Delve into 12 Fairy Tales that Every Fantasy Lover Should Read
Book RaiderDim and distant worlds, daring quests, quirky characters! Welcome to the realm of fairy tales, where fantasy blooms wild and runs free like an unleashed unicorn. A mystical place where you can go mano-a-mano with dragons, hobnob with gnomes or even have a tête-à-tête with a faery queen – all within the comfort of your cozy reading nook.
So brace yourselves, fellow fantasy enthusiasts! This is not just any list. We're not talking about your regular “once upon a time” fairy tales that lull you to slumber―au contraire, prepare to take an enchanting, wild ride into beguiling narratives that have stood the test of time and yet, manage to sparkle with fresh allure. After all, who can resist the allure of the extraordinary told extraordinarily?
The Bear and the Nightingale
by Katherine Arden
Why The Bear and the Nightingale is on this list: All the magic and folklore that a fantasy lover could want is packed into this book. It takes you on a magical journey into the heart of a fairy tale. This enchanting novel features the fairy tale elements we all cherish, with a unique twist
This story is set in the wilds of the wintry Russian wilderness. It introduces us to Vasilisa, a young, headstrong girl who has the unique ability to see the mystical creatures that the rest of her village is blind to. As her village is ensnared by fear and dread brought on by a zealous priest, Vasilisa must depend on her wits, courage, and a slew of magical creatures to protect her home from the looming darkness. It's not your run-of-the-mill princess fairy tale, that's for sure.
What readers like: Readers enjoy the beautifully, almost poetically, written piece with strong, in-depth character development. They love the feminist touch to the novel and appreciate the vivid, rich world that Arden has woven with her words. This is not a simple fairy tale of good versus evil, there are depth and complexity to characters that readers have found refreshing. Plus, if you've always been keen on learning about a little Russian folklore, then you're in for a real treat
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Uprooted
by Naomi Novik
Why Uprooted is on this list: It's for those who fancy breathtaken spins on well-known fairy tales. Yes, the one with a dark-ish forest, magic and unlikely heroes – pretty much the complete fairytale package with an extra sprinkling of inventiveness.
Uprooted happens in a quiet village on the border of a malevolent wood, where a blessed but clumsy young woman named Agnieszka is chosen by a cold-hearted wizard to be his assistant. But this is not your classic 'damsel in distress' plot, as Agnieszka, with her weird knack for spells, turns into a fairytale maverick. She joins forces with the wizard to combat that creepy wood, unleashing an epic adventure that unveils the truth, mystery, and power behind the ancient stories we’ve all heard before.
What readers like: Lovers of the mystical and fantastical rave about Uprooted for its unique mix of dark magic, twisted forest lore, and unconventional fairytale charm. No doubt they also fell for the robust and relatable Agnieszka. Naomi Novik’s magical prose and her knack for storytelling are the icing on the fairytale cake that's begging to be devoured.
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The Cruel Prince
by Holly Black
Why The Cruel Prince is on this list: The Cruel Prince is a new-age fairy tale with a dark twist that would make the Grimm Brothers tip their hats in respect. It's perfect for those who appreciate traditional fairy tales but love a good plot flip in their fantasy reading.
This book masterfully weaves a story of Jude, a human girl tangled in the world of royal and deceptive faeries. Expect magic, deceit, betrayal and, of course, cruel princes. Full of intense plot twists, it's a book that'll have you holding your breath until the last page.
What readers like: Readers love walking the beautifully dangerous line of being enamored by its exquisite storytelling and being horrified by the tales of deceit and treachery. The characters are multi-layered and the storyline is gripping. They describe it as a flavorful cocktail of royal politics, wicked games, and deadly intrigues. If you're up for an adventure that drifts from the usual, The Cruel Prince is your next stop.
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Cinder
by Marissa Meyer
Why Cinder is on this list: Cinder puts a twist on a classic fairy tale to create a unique, fantastical world that all fantasy buffs are sure to find compelling.
The book is a fresh take on the archetypal Cinderella story, only this time, our heroine is not just a mistreated daughter, but also a cyborg living in a dystopian future. This retelling spins a tale about plague, intergalactic struggle, and unlikely love. And of course, we can't forget about that loathed, dastardly stepmother character.
