Fairy godmother An Enchanters tale

Gr 7 Up--Bibbidi-bobbidi-who? This first in a new series will have readers questioning everything they ever knew about the mysterious yet magical Fairy Godmother from Disney's 1950 animated classic Cinderella. Renée carefully watches over her niece and nephew, guiding them through lessons while at the same time igniting their imaginations with stories of fairies. Most people would say that they do not even exist. However, Renée knows they are real because she was saved when she was a child by her own fairy godmother from a fire that destroyed her family. So, when Renée is suddenly whisked away to a new realm where she finds herself now part-fairy, she will do whatever it takes to become a fairy godmother herself. Worldbuilding is very important in this title, but that should not intimidate readers unfamiliar with fantasy. Spells, wands, and the rules of magic are interspersed throughout, so that the details do not weigh the story down. This book would do well in middle grade or early YA collections that circulate a lot of fantasy and as a palatable introduction to the genre. Readers do not need to have a connection to Cinderella to enjoy this backstory, but Calonita brings the two stories together at the end, rewarding fans of the film. VERDICT This new series will offer fans of the "Twisted Tale" books a gentle transition into YA fiction.--Zach Basler