From Publishers Weekly
Of this retelling of the Cinderella tale, set on the Caribbean, PW said, "The lyrical cadences of the text spattered with French and Creole words combine with the sensuous paintings to bring the tropics to life." Ages 5-10. Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information, Inc.


From School Library Journal
Kindergarten-Grade 3-A Caribbean Cinderella story, told from the godmother's point of view and brought to life by Pinkney's distinctive scratchboard illustrations. Based on West Indian versions of the story, the narrative is full of French Creole words and phrases. It tells of a poor washerwoman who is left a magic wand by her mother and discovers its power to help her beloved goddaughter. A fruit a pain (breadfruit) is transformed into the coach; six agoutis (a kind of rodent) become the horses; and Cinderella's slippers are bright pink with roses embroidered on them. Pinkney's art perfectly conveys the lush beauty and atmosphere of the island setting, featuring vibrant peaches, lavenders, aquas, and greens against the background of the sea. Frames of native greenery, shells, exotic blossoms, and small creatures are interwoven around most of the text, integrating it with the story's scenes to excellent effect. The result is an outstanding Cinderella variant for any collection.Judith Constantinides, East Baton Rouge Parish Main Library, LACopyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.


From Booklist
Ages 4^-8. There are many variations of the Cinderella story, and this version, set on the island of Martinique, is particularly vibrant, both in its melodious language and its spirited art. Collaborators San Souci and Pinkney, whose previous books include Sukey and the Mermaid (1992), have based their story on the French Creole tale, "Cendrillon." San Souci explains in an author's note that he has expanded the story and told it from the point of view of the godmother, a washerwoman who watches out for the lovely Cendrillon after her mother dies and her father remarries. The story follows the traditional lines, but always includes its own piquant touches. Breadfruit and lizards are turned into a coach and horses; and when the ugly stepdaughter tries on the slipper, the godmother calls out, "If you cut off those big toes, it would be a perfect fit!" Pinkney's artwork, executed in his signature style, is softened here by pinks, greens, and blues evoking the warm breezes of the islands. Flowers border some of the pictures and swirls of color add texture to the backgrounds. Even the pace of the story seems slowed by the setting. Perhaps that's why Pinkney uses every opportunity to infuse his pictures with action, whether it's Cendrillon being pulled out of the party by her godmother or sweeping across a dance floor when she finally dances with her bridegroom. A vital rendition of an old favorite. Ilene Cooper


Book Description
You may think you know this story I am going to tell you, but you have not heard it for true. I was there. So I will tell you the truth of it. Here. Now.


Card catalog description
A Creole variant of the familiar Cinderella tale set in the Caribbean and narrated by the godmother who helps Cendrillon find true love.

FROM THE PUBLISHER

You may think you know this story I am going to tell you, but you have not heard it for true. I was there. So I will tell you the truth of it. Here. Now.

FROM THE CRITICS

Publishers Weekly