"My gift is obedience. Ella will always be obedient," begins this tale, as the fairy Lucinda grants her gift to the new baby princess. Ella really can't say no. She can't say no to the wicked stepsisters who ask her for things she should NOT have to give up.

Drives me crazy, and kids love it. Can Ella grow beyond this gift? Will she be able to stand up for herself and what is right? This author does a fantastic job, making the reader feel the pain of this curse. This is a 1998 Newbery Honor winner.