The World's Worst Fairy Godmother

Spells backfire to create merry mayhem in Coville's (My Teacher Is an Alien) fluffy tale. Maybelle Clodnowski, a bumbling fairy godmother, has been given one last chance to do her job correctly before her heavenly supervisor strips her of her wings and wand. She is put in charge of reforming young Susan Pfenstermacher, whose quest for perfection has alienated kids and adults alike. Adding to the chaos are Zozmagog, a cherub who, thanks to Maybelle's sloppy godmothering, has been raised as an imp; and Edna Prim, Maybelle's mentor, who has been Fairy Godmother of the Year for 147 years running. The broadly humorous scenarios, despite their fantastic premise, may inspire a worthwhile musing or two on the subject of perfection. Illustrations supply a Bavarian woods--like fairy tale setting. Ages 8-12. (Dec.)