Cinderella Story from India - Anklet for a Princess

Indian Cinderella Story

You don’t come across children’s stories set in India in American libraries very often. So when we spotted Anklet for a Princess – A Cinderella Story from India at our library, naturally, we were pleasantly surprised and had to check it out.

Granted, the book is a little prose-heavy and may be appropriate for older readers rather than toddlers or beginner readers. Yet, the vivid illustrations and the charming tale more than make up for that and if you ask me, you can go ahead and enjoy it with your pre-schooler if you like. Which is what I did with M.

‘Not Cinderella again’, I hear you groan! But wait! Replace Cinderella with Cinduri, the Fairy Godmother with Godfather Snake, Cinderella’s slippers with Cinduri’s anklets and the Royal Ball with the Navarathri Puja and what do you have? A magical Indian twist to an age-old fairy tale that you can relate to and relish with your children all over again.

Indian children's book

* My little girl’s favorite parts of this book were the wonderful details in the illustrations…the anklets, the ornaments, the flowing saris and vibrant colors that bring the story alive.
* She also loved the little song about the Godfather Snake that Cinduri uses to beckon him when in need of his help.
* The book features beautiful depictions of rural Indian settings, clothes, ornaments and village lifestyle.
* Even if your child is too young to sit through a reading with you, the book provides plenty of fodder for storytelling, craft projects and activities.
* My daughter who loves to wear traditional Indian clothes and jewelry on special occasions couldn’t stop looking at the vibrant costumes and jewels.
* A longer book like this one may also be a good way to improve your child’s concentration and focus. If you keep the reading interesting enough, you might be suprised to discover how attentive your 3-year old can be!

So, if you’re tired of Cinderella but your child wants you to read it to her for the 456th time, give this Cinderella story from India a chance. And who knows where your next family vacation will take you?!