Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for granting me free access to the advanced digital copy of this book.

(Unedited: Will publish online/in print with Daily Journal Media June 22).

A modern twist on a classic fairytale, "Punkerella; A Cinderella retelling with Grandma Rhonda Reads" by Ami Agisi is a middle reader appropriate for readers as young as age eight with life lessons appropriate for children, teens and parents alike.

Ella is a good kid. She gets good grades, does all her chores without complaining (at least out loud) and doesn't even wear clothes the her step-mom doesn't pick out for her; but she isn't happy. Nearing the end of middle school, all Ella wants to do is spend time with her step-grandmother or be afforded the same freedom as her older twin step-brothers, who spend all of their time rocking out in the garage.

One night, Ella gets a brief taste of that freedom, of the life she wants to life, and everything starts to change; but is it for the better or for the worse?

Life lessons are learned all around and the importance of communication, honesty, responsibility and family dynamics are examined in the pages of "Punkerella," all in the name of punk rock, of course.

This writer's feedback: "I appreciated the way the author wove lessons into the story using punk rock as the backdrop. Despite the fact that the protagonist is a girl, this is definitely a Cinderella story that boys would enjoy, too. In fact, my 11-year-old saw me reading it and said, 'I should read that!' So, we will be getting a copy for our bookshelf!"

"Punkerella: A Cinderella retelling with Grandma Rhonda Reads" by Ami Agisi

c. 2024, 74 pages, $6.99

"Punkerella: A Cinderella Retelling with Grandma Rhonda Reads" by Grandma Rhonda Reads and Ami Agisi is a brilliantly inventive middle grade novel that reimagines the classic tale in the world of punk rock. Ella, our modern-day Cinderella, is trapped in an endless cycle of chores and schoolwork imposed by her strict stepmother and demanding stepbrothers, leaving her little time for her true passion—playing the bass guitar.

The story takes an exciting turn when Granny Gaz, Ella's punk rock grandmother, steps in like a fairy godmother, introducing her to a world of music and freedom. The vibrant illustrations capture the rebellious spirit of punk, adding a dynamic layer to the narrative. The book beautifully balances the themes of self-discovery and resilience, making it an inspiring read for young audiences. Ella's journey to find her voice and follow her dreams is both touching and empowering. This modern retelling is a must-read for anyone who loves a good fairy tale with a rock-and-roll twist.

This was a fun, cute, and easy read. I enjoyed this and liked that it was a unique take on the “Cinderella” concept and I liked that the older brothers weren’t actually as mean as you originally thought, just teenagers. 4.5/5

This was such a fun little read. I adored every single aspect of it;from Ella’s excitement and need for music to her brothers turning out to be not such terrible siblings.
Gaz’s character was definitely my favorite, and I love how she was both responsible and very kind to Ella.