and enjoyed herself, but she kept her face hidden from her sisters.
At the end of the party she ran home fearing bad consequences may happen,if her family find her gone. She dropped an ankle bracelet. A servant of the king found the ankle bracelet and the queen took it and went around Persia to figure out who could fit the bracelet. Settareh was able to fit it and the queen took her to be his son’s wife.
She was happy to see that the prince was the one staring at her at the party. Settareh stepsisters had found out that the pot was a magical pot and wished their sister would disappear. When the pot fell 6 hairpins pop out, her sisters went to do her hair and when the last pin was put in Settareh hair, she fell and turned into a dove.
The prince was very sad to know that his soon to be princess was missing. The dove came by the prince and the prince found six pins stuck in the bird, when he took out the last one his soon to be princess appeared. In the end Settareh and her prince got married and the two stepsisters heart exploded.
Response
I give this book a rating of four, because it did show an originality of a Cinderella story. There were some familiar things but others were very interesting and made me learn about the culture. Also, it spread awareness of other cultures, what we expect in the original Cinderella story was different from the Persian Cinderella. It does teach and moralize, and tells the truth of each characters (TMY, 2010, p.8-9).
However, I felt that the quality in the end was over exaggerated, for example, when the two stepsisters found out Settareh came back their heart exploded, meaning they died. It does have good integrity. There are not any flashbacks, just a straightforward story, but I could say it had lots and lots of texts in almost every page where each picture was shown.
I don’t really recommend a young child to read this by themselves, which may become difficult that the child may be overwhelmed, but read with or from an adult may help the child understand better and enjoy the story(TMY,2010,p.8-9).
Classroom Connection
This book will work great for a classroom lesson about cultures, which in most cases it would be great for social studies time. Not only does this book have a different way of telling a Cinderella story but it teaches the cultures of Persia in a respectful way, which may help students to accept other students with different cultures. I recommend before reading this story that the students team as a group or individually do a research of the culture of Persia, and bring at least 2 to 3 facts about Persia, and what they have learned. Also, teaching students about folklore and that fantasy stories are not real. Just because this may be difficult for kindergarten through 2nd to do some research by themselves, I would recommend that the teacher would show them how to research some facts online and at the library.
Text Complexity
This book has a 760 Lexile, with Grade level J. It also has AD, which means it is recommended that an adult read the book to a child or with a child, because it may be difficult to read independently. The grade level that may interest a child is K-2 if read to them. The independent grade level is toward the end of fourth grade.
This story is about a young maiden name Settareh, which means Star in Persian, who lost her mother when she was born. Settareh lived with her stepmother, two stepsisters, and many close female relatives in the women part of the house. Her father worked in the man’s world meaning he barely came to see them.
No one paid attention to Settareh, in fact they could care less that they would give her scrap of food. Her stepsisters made fun of her, because she had a birthmark on her right check shaped like a star. Even with the cruelty of the family each day Settareh became more beautiful.
One day her father made a visit and gave each woman a gold coin so they were able to buy a gown for the New Year celebration called No Ruz. Settareh cover her head and went to find a gown but on her way there she smelled delicious food and bought something to eat.
Then she saw a poor lady asking for money and she caringly gave her some. She had enough to buy a sash, but she saw a blue old pot that amazed Settareh and with all she had she bought the pot. Her stepsisters made fun of her because she spend her money on an old pot.
However, when they left Settareh asked for flower to be in the pot, and magically it appeared. She realized there was a fairy in the pot. Kindly she asked for more things she needed, but fearing that her family mind find out she kept it hidden. In the day of No Ruz, Settareh asked for a gown and a beautiful gown appeared and she got dressed.
When she got dressed she magically appears in front of the building were No Ruz was being celebrated. So she quietly marched in there and enjoyed herself, but she kept her face hidden from her sisters.
At the end of the party she ran home fearing bad consequences may happen,if her family find her gone. She dropped an ankle bracelet. A servant of the king found the ankle bracelet and the queen took it and went around Persia to figure out who could fit the bracelet. Settareh was able to fit it and the queen took her to be his son’s wife.
