Cinderella of the Nile
One Story, Many Voices Series
What’s inside...
Beautifully retold by Beverley Naidoo, this version of Cinderella, known as the earliest, is revived for today's audience. Rhodopis, a Greek girl sold into slavery and taken to Egypt, befriends Aesop and animals along her journey. Given rose-red slippers by her master, she inadvertently attracts envy and an unexpected event involving a falcon named Horus that leads her to the King of Egypt. This tale marks the beginning of the 'One Story, Many Voices' series, exploring the universal resonance of Cinderella's story across global cultures.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-11
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think makes Cinderella of the Nile different from other versions of Cinderella you know?
How do you feel about the choices Cinderella made in the story?
What can we learn from the way Cinderella treats other characters in the book?
How would you have handled the challenges Cinderella faced?
What does this story teach us about kindness and resilience?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by sharing your own thoughts on the story to encourage your child to open up.
Ask your child to pick a favorite character and explain why they liked them, promoting empathy and understanding.
Help your child connect the story to their own experiences, which can foster deeper understanding and personal reflection.
Encourage your child to imagine alternative scenarios within the story, enhancing their creative thinking and problem-solving skills.
Discuss the historical and cultural setting of the story, providing a broader perspective and enriching their learning experience.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in adversity
Explanation: Cinderella of the Nile features the protagonist, Rhodopis, who faces several hardships, including being kidnapped and enslaved. Despite these challenges, she maintains hope and perseverance.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to remain resilient and hopeful even when facing difficulties. It teaches them to overcome obstacles with a positive spirit.
Example Lesson: Cultural appreciation and diversity
Explanation: This retelling of the Cinderella story incorporates elements from Greek and Egyptian folklore, demonstrating the integration and appreciation of different cultures.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to respect and celebrate diverse cultures, understanding the value and richness they bring to our lives.
Example Lesson: Kindness and its rewards
Explanation: Rhodopis shows kindness to others throughout the story, despite her own circumstances. This kindness comes back to her, aiding in her eventual fortune.
Real-World Application: Promotes the importance of being kind to others regardless of one’s situation. It highlights how acts of kindness can lead to positive outcomes and how treating others well is rewarding.
Example Lesson: Importance of inner beauty
Explanation: Rhodopis is appreciated not just for her physical appearance but also for her gracious and kind heart. Unlike other Cinderella stories that may focus more on external beauty, this story emphasizes inner qualities.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to value and cultivate inner virtues such as kindness, generosity, and humility over superficial appearances.
Example Lesson: Courage to be oneself
Explanation: Rhodopis remains true to herself despite various hardships and never pretends to be someone else to fit in or gain favor.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of authenticity and encourages them to embrace their true selves in all situations, promoting self-acceptance and confidence.