Cinderella
There is a dance at the big house today! Cinderella is sad. Her sisters are at the dance... POUF! It is the Fairy Godmother. Does Cinderella go to the dance? Does she see the Prince?..
A Sparkling Slipper in a Level 1 Package
Pearson's Level 1 "Cinderella" by Kathryn Harper isn't your grandma's fairytale. Yes, the glass slipper still glistens, the pumpkin coach still transforms, and the magical fairy godmother still waves her wand. But this charming picture book offers a fresh, simplified adaptation perfect for the earliest readers.
With a mere 16 pages and a Lexile measure of 260L, this "Cinderella" is tailor-made for young children taking their first steps into the world of independent reading. The concise text, using basic grammar and vocabulary, unfolds the familiar story in a clear and engaging manner. Sentences are short and sweet, sprinkled with descriptive words like "sparkling" and "swirling" that spark young imaginations.
Kathryn Harper's illustrations bring the tale to life with vibrant colors and expressive characters. Cinderella's wide eyes and downturned smile radiate her sadness, while the fairy godmother's beaming face and twinkling wand exude magic. The illustrations, though simple in style, effectively capture the key moments of the story, helping young readers visualize the magical transformation and the grand ball.
While the core elements of the classic fairytale remain intact, Harper makes clever adjustments for her audience. The stepsisters' cruelty is toned down, the pressure to find a prince is replaced with the simple desire to attend the ball, and the happily-ever-after ending feels more organic, emphasizing the newfound friendship between Cinderella and the prince.
This Level 1 "Cinderella" offers several benefits for young learners. The repetitive elements, like the ticking clock and the rhyming stanzas, provide opportunities for memorization and practice with phonemic awareness. The predictable storyline builds confidence in reading skills, while the engaging illustrations foster a love for books and storytelling.
Highlights:
- Simple and concise text: Ideal for Level 1 readers, using basic vocabulary and grammar.
- Vivid illustrations: Capture the characters' emotions and key moments of the story.
- Adapted storyline: Toned down for younger readers while retaining the magic of the fairytale.
- Repetitive elements: Encourage memorization and build reading confidence.
- Fosters a love for reading: Makes early reading experiences enjoyable and engaging.
Minor quibbles:
- The simplified plot might feel incomplete for readers familiar with the classic fairytale.
- The smaller format might appeal more to individual reading than group story time.
Overall:
Pearson's Level 1 "Cinderella" by Kathryn Harper is a delightful adaptation of the timeless fairytale, perfectly sized for young readers taking their first steps into the world of independent reading. The simple text, vibrant illustrations, and engaging story provide a positive and confidence-building reading experience, making it an excellent choice for parents and teachers seeking engaging Level 1 material. So, slip on your glass slippers and join Cinderella on her magical journey, one enchanting page at a time.
Verdict: A charming and accessible retelling of "Cinderella" for Level 1 readers. With its simple text, vibrant illustrations, and engaging story, this book sparks a love for reading while building early reading skills. Highly recommended for young children and classrooms.
How can you read this book?
Click these simple buttons to read this book today.
Kathryn Harper, Author 
Crafting Worlds Through Words and Art
Meet Kathryn Harper, a talented author whose life story weaves seamlessly into her creative works. Her journey is a testament to the power of words, art, and personal growth.
From an early age, Kathryn discovered a deep love for writing, drawing, and the boundless world of creativity. These early passions served as the foundation for her future endeavors, but her books are inspired by much more than artistic expression.
Kathryn's childhood was marked by a unique challenge – selective mutism. This condition, which made verbal communication difficult, became both a struggle and a source of inspiration. Her journey through selective mutism, filled with breakthroughs and self-discovery, has deeply influenced her storytelling.
Born in the United Kingdom, Kathryn's early years included an adventurous chapter in Johannesburg, South Africa, from ages two to five. These formative experiences broadened her perspective and infused her spirit with a sense of wanderlust.
Today, Kathryn calls Wanaka, New Zealand, home, where she lives with her two wonderful children and her partner, Simon. Wanaka's breathtaking landscapes and vibrant community provide the perfect backdrop for her creative endeavors. Every step outside her door is an invitation to embark on a new adventure, an inspiration that resonates throughout her work.
Kathryn's books, brought to life through her love for words and art, invite readers into captivating worlds. They are a reflection of her personal journey, illustrating the power of perseverance and self-expression. Through her writing and illustrations, she encourages others to embrace their unique stories and find their own voices.
In Kathryn Harper, we discover an artist and author whose life experiences have enriched her storytelling, making her works a source of inspiration and empowerment for readers of all ages.