She was happy to see that the prince was the one staring at her at the party. Settareh stepsisters had found out that the pot was a magical pot and wished their sister would disappear. When the pot fell 6 hairpins pop out, her sisters went to do her hair and when the last pin was put in Settareh hair, she fell and turned into a dove.
The prince was very sad to know that his soon to be princess was missing. The dove came by the prince and the prince found six pins stuck in the bird, when he took out the last one his soon to be princess appeared. In the end Settareh and her prince got married and the two stepsisters heart exploded.
Response
I give this book a rating of four, because it did show an originality of a Cinderella story. There were some familiar things but others were very interesting and made me learn about the culture. Also, it spread awareness of other cultures, what we expect in the original Cinderella story was different from the Persian Cinderella. It does teach and moralize, and tells the truth of each characters (TMY, 2010, p.8-9).
However, I felt that the quality in the end was over exaggerated, for example, when the two stepsisters found out Settareh came back their heart exploded, meaning they died. It does have good integrity. There are not any flashbacks, just a straightforward story, but I could say it had lots and lots of texts in almost every page where each picture was shown.
I don’t really recommend a young child to read this by themselves, which may become difficult that the child may be overwhelmed, but read with or from an adult may help the child understand better and enjoy the story(TMY,2010,p.8-9).
Classroom Connection
This book will work great for a classroom lesson about cultures, which in most cases it would be great for social studies time. Not only does this book have a different way of telling a Cinderella story but it teaches the cultures of Persia in a respectful way, which may help students to accept other students with different cultures. I recommend before reading this story that the students team as a group or individually do a research of the culture of Persia, and bring at least 2 to 3 facts about Persia, and what they have learned. Also, teaching students about folklore and that fantasy stories are not real. Just because this may be difficult for kindergarten through 2nd to do some research by themselves, I would recommend that the teacher would show them how to research some facts online and at the library.
Text Complexity
This book has a 760 Lexile, with Grade level J. It also has AD, which means it is recommended that an adult read the book to a child or with a child, because it may be difficult to read independently. The grade level that may interest a child is K-2 if read to them. The independent grade level is toward the end of fourth grade.
September 28, 2015
Plot summary and personal response:
The story follows Settareh, a beautiful young Persian woman, whose mother died when she was an infant and whose father is "busy in the world of men". Her time is spent amongst her stepmother, step-sisters, aunts, and female cousins, who are unkind to her. Settareh is hungry and lonely until she purchases a small cracked jug which, she is surprised to learn contains a pari (a fairy of Persian legend). She wishes for food and warm clothes and a friend (a dove) to keep her company. Following the typical Cinderella plot-line, when her family members go to the 'No Ruz' celebration without her, Settareh wishes for a gown so that she, too, can attend the festivities. Settareh catches the eye of a mysterious man (Prince Mehrdad) and all of the other people at the festival and has a very nice time, but leaves quickly so that her stepmother will not find her missing. In typical Cinderella-fashion, Settareh loses a diamond anklet, which is found and used in the attempt to locate the mysterious beauty. After an extensive search, Prince Mehrdad finds Settareh and it seems as if they will have life-long happiness. However, Settareh's ugly step-sisters make an evil wish that just may ruin Settareh and Prince Mehrdad's future.
Literary Merit:
The book offers several important life-lessons; complex themes such as kindness, compassion, hope, resiliency, and bullying are represented. The story is not simply a rewrite of the traditional Cinderella fairy tale in a Persian setting; rather, details specific to time and place are used, showing innovation of style, voice, and plot in this a fractured tale. The author's use of interesting pieces of information from the Persian culture lend an artistic, multicultural aspect to the read.
Genre Considerations:
'The Persian Cinderella' is a cultural variant of the fictional Cinderella fairy tale, set in 15th century Persia. Its characters are proper representations of Persian culture of the time. Persian models were even used for the water-based markers, colored pencil, body color and ink on brownline paper illustrations. Though the author carefully expressed (at the end of the book) that the story and illustrations were carefully researched and sourced from the Persian community in Los Altos, California (including many details that are specific to Persian culture, customs, setting, and clothing, lending authenticity to the story), the reader should note that some from the Persian culture have expressed that errors and stereotypes exist in the illustration; illustrations are not entirely representative of the culture.
