This beloved Newbery Honor-winning story about a feisty heroine is sure to enchant readers new and old.  At her birth, Ella of Frell receives a foolish fairy's gift—the “gift” of obedience. Ella must obey any order, whether it's to hop on one foot for a day and a half, or to chop off her own head! But strong-willed Ella does not accept her fate... Against a bold backdrop of princes, ogres, giants, wicked stepsisters, and fairy godmothers, Ella goes on a quest to break the curse forever. A tween favorite for 25 years—now shared with today's young readers by moms, teachers, and other adults who remember the pleasure of discovering this fun fairy-tale retelling themselves! What happens when the most strong-willed girl in the kingdom is forced to be the most obedient? A Rebellious Heroine: Ella of Frell wasn't born to follow orders. But thanks to a fairy's "gift", she has no choice—unless she can find the cleverness to fight back. A Magical Quest: To break her curse, Ella must journey through a kingdom filled with hungry ogres, kind giants, and treacherous new family members. An Unforgettable Romance: A charming prince, a royal ball, and a glass slipper... but this is no ordinary fairy tale, and Ella must save herself first. Humor and Heart: Praised by readers and teachers for over 25 years, this witty and enchanting adventure is about finding your own voice against all odds.