Angkat: The Cambodian Cinderella Review

Manufacturer: Shen's Books
Author(s): Jewell Reinhart Coburn

ISBN: 1885008090 EAN: 9781885008091
Binding: Hardcover
Pages: 32
Reading Level: Ages 4-8

Average Rating: 3 out of 5 Stars

Retail Price: ~~$16.95~~
Online Sale Price: $11.53
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In the first English retelling of this ancient Cambodian tale, our heroine goes further, survives more, and has to conquer her own mortality to ragain her rightful place. Angkat—child of ashes—endures great wrongs as she seeks to rise above the distresses caused by her own family. Angkat appeared in an 18th century French essay which was found by Dr. Coburn deep in some dusty archives while she was researching Khmer culture and folklore. The artist effectively employed dramatic expressions, gestures, and ambiance in each illustration. This ancient and truly captivating version of the Cinderella story will delight and enthrall readers of all ages.

User Submitted Angkat: The Cambodian Cinderella Reviews

March 13, 2007
Not appropriate for my children
The illustrations are very nice. The original story was written by a French folklorist while living in Cambodia in the 1800's so the story may be an authentic Cambodian tale. However, I returned the book after reading to myself. I did not think it was appropriate for my children. The "Spirit of Virtue" helps the girl (who looks like a female Buddha) and guides her. The spirits "presence is felt". The main character Angkat is actually killed by her father, stepmother, and stepsister (they pushed her into a steaming cauldron) At the end the "Spirit of Virtue" brings her back to life (I think- its unclear whether she is actually alive or a spirit presence now) The Spirit of Virtue "blesses".
If these issues don't bother you, then you will like the book. If you would have difficulty reading these things to your child, skip it.

December 29, 1998
An attractive tale that can be savored by readers of all age
Underneath the vast differences between the customs and way of daily life in this colorful Eastern land of long ago and the settings of the traditional Cinderella story are enough similarities to enlist the interest and sympathies of the modern-day reader. More important are the universal values which permeate this charming tale-compassion, fidelity to one's family (even if it brings pain,) and justice. An attractive, multicultural tale that can be savored by readers of all ages.

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