Brave Red, Smart Frog: A New Book of Old Tales
A New Book of Old Tales
by Emily Jenkins; illustrator, Rohan Daniel Eason
Candlewick Press
Candlewick
Children's Fiction
Pub Date 05 Sep
FTC Reviewed ARC for Candlewick Press and Net Galley
Description
Step into a wintry forest where seven iconic fairy tales unfold, retold with keen insight and touches of humor.
There once was a frozen forest so cold you could feel it through the soles of your boots. It was a strange place where some kisses broke enchantments, and others began them. Many said witches lived there—some with cold hearts, others with hot ovens and ugly appetites—and also dwarves in tiny houses made of stones. In this icy wood, a stepmother might eat a girl's heart to restore her own beauty, while a woodcutter might become stupid with grief at the death of his donkey. Here a princess with too many dresses grows spiteful out of loneliness, while a mistreated girl who is kind to a crone finds pearls dropping from her mouth whenever she speaks. With empathy and ear for emotion, Emily Jenkins retells seven fairy tales in contemporary language that reveals both the pathos and humor of some of our most beloved stories. Charming illustrations by Rohan Daniel Eason add whimsical details that enhance every new reading.
My Thoughts
I love tales. And these seven fairy tales, are presented as stories, one might tell during story hour. Why did Red believe the wolf was reliable? Did you know Snow White's Mother had two other possible names for her? Why do you think the enchanted frog loved the princess? I like that the writing is creative and provides explanations, answers and alternatives for the tales.