Challenge Corner discussion

At birth, Ella is inadvertently cursed by an imprudent young fairy named Lucinda, who bestows on her the "gift" of obedience. Anything anyone tells her to do, Ella must obey. Another girl might have been cowed by this affliction, but not feisty Ella: "Instead of making me docile, Lucinda's curse made a rebel of me. Or perhaps I was that way naturally." When her beloved mother dies, leaving her in the care of a mostly absent and avaricious father, and later, a loathsome stepmother and two treacherous stepsisters, Ella's life and well-being seem to be in grave peril. But her intelligence and saucy nature keep her in good stead as she sets out on a quest for freedom and self-discovery as she tries to track down Lucinda to undo the curse, fending off ogres, befriending elves, and falling in love with a prince along the way. Yes, there is a pumpkin coach, a glass slipper, and a happily ever after, but this is the most remarkable, delightful, and profound version of Cinderella you'll ever read.

Gail Carson Levine's examination of traditional female roles in fairy tales takes some satisfying twists and deviations from the original. Ella is bound by obedience against her will, and takes matters in her own hands with ambition and verve. Her relationship with the prince is balanced and based on humor and mutual respect; in fact, it is she who ultimately rescues him. Ella Enchanted has won many well-deserved awards, including a Newbery Honor.

So I know we decided upon the 4th but I just can't stop myself so I'm gonna give it a go nonetheless. LOL.

Chapter 10 done. (view spoiler)[So you know how sometimes we can feel nothing but sorry for a particular character? That's what I feel for Ella. I mean, no one should have to go through something like that. >:O (hide spoiler)]

18 Chapters done. (view spoiler)[Okay, I'm like really upset for Ella right now. I can't even imagine the horror of having to obey every order, knowing fully well that it is going to kill you. I mean, that ogres scene? No wonder I'm glad she is part fairy! (hide spoiler)]

27 Chapters done. (view spoiler)[Aw, I feel sorry for the poor girl. I wonder how will she fight off with the curse (or gift, or whatever) and finally live with Char. I mean, the two belong together. Naturally! (hide spoiler)]

Finished. (view spoiler)[Alright, this was a really fun read. And i can't wait to read its prequel. I really enjoyed reading. I mean, the ending? WHOA! IT WAS GREAT! The way she broke the curse was a little unexpected but it was great. I loved it! (hide spoiler)]

Haha- all good! I'm terrible about keeping up with dates-- sorry for being late to the party here.

Chapters 1-7
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I really feel for Ella. I can't imagine having to obey every order someone gave me. I'm much too stubborn for that to be a good mix haha. With that said, I can't tell if Char is going to be a good guy or a bad guy... he seems alright, except for his comment about catching a centaur for Ella. On the other hand, he did save the kid when Ella couldn't disobey the orders, so... (hide spoiler)]

Chapters 8- 15
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Dude, Ella is a superhero. Taming the ogres using their own language is such a power move. (hide spoiler)]

Chapters 16- 21
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I agree with Ella and Char- I wouldn't like to be forced to love someone based on a spell. I'm trying to see how this spell could go awry, but can't so far... I'm excited that Ella finally has someone her own age that she can be herself around. (hide spoiler)]

Chapters 22- end
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This is such a cute ending! I'm glad the curse was lifted when Ella tried to save the prince from her curse. I do wish there was more about their wedding and about their life together. The story felt a little rushed at the end. All in all, still a wonderful retelling of Cinderella. (hide spoiler)]

Ritika wrote: "Finished. [spoilers removed]"

It has a prequel?? I have to check this out!