Reader Response and Classroom Connections:
This story would work well for a number of different unit themes. A social studies lesson, discussing ancient Persia as well as Persian customs would be a good partner to this book. Class "team-building" lessons with kindness, compassion, and bullying themes would also partner well with this story. A Venn diagram could be made, comparing the original 'Cinderella' story to this fractured version.
The story follows Settareh, a beautiful young Persian woman, whose mother died when she was an infant and whose father is "busy in the world of men". Her time is spent amongst her stepmother, step-sisters, aunts, and female cousins, who are unkind to her. Settareh is hungry and lonely until she purchases a small cracked jug which, she is surprised to learn contains a pari (a fairy of Persian legend). She wishes for food and warm clothes and a friend (a dove) to keep her company. Following the typical Cinderella plot-line, when her family members go to the 'No Ruz' celebration without her, Settareh wishes for a gown so that she, too, can attend the festivities. Settareh catches the eye of a mysterious man (Prince Mehrdad) and all of the other people at the festival and has a very nice time, but leaves quickly so that her stepmother will not find her missing. In typical Cinderella-fashion, Settareh loses a diamond anklet, which is found and used in the attempt to locate the mysterious beauty. After an extensive search, Prince Mehrdad finds Settareh and it seems as if they will have life-long happiness. However, Settareh's ugly step-sisters make an evil wish that just may ruin Settareh and Prince Mehrdad's future.
Literary Merit:
The book offers several important life-lessons; complex themes such as kindness, compassion, hope, resiliency, and bullying are represented. The story is not simply a rewrite of the traditional Cinderella fairy tale in a Persian setting; rather, details specific to time and place are used, showing innovation of style, voice, and plot in this a fractured tale. The author's use of interesting pieces of information from the Persian culture lend an artistic, multicultural aspect to the read.
Genre Considerations:
'The Persian Cinderella' is a cultural variant of the fictional Cinderella fairy tale, set in 15th century Persia. Its characters are proper representations of Persian culture of the time. Persian models were even used for the water-based markers, colored pencil, body color and ink on brownline paper illustrations. Though the author carefully expressed (at the end of the book) that the story and illustrations were carefully researched and sourced from the Persian community in Los Altos, California (including many details that are specific to Persian culture, customs, setting, and clothing, lending authenticity to the story), the reader should note that some from the Persian culture have expressed that errors and stereotypes exist in the illustration; illustrations are not entirely representative of the culture.
Reader Response and Classroom Connections:
This story would work well for a number of different unit themes. A social studies lesson, discussing ancient Persia as well as Persian customs would be a good partner to this book. Class "team-building" lessons with kindness, compassion, and bullying themes would also partner well with this story. A Venn diagram could be made, comparing the original 'Cinderella' story to this fractured version.
February 7, 2013
The Persian Cinderella tells the story of a lonely but beautiful maiden, Settareh. Settareh's mother passed away at her birth and Settareh now lives an almost neglected life with her stepmother, stepsisters, aunts, and cousins. Because of her beauty, Settareh is made an outcast amongst her family until one day while at the town bazzar she buys a little blue jug. This jug brings Settareh anything she wishes for, even a diamond-studded anklet. One evening when out in the town Settareh's anklet falls off her foot (much in the same way as Cinderella's glass slipper is lost). The prince is made known of the anklet and goes on a search for it's owner. Settareh's step-sisters each lay claim to the anklet, however, it fits neither sister. Finally, Settareh tries on the anklet and it fits like a glove. The king immediately falls in love with Settareh, and after a few mishaps before their wedding the two become married.
The Persian Cinderella is a wonderful telling of the Cinderella story. I truly appreciated how the author incorporated the Persian cultural throughout this story. The text is authentic and accurate and candidly depicts a Persian Cinderella.
