Cinder Edna
What’s inside...
Cinder Edna, unlike Cinderella, doesn't have a fairy godmother but she has learned a lot from her chores and has a humorous and independent spirit. She knows how to tackle various tasks and doesn't let her circumstances bring her down. Instead, she takes matters into her own hands and shows that a girl who prefers practicality over fantasy can definitely live happily ever after.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think makes Cinder Edna different from Cinderella?
How do you feel about the way Cinder Edna solves her problems?
What can we learn from Cinder Edna's attitude towards life and challenges?
Why do you think Cinder Edna was happy in the end?
How would you have handled the situations Cinder Edna faced?
Tip: Role play these questions
Highlight the contrast between Cinder Edna and Cinderella to spark a discussion about different ways of handling situations.
Ask your child how they think being resourceful, like Cinder Edna, can be helpful in their own life.
Discuss the importance of a positive attitude and how it can affect outcomes, drawing parallels with Cinder Edna’s story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Independence and Self-Reliance
Explanation: Cinder Edna, unlike Cinderella, solves her own problems without the help of magical intervention. She takes proactive steps to improve her situation, showing initiative and resourcefulness.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of taking responsibility for their actions and making choices that lead to independence and self-sufficiency.
Example Lesson: Optimism and Positive Thinking
Explanation: Throughout the story, Cinder Edna maintains a cheerful and optimistic outlook, despite her circumstances. Her positive attitude leads to a happier life compared to Cinderella’s reliance on external rescue.
Real-World Application: Teaching children to focus on the positive aspects of any situation can lead to better mental health and resilience in the face of challenges.
Example Lesson: Environmental Awareness
Explanation: Cinder Edna uses a bus instead of a magical carriage, showcasing a practical and environmentally-friendly approach to transportation.
Real-World Application: Children learn the significance of making sustainable choices and the impact of those choices on the environment.
Example Lesson: Equality in Relationships
Explanation: Unlike Cinderella’s story, Cinder Edna chooses a partner based on mutual interests and respect rather than just charm or appearance, portraying a healthy, egalitarian relationship.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to seek and value equality and deep connection in their relationships.
Example Lesson: Financial Prudence
Explanation: Edna works and saves money, buying practical loafers instead of glass slippers, demonstrating the importance of financial management.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of earning, saving, and making practical purchases, which are crucial skills for financial independence.