Cinderella’s Stepsister and the Big Bad Wolf

This amusing fairy tale mashup reveals that one of Cinderella’s stepsisters, Gertie, was actually the kind, helpful one. Gertie’s Ugly mother and sisters (it’s their surname) send her to get lessons in being bad from various fairy tale villains. But Gertie can’t help herself, warning Snow White that an apple is poisoned, and Hansel and Gretel that the “Worst Witch” intends to eat them (“In that case, we won’t be staying,” say the retreating siblings). Eventually, Gertie finds friendship with the big bad wolf (who is either a female wolf or simply enjoys wearing dresses—the story can be read both ways) and romance with Prince Charming. Blanco’s digital illustrations set the story in what appears to be 1930s England while infusing Gertie’s quest with a gentle humor to match Carey’s narration. Ages 3–7. Illustrator’s agency: Bright Literary Agency. (Sept.)