If used with elementary or middle school students, I would strongly advise some pre-teaching be done regarding the Persian culture. There are several vocabulary words (i.e. arcade, bazzar, perfumed oils, No Ruz, pari) as well cultural context (i.e. "she seldom saw her father, for he was busy in the world of men," "Setterah's father honored the women's quarters with a visit," "The queen gave Settareh a mirror so that she might gaze at the prince's reflection without the embarrassment of facing him.") that is needed before the story can be fully understood. Utilizing this story with multiple age groups could potentially enlighten students to the Persian culture while allowing them to find similarities between this story and possibly the more similar French version of Cinderella.
The one qualm I have with this book is the title. I'm confused why this version is titled, "Persian Cinderella"? As we do not call the version I am familiar with "French Cinderella (or I guess French Setterah," why is there a need to so specifically identify this book's culture? I understand that marketing and audience appeal play into a book's title, however, it seems that this title sets itself apart by specifically naming the culture where the story takes place. I would have loved to see the title reflect Setterah's name, or the anklet--to make the title more reflective of the culture.
The Persian Cinderella is a wonderful telling of the Cinderella story. I truly appreciated how the author incorporated the Persian cultural throughout this story. The text is authentic and accurate and candidly depicts a Persian Cinderella.
If used with elementary or middle school students, I would strongly advise some pre-teaching be done regarding the Persian culture. There are several vocabulary words (i.e. arcade, bazzar, perfumed oils, No Ruz, pari) as well cultural context (i.e. "she seldom saw her father, for he was busy in the world of men," "Setterah's father honored the women's quarters with a visit," "The queen gave Settareh a mirror so that she might gaze at the prince's reflection without the embarrassment of facing him.") that is needed before the story can be fully understood. Utilizing this story with multiple age groups could potentially enlighten students to the Persian culture while allowing them to find similarities between this story and possibly the more similar French version of Cinderella.
The one qualm I have with this book is the title. I'm confused why this version is titled, "Persian Cinderella"? As we do not call the version I am familiar with "French Cinderella (or I guess French Setterah," why is there a need to so specifically identify this book's culture? I understand that marketing and audience appeal play into a book's title, however, it seems that this title sets itself apart by specifically naming the culture where the story takes place. I would have loved to see the title reflect Setterah's name, or the anklet--to make the title more reflective of the culture.
October 24, 2012
Summary:
The Persian Cinderella, is a wonderful book. It is a story about a girl in Persia who does have a father, however, she lives on the female side of the house with many relatives. This is something they do in the middle east. Her name is Settareh, which means star because she has a star birthmark on her face. She is given money to get ready for a party with the prince; however, Settareh doesn’t buy fabric to look pretty like everyone else does. She buy’s food for someone who is hungary and then buys a blue jug that is not very practicle, yet very beautiful. She soon finds out that the blue jug contains a “pari” which I think is a bit of magic. When she makes a wish, her wish comes true. Settareh does get to go to the ball to see the prince and she looks so beautiful that her family doesn’t realize she is there. After the ball the prince wants to find Settareh, he sends his mother, because in their culture, this is the correct way to handle the situation. His mother finds Settareh and shows her a mirror that both Settareh and the prince can see each other in. In their culture the men should not see or interact with young women unless they are going to be with them for the rest of their life. In this particular book it doesn’t end with the prince finding Cinderella as in the traditional story. Once the prince finds his future princess, her step sisters use magic to curse Settareh with hair pins and turn her into a bird. The bird comes to the prince and he takes the pins out of the bird’s feathers and Settareh returns so him. Now they can live happily ever after.
Response:
This book deserves a 5 star rating. This book has all of the qualities of children’s literature as outlined in Children’s Books in Children’s Hands. (TMY, 2010, p. 9):
-expands awareness
-an enjoyable read that doesn’t overtly teach of moralize
-tells the truth (shows what a culture that we may not be familar with it like)
-embodies quality
-has integrity
-shows originality
I found this book to be a great look into another culture.
