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: 2025-12-18
  • ISBN: 9780590646086
  • Published: 1997-01-01
  • Reviews: 4

Ella Enchanted is a unique twist on the classic Cinderella story, where the protagonist, Ella, is cursed to obey any order given to her. This curse makes her life difficult, especially as she navigates the complexities of growing up and dealing with the expectations of others. The novel explores themes of self-discovery, resilience, and the power of love and friendship. /n/n As Ella tries to break the curse, she embarks on a journey that tests her courage and determination. Along the way, she meets a variety of characters who help her understand the true meaning of happiness and the importance of staying true to oneself. The story is a heartwarming tale of a young girl's struggle to overcome adversity and find her own voice.

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.

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.

Heartful of Books · 2015-06-07
inspiring 4.50

The message behind Ella Enchanted is powerful, and Ella deals with her struggles in the best way possible. The story is loved for its optimistic and charming nature.

This reviewer was deeply moved by the message behind Ella Enchanted, finding it both powerful and inspiring. They admire how Ella deals with her struggles with courage and determination, making her a relatable and admirable character. The story's optimistic and charming nature resonates with them, making it a beloved read. They appreciate the book's ability to convey important themes in a way that is both engaging and thought-provoking.

Quick quotes

    Overall, I loved the message behind Ella Enchanted.

    To be cursed with obedience is tough, and Ella deals with her struggles in the best way possible.

    They're so optimistic and charming.

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