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Tropes
Synopsis
In this beautiful book of classic fairy tales, award-winning author Philip Pullman has chosen his fifty favourite stories from the Brothers Grimm and presents them in a'clear as water' retelling, in his unique and brilliant voice. From the quests and romance of classics such as 'Rapunzel', 'Snow White' and 'Cinderella' to the danger and wit of such lesser-known tales as 'The Three Snake Leaves', 'Hans-my-Hedgehog' and 'Godfather Death', Pullman brings the heart of each timeless tale to the fore, following with a brief but fascinating commentary on the story's background and history. In his introduction, he discusses how these stories have lasted so long, and become part of our collective storytelling imagination. These new versions show the adventures at their most lucid and engaging yet. Pullman's Grimm Tales of wicked wives, brave children and villainous kings will have you reading, reading aloud and rereading them for many years to come.
Is Grimm Tales appropriate for my child?
Suitable for most readers 10 and up.
Classic Grimm fairy tales contain traditional violence (witches in ovens, evil stepmothers, characters killed or transformed), but Pullman's retellings are presented clearly without graphic detail. Appropriate for middle grade readers familiar with traditional fairy tale darkness.
What to know going in
This book has moderate violence, no sexual content, and clean language. Content notes include child harm, death, and death of parent (see the full list above).
Who'll love this
Fifty classic fairy tales retold in a clear, engaging voice with beloved characters like Rapunzel, Snow White, and Cinderella alongside lesser-known magical adventures.