Classroom Connection:
For class you could compare this to the traditional Cinderella and see how the students find it different. Or you could make up your own Cinderella that takes place now. Students are familar with step families they could talk about how that story my take place in their town. Who would be the prince? Where do they live?
Lexile/ 760
The Persian Cinderella, is a wonderful book. It is a story about a girl in Persia who does have a father, however, she lives on the female side of the house with many relatives. This is something they do in the middle east. Her name is Settareh, which means star because she has a star birthmark on her face. She is given money to get ready for a party with the prince; however, Settareh doesn’t buy fabric to look pretty like everyone else does. She buy’s food for someone who is hungary and then buys a blue jug that is not very practicle, yet very beautiful. She soon finds out that the blue jug contains a “pari” which I think is a bit of magic. When she makes a wish, her wish comes true. Settareh does get to go to the ball to see the prince and she looks so beautiful that her family doesn’t realize she is there. After the ball the prince wants to find Settareh, he sends his mother, because in their culture, this is the correct way to handle the situation. His mother finds Settareh and shows her a mirror that both Settareh and the prince can see each other in. In their culture the men should not see or interact with young women unless they are going to be with them for the rest of their life. In this particular book it doesn’t end with the prince finding Cinderella as in the traditional story. Once the prince finds his future princess, her step sisters use magic to curse Settareh with hair pins and turn her into a bird. The bird comes to the prince and he takes the pins out of the bird’s feathers and Settareh returns so him. Now they can live happily ever after.
Response:
This book deserves a 5 star rating. This book has all of the qualities of children’s literature as outlined in Children’s Books in Children’s Hands. (TMY, 2010, p. 9):
-expands awareness
-an enjoyable read that doesn’t overtly teach of moralize
-tells the truth (shows what a culture that we may not be familar with it like)
-embodies quality
-has integrity
-shows originality
I found this book to be a great look into another culture.
Classroom Connection:
For class you could compare this to the traditional Cinderella and see how the students find it different. Or you could make up your own Cinderella that takes place now. Students are familar with step families they could talk about how that story my take place in their town. Who would be the prince? Where do they live?
Lexile/ 760
October 10, 2015
This is a Cinderella tale about a maiden named Settareh which meant Star. She lived with her step-mother, two step-sisters, three aunts, and four female cousins after her mother died and rarely saw her dad as he was so busy. She had to wear her step-sisters old clothing and eat their leftovers. She grew more beautiful each and everyday which made her step-sisters very jealous. Her dad gives all his daughters a gold coin to buy clothes one day so they would have something nice to wear to the princes festival. Settareh goes off to look for clothes but was very hungry so she first buys some toasted almonds. She ends up getting a lot of silver coins in return and runs into a woman who asked her to space a coin. She does and then sees a small blue pot she wants to buy. She does not buy any clothes and her step-sisters scold her for this. They then tell her that she can't go to the ball because she would disgrace them.
She finds out that the pot is magical and grants her wishes such as food and a shawl. She then asked for a gown to wear to the festival and the pot granted her wish so she was able to attend the festival after all. Time flew by quickly and she had to race out of the festival to get home before her step-mother returned home. She raced home that she lost her anklet. The prince gets ahold of the anklet and finds out that it belongs to Settareh. After some tragic things happen among Settareh and her step-sisters, she and the king live happily ever after.
This book accurately displayed Persian culture, mostly displaying traditional clothing in pictures and descriptions of the clothing and symbolism throughout the book. I liked how the author and illustrator depicted the culture in this text in a way that was easy to understand and support the text. This is a great tale because it is similar and different to the traditional Cinderella with a cultural Persian twist that is accurate and detailed.
She finds out that the pot is magical and grants her wishes such as food and a shawl. She then asked for a gown to wear to the festival and the pot granted her wish so she was able to attend the festival after all. Time flew by quickly and she had to race out of the festival to get home before her step-mother returned home. She raced home that she lost her anklet. The prince gets ahold of the anklet and finds out that it belongs to Settareh. After some tragic things happen among Settareh and her step-sisters, she and the king live happily ever after.
