Cinder & Glass
Predictable Cinderella reboot has lots of romance.
Kids say
Based on 1 review
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this book.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that Cinder & Glass is a romance that reboots Cinderella into the court of King Louis XIV of France. It follows the familiar fairy tale pretty closely but adds a dating-competition element. Sexy stuff is pretty mild for a romance, with just a few kisses that aren't described in detail and some mild romantic dynamics, including one same-sex couple. Violence is mostly physical and verbal bullying. There's one slap in the face, and characters die and almost die from poisoning. Wine is mentioned a few times, and there's one mention of a person drunk at a royal ball. Important characters die, and parental loss and grief are themes. A main character being "illegitimate" is an important story element.
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What's the Story?
CINDER & GLASS is the story of 15-year-old Cendrillon, who is now old enough to join her father at Versailles as a member of King Louis XIV's court. Soon after she arrives, her father dies suddenly, leaving Cendrillon with no other family than her stepmother Lady Catherine and two stepsisters. When the heir to the throne decides to hold a contest to decide whom he will marry, Lady Catherine is determined to see one of her two daughters is the one chosen. In spite of Lady Catherine's cruel treatment and attempts to undermine her chances, Cendrillon soon emerges as a favorite of the prince. But is this the happy-ever-after she really wants?
Is It Any Good?
Veteran author Melissa de la Cruz takes on Cinderella with this sigh-worthy but predictable romance. Readers who love romance will enjoy Cinder & Glass for the strong, self-confident protagonist as much as the dazzling setting, handsome princes, and elaborate fashion. Readers who don't get swept away by all that may get frustrated by the see-through plot and by Cendrillon's inability to figure out the truth. Of course the ending satisfies nicely.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how Cinder & Glass retells a familiar story in a new way. Why does is the Cinderella story so enduring? What do we love about it?
What makes Cendrillon a good role model? What are her character strengths and weaknesses?
What other versions of the Cinderella story have you read or seen? Which is your favorite? Why?
Book Details
- Author: Melissa de la Cruz
- Genre: Romance
- Topics: Fairy Tales, Great Girl Role Models, History
- Book type: Fiction
- Publisher: G.P. Putnam's Sons
- Publication date: March 8, 2022
- Publisher's recommended age(s): 12 - 17
- Number of pages: 336
- Available on: Nook, Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, iBooks, Kindle
- Last updated: March 15, 2022
Our Editors Recommend
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My Fine Fellow
Fine alternative-history romance with a foodie flair.
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The Bone Spindle, Book 1
Exciting Sleeping Beauty flip has strong female leads.
For kids who love romance and fairy tales
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