TL;DR
Cinder, a cyborg mechanic with a mysterious past, navigates a deadly plague and intergalactic struggles in a futuristic retelling of Cinderella.
What is Cinder about
Cinder, the first book in Marissa Meyer’s Lunar Chronicles series, reimagines the classic Cinderella tale in a futuristic setting. The story follows Cinder, a cyborg mechanic, who becomes entangled with Prince Kai amidst a deadly plague and political tensions with the ruthless Lunar beings. As Cinder uncovers secrets about her past, she faces high-stakes challenges that determine the fate of her world. With a blend of science fiction, romance, and action, the novel offers a fresh and original take on the well-known fairy tale.
Cinder 5 Key Takeaways
Introduction of Cinder
Cinder is introduced as a talented mechanic and cyborg living in New Beijing. Her life changes when Prince Kai seeks her help in repairing a broken android.
The Deadly Plague
A lethal plague known as letumosis is ravaging the Earth, and Cinder's stepsister falls ill, leading to Cinder being volunteered for plague research due to her cyborg status.
Secrets of Cinder’s Past
Cinder discovers crucial secrets about her own history, including her true identity and the connections to the Lunar people, who have hostile intentions towards Earth.
Conflict with Queen Levana
The Lunar Queen Levana poses a significant threat to Earth, and her political manipulations put Prince Kai in a difficult position, further complicating Cinder’s situation.
Cinder’s Escape
As tensions peak, Cinder must escape imprisonment and figure out how to use her newfound knowledge to defend Earth and protect those she cares about.
Top Cinder Quotes
- “Even in the Future the Story Begins with Once Upon a Time.”
- “Vanity is a factor, but it is more a question of control. It is easier to trick others into perceiving you as beautiful if you can convince yourself you are beautiful.”
Who should read Cinder?
Cinder is ideal for young adults and fans of science fiction and fairy tales. Readers aged 12 and up will appreciate the blend of futuristic elements and classic storylines, along with the strong, resourceful heroine. It’s perfect for those seeking a unique retelling of a timeless fairy tale.
Cinder Best Reviews
- Publisher's Weekly: 'Meyer ingeniously incorporates key fairy tale elements into her science fiction world, creating a compelling narrative that captivates readers from start to finish.'
- The New York Times: 'Cinder is a skillful blend of sci-fi and fairy tale that captures the imagination with its inventive setting and memorable characters.'
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Cinder FAQs
Is Cinder book spicy?
No, the book is clean with no explicit content. The romance between Kai and Cinder is sweet and appropriate for a young audience.
What age is Cinder appropriate for?
Cinder is suitable for readers aged 12 and up, though it can also be enjoyed by mature younger readers with guidance. The book addresses some heavy themes, including disease and abuse.
What grade level is the book Cinder?
Cinder is generally suited for readers in grades 6-12, but a mature younger reader might also find it engaging. The book combines readable language with complex themes.