This book accurately displayed Persian culture, mostly displaying traditional clothing in pictures and descriptions of the clothing and symbolism throughout the book. I liked how the author and illustrator depicted the culture in this text in a way that was easy to understand and support the text. This is a great tale because it is similar and different to the traditional Cinderella with a cultural Persian twist that is accurate and detailed.
September 30, 2013
Hey look, another Cinderella tale! NO WAY.
Okay, now that the sarcasm is out of the way. Shirley Climo seems to have made a study of Cinderella tales (she also authored one of my childhood favorites, The Egyptian Cinderella. The artwork by Mr. Florczak is delightful, you can really tell he did his homework and also had great models for the characters.
First off: Our heroine doesn't lose a shoe. She, Settareh, loses a diamond anklet. Also, her name comes from a birthmark in the shape of a star on her cheek. So she's already marked as different. Second, rather than spend her money on new clothes for the New Year festivities, she spends it mostly practically. She buys herself a little food (which she needs, as her stepmother and stepsister care nothing for her in the women's quarters), gives most of the rest to a woman who she realizes needs food more than Settareh needs new clothes, and the last little bit on a small jug that ends up being magical. Props all around for showing the protagonist has the right priorities and luck.
Then, it gets better. PLOT TWIST. On the eve of her wedding, her stepsisters (who have broken the jug after realizing there was a pari within it) trap her into bird form. The prince, rather than have anyone else, basically shuts himself up and goes into total Juliet mode, which works out perfectly since Settareh in turtledove form is able to visit him anyway. When he finally has her confidence, he pets the bird and feels the hairpins the stepsisters used. Freeing Settareh, they set out for their happily ever after.
Very well told, and will be recommended. There's also an afterword with a little more about the tale.
Okay, now that the sarcasm is out of the way. Shirley Climo seems to have made a study of Cinderella tales (she also authored one of my childhood favorites, The Egyptian Cinderella. The artwork by Mr. Florczak is delightful, you can really tell he did his homework and also had great models for the characters.
First off: Our heroine doesn't lose a shoe. She, Settareh, loses a diamond anklet. Also, her name comes from a birthmark in the shape of a star on her cheek. So she's already marked as different. Second, rather than spend her money on new clothes for the New Year festivities, she spends it mostly practically. She buys herself a little food (which she needs, as her stepmother and stepsister care nothing for her in the women's quarters), gives most of the rest to a woman who she realizes needs food more than Settareh needs new clothes, and the last little bit on a small jug that ends up being magical. Props all around for showing the protagonist has the right priorities and luck.
Then, it gets better. PLOT TWIST. On the eve of her wedding, her stepsisters (who have broken the jug after realizing there was a pari within it) trap her into bird form. The prince, rather than have anyone else, basically shuts himself up and goes into total Juliet mode, which works out perfectly since Settareh in turtledove form is able to visit him anyway. When he finally has her confidence, he pets the bird and feels the hairpins the stepsisters used. Freeing Settareh, they set out for their happily ever after.
Very well told, and will be recommended. There's also an afterword with a little more about the tale.
October 15, 2012
A young maiden by the name of Settareh purchases an enchanted little blue jug that grants her an unlimited amount of wishes. One of Settareh wishes leads her into an engagement with the prince of the land, but soon her faith is ruined when the little blue jug falls into the hands of her two evil stepsisters. Robert Florczak brings in the essence of Persia and Iran with his beautiful drawings of the setting and the characters in the story.
This book reminds me a lot like the Cinderella movie that was created by Walt Disney. Although, there are many differences that can be spotted between the book and the movie. For instance, there is a complete difference between the two cultures and the way the animals are talked about in the story. In Walt Disney’s version of Cinderella, the mice are cared for by Cinderella and are companions of Cinderella. In Shirley Climo’s version, Settareh is the animal in the story that is cared for by her handsome prince. The message that the story brings is to always choose your faith wisely for that it may become enchanted or hopelessness.
I would have the student watch the Walt Disney movie of Cinderella first and then read “The Persian Cinderella” book afterward. The student would have to create a Venn diagram chart to compare and contrast between the two stories. The students would then create their own short story version of Cinderella in their own culture. I would also have the students research the culture of Iran and have them describe the differences between the United States and Iran.
