A Fairy Tale Retold.
This spectacular picture book from one of the world's most popular and best-loved authors re-tells the story of Cinderella in a captivating text and glorious, vivid paintings.
Mr Cinders was a dressmaker and ran a shop in town. After his wife died, he was left to bring up their daughter, Ella, on his own. They lived happily until Mr Cinders married again. Poor Ella was treated horribly by her stepmother and two bullying stepsisters, but found solace in her friend, the young doorman Buttons.
Then one day, the whole family is invited to a grand ball given by the Duchess of Arc for her handsome son. The vain stepsisters spend hours getting ready and laugh at Ella when she asks if she can go too. So poor Ella is left behind with only the cat for company. But on this very special evening there is more than a little magic in the air . . .
This outstanding re-telling of 'Cinderella' is set in the 1920s and the paintings feature Shirley's own costume designs, inspired by the great French couturiers of the period. A delightful surprise ending completes this enchanting, imaginative adaptation.