Margo's Musings: If the Foot Fits!

October was spooktacular! The Halloween season was full of spirits to get us in the mood for a night of trick-or-treating. Our local library had a special display of spooky stories and my little sister, Margo, loves to be scared (because she thinks it is funny- she’s quite the brave one). Since Margo loves watching Disney’s Cinderella, I thought it would be fun to read a favorite retelling of this famous fairy tale. Cinderella Skeleton by Robert D. San Souci is a book I have enjoyed for ages. Over the last month, Margo and I read it together at least ten times. I’m not sure she understands all the references, but she’s fascinated by the illustrations and she likes the rhythm of the text. Make no bones about it; this book will surely put you in the mood for Halloween. 

Cinderella Skeleton is a lonely ghoul and her evil stepsisters make her life even harder. Living in a mausoleum still means there are chores to be done. Hanging cobwebs, arranging dead flowers- Cinderella Skeleton’s work is never done. When her stepmother doesn’t allow her to go to the ball, she is upset and knows she must find a way to attend. After a visit to the witch in the woods, Cinderella Skeleton finds herself transformed in new clothes and a special evening follows. How will this retelling end? Well, for starters she loses more than a slipper- a bony foot is left behind. Will the prince ever find out who it belongs to or will he live in sadness? Let this book tickle your funny bone as you enjoy all the creepy twists and turns. 

This story will sweep you up into the mystical world of ghouls and spirits! Margo and I love looking at the amazing illustrations by David Catrow. Some may find them a little spooky- but the colors and images gave us just the right amount of spine tingles. Ending the spooky season with this twist on an old favorite was just right. I think it may have influenced Margo’s costume- as she was Cinderella, but she wore her skeleton pajamas underneath!  She can’t get enough of this Halloween tale.

Has anyone else read Cinderella Skeleton? Or have you read another book by Robert D. San Souci? Or perhaps you have read another book illustrated by David Catrow? We’d love to hear your thoughts!

Happy Reading!
~F