In a neat bit of role reversal, Cinderella becomes Cinderfella, the ugly sisters are lazy big brothers, and the prince is a junior Karate champion called Kayleigh. Other than that, the action sticks closely to the story we know and love: put-upon Cinderfella finds his invitation to Kayleigh’s party and sneaks there disguised in a pair of his brothers’ cool sunglasses.
Kayleigh and he have a great time dancing until he has to dash home when the clock chimes (8), dropping the glasses in the process. Kayleigh finds him of course and they dance happily into the sunset. It’s very entertaining with a real energy and freshness. Children will feel the unfairness of Cinderfella’s situation and want to talk about that, while the illustrations are full of amusing details.
Reviewed by Andrea Reece Andrea Reece has spent almost her entire working life in children’s books, first as publisher, latterly as consultant, project manager and critic. More reviews by Andrea Reece
About Cinderfella
To all the brothers at Number 12. You're invited to Kayleigh's party. Dress fancy. Come fancy. Dance!
To all the brothers at Number 12. You're invited to Kayleigh's party. Dress fancy. Come fancy. Dance!
Once upon a time, there lived Cinderfella - a little boy, forever bossed around by his two older brothers, Gus and Gareth. Turn up the TV! Shine our scooters! the brothers cry. Finish our homework!
But on the day of our story, Kayleigh, the town's kick-fastic karate champion, is having a party, and Cinderfella is determined to dream big, dress fancy and DANCE. He'll just need a little help along the way from his fairy dog-mother, Ruff - woof! A feel-good twist on the classic fairytale, brought to life with fresh vision and huge humour by Matt Hunt.
Malachy Doyle has written over 120 books, from picture books to teenage novels. His books have won the Nestle Smarties Prize, the Tir na n-Og Award and the English Association Award.
Malachy spent twenty-five years in Wales, before returning to Ireland, where he lives on a tiny island with his wife Liz and collie dog Treacle.
