Great Young Adult Read!

I read this book as a young adult and remember going back to it numerous times for a reread. From the moment I started reading it, it held my interest. It was also quite a popular choice amongst my group of friends.

It's a fun redux on a classic (Cinderella), but has great twists and a truly lovable protagonist amongst a fascinating cast of characters. As a non-romantic young person, I remember feeling like I could really identify with the main characters and, although the story was clearly fanstasy, that it was a fanstasy I could get on board with.

I would recommend this book for young girls who have a vivid imagination and love to lose themselves in books. It's also ideal for those who don't read much because it's a quick and easy read. The protagonist is a strong female character who stands up for what she believes in and deals with a great deal of adversity in her young life. The lessons/motifs definitely translate to modern day life.

Levine manages to craft a vivid picture of life a long time ago and yet translate the themes of love and struggle into the modern time. It's a story that will captivate children and adults alike and quickly becomes a bookshelf favorite.

If you've seen the movie, but haven't read the book, you might be confused -- the two are not at all alike. Please don't be dissuaded by the movie, the books is heads and tails better!!