The Korean Cinderella

by Shirley Climo
Illustrated by Ruth Heller
Published by Harper Collins Publishers
Copyright 1993

Summary: In this version of Cinderella set in ancient Korea, Pear Blossom, a stepchild, eventually comes to be chosen by the magistrate to be his wife.

Strengths: The illustrations are incredible. This version was not at all how I expected it to be- it didn't resemble the Cinderella story that we know and love today and it brought a different cultural aspect to it for us to embrace. The text sets up the action of the picture on the next page. It is extremely creative, diferent, and not what one would expect with the title given as Cinderella.

Concerns: It is a little hard to understand if one is not familiar with the Korean culture. I had to reread some events that happened a couple times because it was hard for me to understand and comprehend.

Age level: Upper

Classroom Use: It embraces a new culture and helps students learn about different cultures other than their own. This story helps students see how classic stories are portrayed in different cultures and countries.