Retold by: Charlotte Huck Illustrated by: Anita Lobel “Furball,” one of the many variants of the Cinderella story, was my favorite childhood fairy tale. Readers will recognize it as being similar to the English “Catskin,” and to the Grimms’ “Many Furs” or “Thousand Furs.” With the exception of the well-known French Cinderella tale with its glass slipper ending, this variant with the “hated marriage” motif is the most popular of the more than five hundred variants of the Cinderella story. Many of these tales included an unlawful marriage or incestuous theme. In rewriting this	version, I believe I have been faithful to the psychological truth of the earlier tellings. Charlotte Huck Redlands, California Critic’s Corner This reader viewed Princess Furball as a positive version of Cinderella. The underlying theme is one of perseverance. “She was clever, patient and willing to endure humble circumstances and in the end received her reward, happily ever after.” So says Mrs. Goose.	Talk To Us! We would love to hear your response after reading Princess Furball. Here are some questions you can respond to or just tell us what you think. What is your prediction for Princess Furball’s future? What does ‘Happily ever after’ mean? When Princess Furball ran away, would you call that rebellion or was she exerting her independence? Created by: Rose Ann Wastjer Kate Smathers Suzanne Miller