CinderElla - Grimms’ Fairy Tales did not come entirely from the imaginations of Wilhelm and Jacob Grimm. They based them on folk tales told to them by villagers. The harsh, bloody, violent original tales have lasted down through the ages. Modern translations have softened them to some extent.
The Enchanted Flounder - One of the creative writing exercises I have suggested is to rewrite a fairy tale. Susan Meredith has done just this. She has rewritten many of the fairy tales full of wicked people and scary imagery to make them child friendly.
The Halloween Tree - The Halloween Tree was written by Ray Bradbury, a master of fantasy and science fiction. First published in 1972, it is a classic tale to be enjoyed by young and old alike.
Hansel and Gretel - The stories of the Brothers Grimm have captivated children since they were first published in 1812. Many Europeans in the early 1800s saw life as cruel and erratic. Despite the cruel actions that took place in many of these tales, each one of them taught a lesson.
Little Red Riding Hood - Gabriella loved her grandmother very, very much. Visits with her included singing songs, reading stories, playing hide and seek, and eating special snacks. Her grandmother loved her so much that she made her a special red, hooded cloak.
The Magic Hour - The Magic Hour, by James S. Crowley, opens with nine-year-old twin brothers Eddie and Brian preparing to spend their first night alone outside in their tree house. Their friend, Tad, has loaned them a story that he says they must listen to.
Rumpelstiltskin - Another of Grimm’s Fairy Tales that Susan Meredith has made kinder and gentler is Rumpelstiltskin.
Snow White - Gram’s Fairy Tales version of Snow White differs greatly from the original. There is still a queen who is fanatical about her looks, a queen whose greatest desire is to be the most beautiful in all the land.
