I stopped reading fairy tales when I was about 6, but Gail Carson Levine has a way of weaving together such captivating and spellbinding novels such as “Ella Enchanted” and “Fairest.” With the backdrop of the classic fairytale land, containing its fair share of dashing princes and vicious ogres, “Fairest” is a story that anyone at any age can relate to. Aza, is a young adopted daughter of two humble inn keepers in a land of song. While she has the most beautiful voice in all the land, Aza is considered ugly. Insecure and outcasted, Aza finds herself in a world where looks mean everything, and she believes she is doomed to be a subject of ridicule and disgust forever. It is a beautiful story, which clearly defines the belief that beauty is in the eye of the beholder while also emphasizing how important self love and acceptance is. It has all the elements of a great story,romance, adventure, and suspense, while also teaching important lessons on character. It is highly recommended, far more enchanting than any fairytale story I have read in years.