Cinderella Variation

I. BIBLIOGRAPHY

Ketteman, Helen. 1997. BUBBA THE COWBOY PRINCE: A FRACTURED TEXAS TALE. Ill. By James Warhola. New York: Scholastic. ISBN: 0590255061

II. PLOT SUMMARY

In this retelling of the classic fairytale CINDERELLA, Ketteman places the story on a ranch in Texas. Bubba is this story’s Cinderella character, forced to do the work around the ranch that his “lazy stepbrothers” refuse to do. His stepbrothers spend their days bossing Bubba around.

Meanwhile, Miz Lurleen, a beautiful, rich neighbor decides to throw a ball to find herself a husband. As in the classic tale, Bubba is transformed by his fairy godmother that in this story is a cow. Bubba goes to the ball and captures Miz Lurleen’s heart, but at midnight he is changed back and runs off, leaving one of his boots. Miz Lurleen is determined to find the boot’s rightful owner. After trying Bubba’s stepbrothers, she finally finds the owner. Bubba and Miz Lurleen live happily every after

III.CRITICAL ANALYSIS

Kelleman’s retelling of CINDERELLA is just like the original tale, with a few minor adjustments. In this story, it is set in Texas with a boy as the “Cinderella” character. The writing style lends itself well to be read aloud. The reader can have fun with a Texas twang as they read the dialog of the characters. Though certainly not proper English, the language in this book adds a sense of place and humor to the story. When the “Godcow” transforms Bubba, he exclaims, “Why, I look downright purty.” This is one example of the Texas drawl written into the voices of the characters.

The illustrations in this book are both colorful and expressive. The faces of the people and animals are cartoon-like, adding humor to the story. In addition, the details in the illustrations make the reader want to savor each page, taking in all of the nuances of the illustrations.

IV. REVIEW EXCERPTS

“Ketteman wisely leaves the plot unchanged, but the story has a distinct western flair and a humorous tall-tale feel that is greatly enhanced by the exaggerated actions and facial expressions of the characters in Warhola's double-page-spread oil paintings. With a male in the starring role, this charming and funny retelling may hold more appeal for young boys than the traditional version may.” –Booklist

“Rustler lingo and illustrations chockablock with Texas kitsch make this ranch-spun Cinder-fella a knee-slappin' tale.” –Publishers Weekly

V. CONNECTIONS

• Share another Cinderella story and compare the differences and similarities between the two.
• Have the children create their own Cinderella story.