"You may think you know this story I am going to tell you, but you have not heard it for true."
Readers are informed at the beginning of Cendrillon: A Caribbean Cinderella that this version of the old tale differs immensely from the original. With illustrations of deep blue sea water and the inclusion of Creole terms, Robert San Souci provides an interesting cultural twist to this classic story.
San Souci introduces readers to Cendrillon and her godmother, a washerwoman who lives on the Caribbean island of Martinique. After her father marries and has another daughter, Cendrillon is forced to do the household chores for the family. One day while completing her chores, Cendrillon informs her godmother she is not allowed to attend the ball. A surprise appearance at the ball masterminded by her godmother magically changes Cendrillon's life forever!
"When I grew up, I worked as a blanchisseuse, a washerwoman, scrubbing other people's sheets and shirts at riverside.
San Souci stays true to Caribbean culture by including Creole vocabulary in the text. In addition, he provides a glossary for readers at the end of the story.
Pinkney's illustrations are precise and brings the setting of the story to life. The palm trees and mansion illustrations provide unique imagery for readers. Young readers who are interested in reading stories with a different cultural perspective, and educators eager to explore culture with their students will cherish this tale!
