I have read many fairy-tale retellings, particularly of Cinderella, as she seems to be a favorite of people, but this one was truly original.

The story begins somewhat familiarly with our well-known fairy-tale, though there are a few small differences (she has 3 step-sisters, for example). However, it takes off in a very different direction when Cinderella, left at home to clean while her step-sisters and step-mother go to the first of three balls, slips and falls down the stairs... and dies! So, instead of being visited by her fairy godmother, she is visited by the Fairy of Death.

The story continues in a fun, though somewhat gruesome manner. But what I enjoyed was that, instead of being horrific and scary, the story was actually comedic and oddly heart-warming. The illustrations, provided by Freya Hartas, were wonderful and truly added to the story. I also enjoyed the way the story was told in verse. It is one that really seems meant to share with others as you are reading it - it would be a perfect book for a story-telling hour at a library.

So, my fingers are crossed that the author continues this series of "fairy tales gone bad" with more "rotten" tales. I am confident that, after you read this story, you will join me in that hope and be waiting as well.