Lexile: 760
Guided Reading Level: J
Grade Level: k-2
Independent Reading: end of fourth grade
Appropriate Read Aloud: kindergarten and up
This book reminds me a lot like the Cinderella movie that was created by Walt Disney. Although, there are many differences that can be spotted between the book and the movie. For instance, there is a complete difference between the two cultures and the way the animals are talked about in the story. In Walt Disney’s version of Cinderella, the mice are cared for by Cinderella and are companions of Cinderella. In Shirley Climo’s version, Settareh is the animal in the story that is cared for by her handsome prince. The message that the story brings is to always choose your faith wisely for that it may become enchanted or hopelessness.
I would have the student watch the Walt Disney movie of Cinderella first and then read “The Persian Cinderella” book afterward. The student would have to create a Venn diagram chart to compare and contrast between the two stories. The students would then create their own short story version of Cinderella in their own culture. I would also have the students research the culture of Iran and have them describe the differences between the United States and Iran.
Lexile: 760
Guided Reading Level: J
Grade Level: k-2
Independent Reading: end of fourth grade
Appropriate Read Aloud: kindergarten and up
June 19, 2018
The story is about a girl named star who lived in the house a month many sisters cousins and aunts and one day the prince was to throw a ball and her father gave everyone a large coin to buy new cloth to make beautiful clothing for the ball when she had gone to the market she didn't buy cloth she gave an old lady change she bought a little pot and food and she had returned with no cloth while she was talking to the pot and it actually granted her a wish so she continued to use it and on the day of the ball she wished for beautiful clothing which act granted at the end of the ball she rushed home knowing that her stepmother would be mad if she arrived home and she wasn't there but on the way she lost her anklet a boy had found it and taking it to the prince and the prince demanded to find the owner of it after checking everybody they finally reached our and she comes with the matching anklet and they set off to get married the sisters group jealous they wished upon the pot but it just shattered so the usual shattered pieces for hair pins for their sister and on the wedding day they were pushing them in her hair and it turned her into a dove so Star had gone missing and the prince sent a search to find her but no one could find her since then a dub had come to visit the prince every so often and finally gained his trust in the loud him to pet it and when it while he was petting it he found hair pins in it so he thought that was weird and he took them out and turned into star so they finally got married in the stepsisters heart bursted because of the anger and then they lived happily ever after
March 18, 2013
Summary: This book is about a girl named Star. Star has a star-shaped birth mark on her cheek. He mother died after childbirth and Star now lives in the Women's quarters with her numerous aunts, female-cousins, stepmother, and two stepsisters. Star is largely ignored by everyone and gets only hand-me-downs and leftovers. One year Stars father gives her some money to buy some clothes for a New Years Party at the Palace; Star spends her money instead on some food to eat, an old beggar woman, and a pretty cracked blue pot. Star's sisters make fun of her, but Star discovers that her little blue pot is magical and gives her whatever she asks of it. Star asks for clothes to attend the party in and is given beautiful clothes and diamond anklets. On her way home from the party she looses one of the anklets. The anklet makes its way into the Prince's hands whose mother goes searching for the girl who owns it. Star is found and becomes engaged to the Prince. Her sisters hind out about the blue pot and ask that Star disappear and break the pot. Amongst the pieces of the broken pot are six hairpins. They pinup Star's hair and she turns into a bird. The prince becomes friends with the little bird and finds the hair pins and pulls them out. Star is transformed back into herself and happily they get married.
I thought that this book was cutie. I like how the pot gets broken and how there is a happily ever after.
Picture Book
There is nothing controversial in this book that I could see.
I thought that this book was cutie. I like how the pot gets broken and how there is a happily ever after.
Picture Book
There is nothing controversial in this book that I could see.
