The Egyptian Cinderella

This story is similar to the well-known Cinderella except that it takes place in Greece. Rhodopis is a Greek slave who is ridiculed by Egyptian servants. Her master gave her a pair of golden slippers for her talented dancing, only to have one of them stolen. The stolen slipper ends up in the hands of the pharaoh, who decides to marry the girl whom this slipper belongs to. 

This is such a touching story that includes both folklore and historical references. It is interesting to have such a popular story told in a different country, different culture, and with elements of both fact and fiction.

To use this in a classroom you could make a Venn diagram. One circle would be The Egyptian Cinderella and the other would be the original version of Cinderella. What do they have in common? What are the differences between the two stories?

Knut

The same authors of Owen and Mzee tell the story of Knut, a polar bear from a zoo in Berlin. Knut's mother did not look after him as a newborn. In order to save his life, zookeeper Thomas assumed the responsibility of caring for him. Thomas fed him, bathed him, slept with him, played with him, and did everything else that Knut's mother would have done. Thomas went over three months without leaving the zoo, as to spend all his time with Knut. Thomas became Knut's foster parent. Knut still lives today. 

This story touched me as much as the story of Owen and Mzee. It is amazing to see a polar bear interact with a human being as if he is his biological father. Not only is this a heartwarming story for any age, but it is also a wonderful message to send to children- there are all types of families and love. I recommend this book to everyone!