Martin, Rafe. The Rough-Face Girl. New York: Puffin, 1992. Print.
· Authors: Rafe Martin and David Shannon
· Picture Book
· Publication Date: 1992
· Genre: folklore, oral tales
· Age Range: 8-10 years old
· Awards: none
When comparing many of the Cinderella stories there are a lot of similarities despite there being many different versions in existence. This Native American version, however, only resembles Cinderella since there is a younger sister being taunted by her two older sisters and this younger sister (Rough-Face as her older sisters called her) seeks to marry the Invisible Being like many of the other girls in her tribe. This adaptation from the original tale (that existed through oral tradition, long before Perrault’s version) remains true to the Native American roots and shows that beauty is found in the heart. This idea is conveyed very strongly throughout the text as the narrator speaks of the Invisible Being’s sister being able to see that the Rough-Face Girl “had a beautiful, kind heart” despite her scarred skin, her burnt hair, and her strange clothes. This truly is one of the most interesting versions of Cinderella and also one of the most culturally rich versions. It is perfect for any reader who wishes to gain insight into the ancient Native American culture as well as the versions that influenced Perrault’s story of Cinderella and the similar stories we find today.
Author’s Website: http://www.rafemartin.com/
· Authors: Rafe Martin and David Shannon
· Picture Book
· Publication Date: 1992
· Genre: folklore, oral tales
· Age Range: 8-10 years old
· Awards: none
When comparing many of the Cinderella stories there are a lot of similarities despite there being many different versions in existence. This Native American version, however, only resembles Cinderella since there is a younger sister being taunted by her two older sisters and this younger sister (Rough-Face as her older sisters called her) seeks to marry the Invisible Being like many of the other girls in her tribe. This adaptation from the original tale (that existed through oral tradition, long before Perrault’s version) remains true to the Native American roots and shows that beauty is found in the heart. This idea is conveyed very strongly throughout the text as the narrator speaks of the Invisible Being’s sister being able to see that the Rough-Face Girl “had a beautiful, kind heart” despite her scarred skin, her burnt hair, and her strange clothes. This truly is one of the most interesting versions of Cinderella and also one of the most culturally rich versions. It is perfect for any reader who wishes to gain insight into the ancient Native American culture as well as the versions that influenced Perrault’s story of Cinderella and the similar stories we find today.
Author’s Website: http://www.rafemartin.com/