March 13, 2018
target audience - 3-12 years
Folktale motif orphan summary – Based on the Cinderella folktale this story combines the folktale from the arabian nights anklet story into the Cinderella format. This time instead of a glass slipper Star, our orphan, loses an anklet after the big party and is discovered as the only one it would later fit. Also, instead of a fairy godmother, there is a Pari or fairy in a jar. Pari's are a Persian fairy that can be good or bad. This one is very good, and helps our persian orphan to gain the attention of the hansom prince and earn her freedom when he removes the spell her evil stepsisters place on her. Of course the stepsisters die from the stress of their malice and our Star enjoys a happy ever after with her loving prince.
strengths/weaknesses - I did learn a new word, Pari. The illustrations were based on traditional ancient persian styles. The story is weak as are all Cinderella's, but still a favorite of little girls. This is basically a persian flavored cover of the traditional story.
personal critique - I don't really need another Cinderella story, but if I had a persian community, I might consider buying this one. Supporting children with familiar and validating themes are considered good choices. I think the title is oversell, but I guess it gets the message out there.
illustrations - Strong colors and ink choices, with photographic like faces and cartoon like images. I feel as if I am watching a Disney princess movie. Character costumes are realistic, as is the architecture.
Folktale motif orphan summary – Based on the Cinderella folktale this story combines the folktale from the arabian nights anklet story into the Cinderella format. This time instead of a glass slipper Star, our orphan, loses an anklet after the big party and is discovered as the only one it would later fit. Also, instead of a fairy godmother, there is a Pari or fairy in a jar. Pari's are a Persian fairy that can be good or bad. This one is very good, and helps our persian orphan to gain the attention of the hansom prince and earn her freedom when he removes the spell her evil stepsisters place on her. Of course the stepsisters die from the stress of their malice and our Star enjoys a happy ever after with her loving prince.
strengths/weaknesses - I did learn a new word, Pari. The illustrations were based on traditional ancient persian styles. The story is weak as are all Cinderella's, but still a favorite of little girls. This is basically a persian flavored cover of the traditional story.
personal critique - I don't really need another Cinderella story, but if I had a persian community, I might consider buying this one. Supporting children with familiar and validating themes are considered good choices. I think the title is oversell, but I guess it gets the message out there.
illustrations - Strong colors and ink choices, with photographic like faces and cartoon like images. I feel as if I am watching a Disney princess movie. Character costumes are realistic, as is the architecture.
October 20, 2011
The Persian Cinderella is a traditional Cinderella story wound into the Persian culture. Settareh's mother dies when she is young, and she is forced to grow up in a palace, without much contact from her father. Her aunts and cousins don't care for her, and always make fun of her. When Settareh is given money to buy material to make a dress to attend No Ruz (New Year), she spends her money on a pot, which turns out to have a pari inside which grants her wishes. Settareh goes to No Ruz and drops one of her ankle bracelets. The prince finally finds Settareh and they are to be married. Her cousins turn her into a dove using her pari, but her prince turns her back, and they marry.
This fairy tale book demonstrates many of the typically found aspects of traditional literature. The hero is identified early on as Settareh, and her goal is to find happiness after her mother dies. The rivals in the story are her cousins and aunts, who try to prevent her from happiness. The helpers appear in the forms of a pari, which grants her any wish she desires.
In addition to the typical roles, there were several instances of contrast present in the story. The hero versus villain is the most prevalent, with Settareh being kind, and beautiful, and her cousins being mean and ugly.
I read this book after reading The Korean Cinderella, which is also by Shirley Climo. She does a very nice job of integrating culture and customs into these interesting stories!
This fairy tale book demonstrates many of the typically found aspects of traditional literature. The hero is identified early on as Settareh, and her goal is to find happiness after her mother dies. The rivals in the story are her cousins and aunts, who try to prevent her from happiness. The helpers appear in the forms of a pari, which grants her any wish she desires.
In addition to the typical roles, there were several instances of contrast present in the story. The hero versus villain is the most prevalent, with Settareh being kind, and beautiful, and her cousins being mean and ugly.
I read this book after reading The Korean Cinderella, which is also by Shirley Climo. She does a very nice job of integrating culture and customs into these interesting stories!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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