Cinderella

Hilary Knight brings Cinderella to life with characters endowed with the same humor, zest, and personality that made readers adore his most famous creation, Eloise. His version includes delightful touches: house cats, a blue fairy godmother, and a slightly plump Prince Charming, that dance across the pages and into readers’ hearts. Knight’s graceful lines and character-filled illustrations lend fresh charm and gentle wit to the classic fairy tale.

Knight once reflected: “I attribute any abilities I possess to the fact that both my parents are artists and writers. My father, Clayton Knight, is well-known for his aviation paintings and books. My mother, Katharine Sturges, has done fashion drawings, fabric designs as well as many children’s books.” (The Horn Book, 1968)

Born November 1, 1926, in Hempstead, Long Island, Knight studied at the Art Students League under Reginald Marsh before serving in the Navy (1944–46). He began publishing humorous drawings in magazines, and his first major success came with his illustrations for Eloise in 1955. He has illustrated over fifty books, many blending sophistication, playfulness, and theatrical spirit.

Knight’s Cinderella was first published in 1978 by Random House Children’s Books. In this edition, he stays faithfully close to Charles Perrault’s story while infusing the visuals with his own stylized, expressive energy and soft palette.