And Other Retold Fairy Tales: A Magical Journey Into New Worlds

In a world filled with endless possibilities, fairy tales have captivated readers young and old alike for centuries. These beloved stories transport us to a realm of magic and enchantment, where the ordinary becomes extraordinary and dreams come true. And now, with the rise of retellings, we can embark on a new adventure within these timeless tales. Join us as we dive into the world of retold fairy tales and discover the wonder that lies within.

The Rise of Retellings

Retellings, as the name suggests, are modern adaptations of classic fairy tales. They bring a fresh perspective to the familiar stories we have grown up with, offering new insights and twists that keep us on the edge of our seats. From Snow White to Cinderella, Beauty and the Beast to Little Red Riding Hood, these retellings breathe life into well-known characters and transport them to new settings and time periods.

One of the key reasons behind the growing popularity of retellings is our desire for escapism and nostalgia. As adults, we often long to relive the magic of our childhood and experience the joy and wonder we felt when we first encountered these stories. Retellings provide a bridge between the comfort of the familiar and the excitement of the unknown, inviting readers to rediscover their favorite tales with a fresh perspective.

A Wolf at the Door: and Other Retold Fairy Tales

by Ellen Datlow (Kindle Edition)

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2369 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	186 pages

FREE

Exploring Different Visions

Retellings offer authors the opportunity to explore diverse perspectives, reinvent characters, and expand upon the themes and morals of the original tales. From reimagining princesses as fierce warriors to giving villains a chance at redemption, retellings challenge traditional gender roles and breathe new life into stories that have often been criticized for perpetuating stereotypes.

Take, for example, "Cinder," a retelling of Cinderella by Marissa Meyer. In this futuristic rendition, Cinderella is a cyborg mechanic, living in a world plagued by a deadly pandemic. As she unravels the mysteries of her past and navigates a forbidden romance, readers are compelled to question societal norms and perceptions of beauty.

Similarly, in "The Lunar Chronicles" by the same author, retellings of "Little Red Riding Hood," "Rapunzel," and "Snow White" seamlessly intertwine with the overarching narrative, creating a world where heroines take charge of their destiny and the idea of "happily ever after" is redefined.

A Gateway to New Worlds

Retellings not only reinvent beloved characters but also invite readers to explore new worlds and cultures. Authors often incorporate diverse settings and backgrounds, allowing us to step into uncharted territories and learn about different traditions and beliefs.

One such retelling is "The Wrath and the Dawn" by Renée Ahdieh. Inspired by "One Thousand and One Nights," the story follows Shahrzad, a brave and intelligent young woman who volunteers to be the bride of the Caliph, Khalid, who kills his brides at dawn. Ahdieh transports us to the opulence of ancient Persia, immersing us in the rich tapestry of its history, folklore, and customs.

By weaving tales from different cultures into our beloved fairy tales, retellings expand our horizons and encourage us to embrace diversity and empathy. These new worlds offer readers an opportunity to explore beyond the confines of reality and see the world through a different lens.

Discover the Magic

As the popularity of retellings continues to soar, readers are spoilt for choice with a wide array of titles to choose from. Authors such as Sarah J. Maas, Neil Gaiman, and Gregory Maguire have contributed to this enchanting trend, creating a treasure trove of retellings that cater to various tastes and preferences.

Whether you're a fan of fantasy, romance, or adventure, there is a retelling waiting to whisk you away on a magical journey. From "A Court of Thorns and Roses," a retelling of "Beauty and the Beast," to "The Sleeper and the Spindle," a thrilling mash-up of "Sleeping Beauty" and "Snow White," these stories ignite our imagination and transport us to worlds that we could only dream of.

So what are you waiting for?

Step into the world of retold fairy tales and let your imagination run wild. Rediscover the magic that made these stories timeless and embark on a new adventure with your favorite characters. Whether it's a twist on a classic tale or a complete reimagination, retellings offer an escape from reality and a chance to believe in the extraordinary.

As J.R.R. Tolkien once said, "Fantasy is escapist, and that is its glory. If a soldier is imprisoned by the enemy, don't we consider it his duty to escape?" So, escape into the world of retold fairy tales and let yourself be captivated by the wonders that await.

A Wolf at the Door: and Other Retold Fairy Tales

by Ellen Datlow (Kindle Edition)

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2369 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	186 pages

FREE

These are not your mother's fairy tales...

Did you ever wonder how the dwarves felt after Snow White ditched them for the prince? Do you sometimes wish Cinderella hadn't been so helpless and petite? Are you ready to hear the Giant's point of view on Jack and his beanstalk? Then this is the book for you.
     Thirteen award-winning fantasy and science fiction writers offer up their versions of these classic fairy tales as well as other favorites, including The Ugly Duckling, Ali Baba, Hansel and Gretel, and more. Some of the stories are funny, some are strange, and others are dark and disturbing -- but each offers something as unexpected as a wolf at the door.