What if your fairy godmother arrived late, in support shoes and with arthritis , and thought candy apple red Porsches were pumpkins? Meet Cinder Ella, a rebel with a knack for getting tangled in tree branches and her camo pants. As if losing her free time for exploits wasn't enough, she now juggles wicked stepsisters who demand spam pizza and never-ending chores. The Prom King's bash is the year's hottest ticket, but Cinder Ella is stuck on stair-sitting duty until a scruffy fairy godmother swoops in with magical (and somewhat off-brand) solutions. With a wardrobe revamp and a racy ride, she's ready to face the tunes of destiny—but she'd rather enjoy the cool night and chat with David, a sidekick with charm and mischief. When the clock's magic ticks away, one shoe slip leaves the Prom King on a treasure hunt for his mystery dance partner. But when he finds Cinder Ella, she's got nothing but sass and a clear message: Just hand over the shoe, "Prince." Meanwhile, David's got her back, her heart, and a surprising plan for the sunset scene-stealer of a friendship they never saw coming. Crack up with every twist in this uproarious spin on a classic fairytale. Are you ready to dance to the offbeat rhythm and see what true adventure awaits? The Off-Beat Cinder Ella by Anne Murray is an entertaining, quirky and totally original re-telling of the Cinderella story. However, this Cinder Ella story is very clever and different with a unique powerful message and unexpected brilliant twist. Modern day Cinder Ella is fun, down to earth and independent.She rides horses bareback, shoots arrows and climbs trees. She wears colorful camo pants and funky earrings. Her bright fiery red hair fits her fiery personality perfectly. But, Cinder Ella is down on her luck, working for her stepmother and serving her stepsisters all day long. When Midsummer's Night arrives, the high school Prom King decides to throw a huge party. Cinder Ella has nothing to wear to the party and no money to buy anything either. But, when her arthritic eccentric fairy god mother arrives, she sets Cinder Ella up in an outfit that fits her own unique style. She then sends her off to the party in a trendy car. Of course everyone at the party is enthralled with this cool young woman who has just arrived at the party, including the Prom King himself - and someone else. Find out what happens next in this incredible one-of-a- kind exciting story. Author Anne Murray's unique writing style and creative storytelling ability brings new life to a story that has been loved and read over the years. With her clever use of language, fun narration and incredible idea for empowering girls to be themselves, she has written a special story that will entertain, intrigue and bring laughter and enjoyment to the reading experience for all girls ages 7 -12. The illustrations are amazing, artistic and as unique as the story itself. The use of color is eye-catching and very different - so striking! The Off-Beat Cinder Ella is a literary and artistic little masterpiece. I read it to my children and they loved it! My girls are 6, 8 and 13 and they all were so enthralled by this Cinder Ella because she is active, fun and silly and she doesn't follow the crowd. This story is very inspiring for girls which encourages them to be themselves, make their own positive choices according to their own likes and dislikes, and to be independent. Anne Murray is a wonderful writer and exciting storyteller who definitely thinks outside the box. Artisan Book Reviews highly recommends The Off-Beat Cinder Ella: who wants her shoe back...without the Prince (upside-down fairy tales) by Anne Murray to all girls for an adventurous, entertaining and self-empowering tale. Giada Rose, Artisan Book Review I read this charming book to my granddaughter who is almost 6 and she totally got it and loved it - she is smart. Many children that young will love it and understand it. The amazing illustrations will enchant all children, even up to 14 years old in my opinion because they are so unique, quirky and artsy. Let's not let our children grow up too fast and take away amazing artistic illustrations in their books and reading enjoyment. The story itself could be for as young as 6 year olds. The words that the author uses only helps to expand the younger child's vocabulary and provide older kids with an original use of language making it that much more of an exciting, fun and entertaining Cinderella story. This isn't just any old rewrite of the Cinderella story. This one has meaning, is unique, super fun, empowers girls and brings children a new story to love and remember. My granddaughter, the one who is almost 6, has had me open this Cinder-Ella story and read it to her several times now. Jewel Hart, Chick Lit Café A modern version of the fairy-tale Cinderella, The Off-Beat Cinder Ella by Anne Murray, features a strong-willed, adventurous main character set on living on her own terms. This is a fu