Cinderella Variant - Adelita: A Mexican Cinderella Story

Bibliography
dePaola, Tomie. 2002. Adelita: A Mexican Cinderella Story. by Tomie dePaola. New York: Puffin Books. ISBN 0142401870

Plot Summary
After the death of her mother and later, father, Adelita becomes servant to her stepmother and stepsisters, who evict the family housekeeper, Esperanza. One morning her stepmother announces they are invited to a party at Senor Gordillo's ranch to celebrate their son Javier's homecoming (who happens to be Adelita's childhood friend). Rumor is that he will be looking for a wife. Adelita is not allowed to go, but finds a way to get there and something to wear with the help of Esperanza. Upon first sight, Javier falls in love with her and looks for her after her early departure from the party. He remembers the beautifully embroidered shawl she wore and finds her when he sees it hanging from her window. They marry, invite Esperanza as their housekeeper, and live happily ever after.

Critical Analysis
Tomie dePaola's Mexican Cinderella story is a delightful folktale variant. The text is straightforward and spanish phrases and their translations are placed throughout the text to bring authenticity. The story has no magical elements, which makes for a more realistic tale.

The acrylic paintings display Mexican themed borders and colors. Details within the pictures such as religious objects, pottery, and Mexican themed decor create authentic-looking Mexican settings. DePaola does an excellent job capturing not only the Mexican culture, but also the reader's eye through his splendid illustrations.

Review Excerpt(s)
Publisher's Weekly - "There's no pumpkin coach or glass slipper in sight, but Cinderella fans will find much to like in dePaola's original twist, infused with Mexican warmth and color."
BookList - "DePaola uses all the familiar elements but removes much of the magic, giving this version a realistic patina that in no way diminishes listening enjoyment."

Connections
*This folktale variant can be compared and contrasted to the Disney version of Cinderella that we all know.
*Other Mexican Cinderella stories:
Coburn, Jewell Reinhart. Domitila: A Cinderella Tale from the Mexican Tradition. ISBN 1885008139
Hayes, Joe. Estrellita de oro/Little Gold Star: A Cinderella Cuento. ISBN 0938317687