I knew I'd like this book the second I read the first line: "I wasn't at all surprised when Cinderella gave me the finger." 
 This book makes me grateful for friends that read, otherwise I probably never would have found this one. 
 Dream Factory centers around Disney World at a time of crisis. During a struggle between Disney character actors and corporate over wages and benefits, the employees have gone on strike. With no other option they're forced to hire inexperienced teenagers to fill the roles whilst negotiations go on outside the sparkly gates. Ella, a despondent girl with an unfortunate past, is cast as Cinderella merely because the costume fits. Despite her constant sadness, Ella is a nice girl and still manages to smile for the various children tugging on her dress each day. Then there is Luke, a boy with a bright future he doesn't even know if he wants. Cast as the chipmunk Dale, opposite his girlfriend Cassie (who plays Chip), he can't help stare at the beautiful Ella as she leaves her glass slipper behind everyday. 
 Throughout the book we're given a healthy dose of reality amongst the magic. Ella's costumes are heavy and hot, often leaving her sweating while she pretends to act dainty and glamorous. Pranks end with gum stuck to Dale's furry butt. Parents go crazy in their attempts to win crying children a prize that'll soon be dropped on main street during the parade. 
 Yet, behind all the manufactured happiness there is genuine magic. 
 This story is cliched, predictable, and silly, things that normally would make me cringe. However, set in the Disney setting and featuring characters earnest in their endeavors, I find it fun. I rate this based on my reaction - I spent most of the time smiling. Ultimately, this book is precisely what Disney is all about: the fairy tale.