What readers like: Readers are drawn to this tale because of its engaging blend of fantasy and science fiction. It takes the beloved fairy tale, Cinderella, and turns it on its head, bringing in elements of robotics, aliens, and political intrigue. Moreover, Meyer's portrayals of the characters are relatable and likable, making the readers cheer for them enthusiastically.
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All the Birds in the Sky
by Charlie Jane Anders
Why All the Birds in the Sky is on this list: If the idea of mixing fairy tale fantasy with science fiction whets your reading appetite, 'All the Birds in the Sky' fits impeccably. An unorthodox mesh of whimsical fantasy with a touch of sci-fi—that makes you wonder 'What's not to love?'
The book is a nifty blend, featuring the lives of two characters: Patricia, a gifted witch, and Laurence, an engineering whiz. Their weirdly unique narratives intertwine, making 'All the Birds in the Sky' a roller coaster ride of magic, technology, global catastrophe and, you know, the usual stuff that tends to happen when a witch and a nerd collide.
What readers like: Readers seem to adore the quirkiness of Anders' storytelling, there's a certain charm in her ability to mix the elements of fantasy with modern life. Oh, and who can resist a tale of friendship with a sprinkle (or bucketload) of weird? You might love this book if you're into 'not-your-average' kinds of fairy tale twists.
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Boy, Snow, Bird
by Helen Oyeyemi
Why Boy, Snow, Bird is on this list: You might be into dragons and unicorns, but Helen Oyeyemi's 'Boy, Snow, Bird' reminds us that fairy tales can also take a human form and bring a magical realism. Oyeyemi puts a fantasy spin on the classic 'Snow White' story, making it an intriguing read for those of us who love a fantastic twist to our fairy tales.
The story is set in the 1950s Massachusetts where Boy Novak, a young woman running from her past, encounters the enchanting widow Arturo Whitman and his stunningly beautiful daughter Snow. Snow is the mirror image of everything Boy is not, and Boy becomes the wicked stepmother in an unexpected fairy tale. When the mysterious Bird is born, reflecting her own ethnicity, the fantasy comes to life.
What readers like: Readers have praised this book for its vivid and distinct characters, its imaginative reframing of the Snow White fairy tale, and its exploration of complex themes of identity, race, and beauty. They also admire Oyeyemi's dreamy, lyrical prose that blends reality and fantasy till you're not even sure which one you're in.
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Daughter of the Forest
by Juliet Marillier
Why Daughter of the Forest is on this list: If you think you have seen it all when it comes to fairy tales and are looking for something fresh yet steeped in traditional Irish folklore, then Daughter of the Forest is the book for you. It blends fantasy and fairy tales in a way that's hard to find.
The book is the first in Marillier's enchanting Sevenwaters Trilogy. It tells the tale of Sorcha, a young girl faced with a cruel curse that can only be broken through complete silence and a terrifying task. At its heart, it's a classic tale of love, loss, and survival against all odds; this book takes you on an emotional roller-coaster that will make you feel like you've stepped straight into a fairy tale world.
What readers like: Readers really enjoy the richly woven narrative filled with magic, mythology, and the ever-present fight between good and evil. Daughter of the Forest is a stay-up-till-2-am kind of book, leaving readers glued with its intricate plot and well-built characters. Not to mention its romance and court intrigue has readers swooning and guessing all the while.
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Graceling
by Kristin Cashore
Why Graceling is on this list: Graceling is essentially a fairy tale for grown-ups. It charms with its magic, enchants with its adventure, and woos with its character depth. Plus, who can resist a good sprinkle of royal politics and mysteries?
The story orbits around Katsa, a young woman graced with an unusual gift – she can kill any man with her bare hands. Set in a realm where certain people are born with an extreme skill known as a Grace, Katsa struggles to control her unwieldy power. As she breaks free from her uncle's control, she stumbles into a web of court secrets and a truth about her own Grace that could change everything.
What readers like: Readers find Katsa an irresistibly strong heroine. Packed with heart-stopping action, intense emotions, and a dash of romance, Graceling is the perfect blend for those who dream about gothic castles, charming princes, and dangerous missions at night.
