Zombierella

By Joseph Coelho and Freya Hartas

Published by Walker Books

Ages 8 and upwards.



Zombierella describes itself as a gory 'Fairy Tale Gone Bad' and is true to form! This Cinderella, for example, is named so because she wears her mother's ashes in a skull around her neck and instead of a Fairy Godmother, The 'Fairy of Death' turns her into Zombierella to go to the ball. And this Prince has fangs... 

Not for very young traditional fairy tale fans, but those who love guts, gore and ghosts will enjoy this tale that includes dead animals, bugs and an actual foot instead of a glass slipper! 

Amongst the gruesome details, the text is written in free verse and there are touching moments like when Zombierella is reunited with her (dead) horse and the creation of her ball dress from autumn leaves is beautiful: 

"Zombierella looked spectacular,

frozen in time..."

The front cover is truly stunning - it stands out for me, and both Cinderella and Zombierella have beautiful illustrations inside - which also includes an inclusive cast of characters. 

The ending is - literally, in this case - heart-warming:

"But new life buds when love is held,

With grave-deep determination. "

So a touch of traditional magic does make its way in there... and at the very end is what I was hoping for- which I will leave for you to find out! 

Buy on Waterstones.com 



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