FallenKingdomReads’ list of 7 Must-Read Fairy Tale Retellings in Fantasy
Fairy tales have been told and retold for centuries, and in the realm of fantasy, authors have taken these classic stories and spun them into something new and fresh. Here are 7 must-read fairy tale retellings in the world of fantasy:
Cinder by Marissa Meyer
In a futuristic world, Cinderella is reimagined as a cyborg mechanic who is caught between political tensions and a deadly plague outbreak. With action, romance, and a dash of sci-fi, this retelling is perfect for fans of both fairy tales and dystopian fiction.
The Bear and the Nightingale by Katherine Arden
Set in medieval Russia, this retelling of Vasilisa the Beautiful follows a young girl who must use her wit and magical abilities to save her village from the wrath of the Frost King. With beautiful prose and a richly-drawn world, this book is a stunning example of fairy tale retellings in historical fantasy.
Uprooted by Naomi Novik
In this retelling of Beauty and the Beast, a young woman is taken from her home to serve a powerful sorcerer known as the Dragon. As she begins to uncover the secrets of his past, she finds herself drawn to him in ways she never thought possible.
Spinning Silver by Naomi Novik
This retelling of Rumpelstiltskin follows three women as they navigate a world of political intrigue and faerie magic. With multiple perspectives and a richly-drawn world, this book is perfect for fans of both fairy tales and epic fantasy.
The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill
In a world where magic is feared and forbidden, a young girl named Luna becomes infused with its power and must navigate a dangerous world of politics and intrigue.
The Bloody Chamber by Angela Carter
This collection of short stories retells classic fairy tales like Bluebeard, Beauty and the Beast, and Little Red Riding Hood with a feminst, dark and erotic twist. With lush prose and unsettling imagery, this collection is a must-read if you enjoy both fairy tales and Gothic literature.
The Golem and the Jinni by Helene Wecker
Set in turn-of-the-century New York, this novel retells the story of the golem from Jewish folklore and the jinni from Arabian mythology. As the two supernatural beings navigate the human world and each other, they must confront their differences and discover what it truly means to be alive.
