Book Review: Cinderella Ninja Warrior

Title: Cinderella Ninja Warrior

Author: Maureen McGowan

Book Summary

In this fast-paced story full of adventure and romance, Cinderella is more than just a servant girl waiting for her prince—she's a tough, fearless girl who is capable of taking charge of a dangerous situation. Seeking to escape the clutches of her evil stepmother, Cinderella perfects her ninja skills and magic talents in secret, waiting for the day when she can break free and live happily ever after. In a special twist, readers have the opportunity to make key decisions for Cinderella and decide where she goes next—but no matter the choice; the result is a story unlike any fairy tale you've ever read!

My Review
I've been seeing a ton of these books where a classic tale is changed in some way as well as a lot of retelling of fairy tales. Cinderella is probably my favorite Disney "princess" story, so I was pretty interested in this one.  I'm glad I got to read it!

Ok we all know the story of Cinderella and the argument about how she needs "saving" from the prince.  Well this is a Cinderella that needs saving, but she's far from helpless.  I so love the fact that this Cinderella is learning magic and ninja skills.  Given the chance she would be able to fight back.  Unfortunately for her this story still contains the evil step mother and bossy step sisters.  And to make matters worse - this step mother knows magic.  She uses that magic to keep Cinderella locked in the house.

The Characters:  Loved Cinderella.  She was just fun.  I could see hanging out with her and having a good time.  She never gave up and jumped into situations that scare her without backing out.  She wasn't completely confident, but she refused to give up.  I loved how she entered the magic competition even though she didn't know much magic and if her step mother saw her it could be the end of any chance of escape.  It's cheesy but you know the saying "when life gives you lemons make lemonade"?  Well Cinderella did that and more.  Gotta like the kick butt ninja she was becoming!

Ty, the love interest, seemed nice and sweet, but he did lack the depth that Cinderella had.  He was necessary to carry out the Cinderella story, and I really liked that he wasn't there as the only way to save Cinderella.  It was clearly more of a partnership with pure support.

The step mother and sisters were pretty stereotypical but that was to be expected since that's the role they need to play in the story.  I did like that they weren't so over exaggerated to the point of being too much.  They were annoying, mean, cruel and horrible but not too much so.

The plot:  If you don't know this is a "pick your own ending" book.  I haven't read on in years, and I found it really fun.  I've been reading a lot of books lately where I didn't like some of the choices that the main character made, so it was refreshing to be the one making the choices!  The plot had enough twists and surprises to keep things interesting which was great considering the Cinderella story is one we all know.  I did have a few things figured out before they were revealed, but also some things surprised me.  The plot pulls you along - well it did me because I was excited to get to the next choice!  I liked how it all ended and was amazed at how all the different paths came together.

I do have to comment briefly on the love story.  We all know that Cinderella is the story of a girl finding her prince.  This one is no different even though this Cinderella could kick most princesses' butts.  The love story was sweet boarding on cheesy, but it feet the story.  I had a lot of "awwwww" moments, and I think we can all use those.

Final Thought:  Nice ninja action mixed with magic and love. 
Best stick-with-you image: Ok I'm a sucker for pretty gowns so the description of a gown she wore!
Best for readers who: Like choices, likes a twist on the familiar and likes fun stories
Best for ages: 11+

Now stay tuned tomorrow for a great guest post by the author and a giveaway!!!