Ella Enchanted

by Gail Carson Levine
Ella Enchanted cover
Good Books rating 4.38
Fantasy, Young Adult (YA)
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  • ID: 7836
  • Added: 2025-12-17
  • Updated: 2026-02-15
  • ISBN: 9780590646086
  • Published: 1997-01-01
  • Reviews: 4

Ella Enchanted is a unique and enchanting retelling of the Cinderella story, set in a world where magic is both a blessing and a curse. The novel follows Ella, a young girl who is cursed by a fairy's gift to obey any order given to her, no matter how harmful or ridiculous. This curse complicates her life as she grows up, making her vulnerable to manipulation and forcing her to find creative ways to navigate her circumstances./n/nThe story is not just about Ella's struggle with her curse but also about her journey of self-discovery and empowerment. As she grows, she learns to use her wit and intelligence to outsmart those who would take advantage of her. The novel is filled with humor, adventure, and a touch of romance, making it a delightful read for all ages. It's a tale of resilience and the power of self-belief, wrapped in a magical and engaging narrative.

Reviews
Tarvolon · 2025-09-28
fun 4.00

This is a whole lot of fun, with a creative premise and an endearing central character. The story is loved for its humor and the central character's strength.

This reviewer found Ella Enchanted to be a delightful and fun read, thanks to its creative premise and the endearing central character. They particularly appreciate the humor and the central character's strength, which makes the story so enjoyable. The book's unique take on the classic fairy tale adds a fresh and engaging perspective, making it a standout read. They loved the central character's resilience and the way she navigates her curse with wit and determination.

Quick quotes

    This is a whole lot of fun, with a creative premise and an endearing central character.

    I loved it as an endearing central character who is so much more than her curse.

    The story is loved for its humor and the central character's strength.

Sis and Chrys · 2021-10-28
excellent 4.50

The characters have depth and believable qualities, and the writing is fantastic. The storyline is engaging and catches the reader off guard at times.

This reviewer was impressed with the depth and believability of the characters in this book, as well as the fantastic writing. They found the storyline to be engaging and noted that there were moments where it caught them off guard, adding to the overall enjoyment of the read. The reviewer appreciated the unique take on the classic fairy tale and the way it preserves the spirit of the original while adding new elements. They loved the characters and the overall message of the story, making it a standout in the genre.

Quick quotes

    The characters have depth and believable qualities, and the writing is fantastic!

    There were even moments where the storyline caught me off guard.

    The unique take on the classic fairy tale is refreshing and engaging.

Nerds Like Me · 2019-02-04
nostalgic 4.50

Ella Enchanted has long been a favorite, discovered in high school and read multiple times. It's a nostalgic read that continues to hold up.

This reviewer has a deep affection for Ella Enchanted, having first discovered it in high school and revisited it many times since. They find it to be a nostalgic read that never fails to charm. The book's enduring appeal lies in its creative premise and endearing central character, who is much more than just her curse. It's a story that has stood the test of time for them, making it a beloved favorite.

Quick quotes

    Ella Enchanted has long been one of my favourite books.

    I discovered it in high school and read it again and again, and it held up every time.

    It's a nostalgic read for me.

The Guardian · 2015-06-09
brilliant 4.50

The characters are well-loved, especially brave Ella, who won't be pushed around by anyone. The story is great because it has a strong message and engaging plot.

The reviewer was particularly impressed with the characters in Ella Enchanted, especially the protagonist, Ella, who is portrayed as brave and determined. They appreciated the strong message behind the story and found the plot engaging. The reviewer also noted that the book's themes of resilience and self-belief are particularly compelling, making it a memorable read. The humor and charm of the story were also highlighted as standout features.

Quick quotes

    I loved the characters, especially brave Ella who won't be pushed around by anybody.

    Thought this was a great story because it has a strong message and engaging plot.

    The themes of resilience and self-belief are particularly compelling.

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