Auch, Mary Jane. Chickerella. Illustrated by Mary Jane and Herm Auch. Holiday House, 2005.
ISBN 0823418049. $16.95. 32 p.
Reviewer: Rita Christensen
Reading Level: Preschool, Primary
Rating: Excellent
Genre: Fairy Tales;
Subject: Fairy Tales; Chickens--Juvenile fiction; Book--reviews;
This eggsellent fractured fairy tale is based on the popular Cinderella storyline. Chickerella's
stepmother (think Jennifer Coolidge in the movie A Cinderella Story) moves into the coop with her
daughters, Ovumelda and Cholestera. Poor Chickerella is banished to the springhouse and is soon busy
with the family's cooking and cleaning. The prince invites all available hens to the Fowl Ball and in the
nick of time a Fairy Goosemother appears to create an eggsquisite gown for Chickerella. At the stroke of
midnight, Chickerella dashes down the stairs leaving a glass egg behind. You know the rest; however,
there is an interesting twist at the end you won't want to miss.
Chickerella is a fun addition to Auch's other poultry-themed picture books. Mary Jane sculpted
the chickens out of clay and handmade the fashionable outfits. Herm created the sets, took the pictures,
and manipulated the photos on the computer. This collaboration turned out a glitzy, pun-filled story that
both children and adults can enjoy. A good companion book to read with the traditional Cinderella story
for contrast. Also a hilarious selection to include in a hen-themed story time.