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Shadow and Bone
by Leigh Bardugo
Why Shadow and Bone is on this list: Shadow and Bone is a real treat for those who love their fairy tales with a healthy helping of dark magic and captivating characters. And let's not forget about the mythical re-imagining of Russia.
It tells the tale of Alina Starkov, a soldier in a war-torn country who discovers a power that might be the key to setting her country free from the darkness. She is thrust into an elite world of magical soldiers known as Grisha, but the glittering life offers its own perils. Trust me, this isn't your grandmother's classic tale. More like, 'Once upon a time... things got pretty intense'.
What readers like: Readers swoon over the richly textured world that Bardugo masterfully creates, precisely detailed down to the last button on a Grisha's kefta. And then there's the Darkling – fantasy's next bad boy obsession. So if you're of the opinion that every fairy tale can do with a bit of brooding hunk, then this is just your cup of tea – dark and a bit mysterious.
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Poison
by Sarah Pinborough
Why Poison is on this list: If you think fairy tales are just about princess kisses and happy endings, Sarah Pinborough's 'Poison' will make you think again. This book is a wickedly fun twist on the well-known story 'Snow White', making it a must-read for any fantasy and fairy tale enthusiast.
'Poison' is about a not-so-innocent Snow White and a queen who is much more than the 'evil' tag often attached to her. The story delves into the murky waters of love, betrayal, and power struggle, with a good dollop of dark humor thrown in. Oh, and there are dwarfs and a prince too, but not as you know them.
What readers like: Readers love Pinborough's witty and inventive re-imagining of a classic story, combining elements of the familiar tale with fresh, darker undertones. They enjoy the rich, grown-up themes woven into the narrative, along with the unpredictable plot twists that keep them hooked till the end.
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Beauty: A Retelling of the Story of Beauty and the Beast
by Robin McKinley
Why Beauty: A Retelling of the Story of Beauty and the Beast is on this list: This brilliant rendition of a classic fairy tale aims straight for the heart of every fantasy lover out there. It displays a beautiful blend of magic, love, and bravery - elements that spruce up any good fantasy story. So, buckle up, because it's not just 'once upon a time', it's a journey of a lifetime.
Robin McKinley, with her vivid storytelling, breathes new life into the iconic 'Beauty and the Beast' tale in this book. We follow heroine, Beauty, who is not your average damsel. She's intelligent, brave, and everything you want in a sassy protagonist. When her father stumbles upon the hidden castle of a beast-like creature, Beauty bravely offers herself in exchange for her father's freedom. No spoilers, but a magical and heartwarming story unfolds from here that makes you question everything you knew about fairy tales.
What readers like: Readers absolutely love McKinley's fresh approach to a timeless tale that doesn't revolve around a helpless princess. Instead, it empowers Beauty, giving her character depth, intelligence, and a will of steel. They love the gripping plot, the surprising twists, and the Beast, who is more than just a beast. In the realms of fantasy and fairy tales, this book offers an enchanting journey that leaves readers yearning for more.
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The Forgotten Beasts of Eld
by Patricia McKillip
Why The Forgotten Beasts of Eld is on this list: If you've got room in your heart for mythical creatures, mystical powers, and a dash of legendary inheritance, well then, welcome to Fairy Tale Central. McKillip's 'The Forgotten Beasts of Eld' is like a layered dessert for fantasy lovers--every bite gets better.
Welcome to the world of Sybel, a young wizard who has secluded herself in a mountain with her motley crew of magical beasts. But her life of tranquility is shaken up when a soldier turns up with an infant for her to rear. McKillip weaves a spellbinding mix of magic, power, love, and truth enveloped in the rich tapestry of Eld Mountain. Will Sybel be able to keep her world and her beasts safe from the gory world of men and their wars?
What readers like: Readers rave about the mesmerizing storyline, magical beasts, McKillip's masterful writing style and the mythical world that is so beautifully depicted. It's like Harry Potter, but less school and more enchanted forest, with power struggles and magical creatures. And let's not overlook Sybel, our silvery-haired heroine who is as mysterious, powerful, and beautiful as the ones she commands.
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