The best 22 Fairy Tale books

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1
Fairy Tale Books: A Kiss in Time by Alex Flinn

A Kiss in Time

Alex Flinn

What's A Kiss in Time about?

A Kiss in Time by Alex Flinn is a modern retelling of the classic Sleeping Beauty fairy tale. When a teenage boy named Jack stumbles upon a hidden castle and wakes up a girl named Talia who has been asleep for 300 years, their lives become intertwined in unexpected ways. As they navigate the challenges of the present and the secrets of the past, they discover the true power of love and redemption.

Who should read A Kiss in Time?

  • Readers who enjoy modern retellings of classic fairytales

  • Teenagers and young adults who are fans of romance and fantasy

  • Those looking for a light and entertaining read with a unique twist on Sleeping Beauty


2
Fairy Tale Books: Beastly by Alex Flinn

Beastly

Alex Flinn

What's Beastly about?

Beastly by Alex Flinn is a modern retelling of the classic fairy tale Beauty and the Beast. Set in New York City, it follows the story of a wealthy and arrogant teenager who is transformed into a hideous beast by a witch. To break the curse, he must find someone who will love him despite his appearance. The book explores themes of inner beauty, love, and redemption.

Who should read Beastly?

  • Readers who enjoy modern retellings of classic fairy tales

  • Young adults looking for a unique take on the "beauty and the beast" story

  • Those interested in themes of self-discovery, empathy, and inner beauty


3
Fairy Tale Books: Brick Fairy Tales by John McCann

Brick Fairy Tales

John McCann

What's Brick Fairy Tales about?

Brick Fairy Tales by John McCann is a delightful twist on classic fairy tales, reimagined with LEGO bricks. From Cinderella to Little Red Riding Hood, this book brings beloved stories to life in a unique and creative way. With stunning visuals and a touch of humor, it's a must-read for both children and adults who appreciate a fresh take on timeless tales.

Who should read Brick Fairy Tales?

  • LEGO enthusiasts who enjoy creative and unique interpretations of classic fairy tales

  • Parents looking for a fun and engaging way to introduce traditional stories to their children

  • Teachers seeking a fresh and visually appealing approach to teaching literature and mythology


What's Confessions of an Ugly Stepsister about?

Confessions of an Ugly Stepsister by Gregory Maguire is a captivating retelling of the classic Cinderella story. Set in 17th century Holland, the book offers a unique perspective on beauty, art, and the true nature of fairy tales. Through rich prose and complex characters, Maguire challenges our perceptions and takes us on a thought-provoking journey into the world of Confessions of an Ugly Stepsister.

Who should read Confessions of an Ugly Stepsister?

  • Readers who enjoy reimagined fairy tales and historical fiction

  • People interested in exploring themes of beauty, identity, and societal expectations

  • Those who appreciate complex and morally ambiguous characters


5
Fairy Tale Books: Deerskin by Robin McKinley

Deerskin

Robin McKinley

What's Deerskin about?

Deerskin is a fantasy novel by Robin McKinley that tells the story of a princess who escapes her abusive father and finds solace in the wilderness. With themes of survival, healing, and self-discovery, the book delves into the protagonist's journey to reclaim her identity and find love and acceptance.

Who should read Deerskin?

  • Readers who enjoy dark and thought-provoking fairy tale retellings

  • Those interested in exploring themes of trauma, healing, and empowerment

  • Individuals who appreciate rich and lyrical writing that immerses them in a vividly imagined world


6
Fairy Tale Books: Princess of Glass by Jessica Day George

Princess of Glass

Jessica Day George

What's Princess of Glass about?

Princess of Glass by Jessica Day George is a captivating retelling of the classic Cinderella story. It follows the adventures of Princess Poppy as she attends a royal ball in a neighboring kingdom. With elements of magic, mystery, and romance, this enchanting book offers a fresh perspective on a beloved fairy tale.

Who should read Princess of Glass?

  • Readers who enjoy fairy tale retellings with a twist

  • Those who appreciate strong and independent female protagonists

  • People who love stories about magic, romance, and adventure


7
Fairy Tale Books: Princess of the Midnight Ball by Jessica Day George

Princess of the Midnight Ball

Jessica Day George

What's Princess of the Midnight Ball about?

Princess of the Midnight Ball by Jessica Day George is a captivating retelling of the classic fairy tale 'The Twelve Dancing Princesses'. With a unique twist and a strong-willed protagonist, it weaves a magical tale of mystery, romance, and adventure as Princess Rose and a young soldier, Galen, work together to uncover the dark secret behind the princesses' nightly escapades.

Who should read Princess of the Midnight Ball?

  • Readers who enjoy reimagined fairy tales

  • Fans of young adult fantasy novels

  • Those who appreciate strong female protagonists


8
Fairy Tale Books: Princess of the Silver Woods by Jessica Day George

Princess of the Silver Woods

Jessica Day George

What's Princess of the Silver Woods about?

Princess of the Silver Woods is a captivating retelling of the classic fairy tale Little Red Riding Hood. In this enchanting story, Princess Petunia finds herself entangled in a web of secrets and danger as she navigates a world filled with cunning wolves and noble bandits. With its blend of adventure, romance, and magic, this book will transport you to a realm where nothing is as it seems.

Who should read Princess of the Silver Woods?

  • Readers who enjoy fairy tale retellings with a strong female protagonist

  • Those who appreciate a mix of adventure, romance, and magic in their books

  • People who are drawn to stories with clever and unexpected plot twists


9
Fairy Tale Books: Princess Academy by Shannon Hale

Princess Academy

Shannon Hale

What's Princess Academy about?

Princess Academy by Shannon Hale is a captivating fantasy novel that follows the story of a young girl named Miri who lives in a small mountain village. When the king's priests announce that the prince's future bride will come from their village, Miri and the other girls are sent to a princess academy to be educated and prepared for the prince's arrival. As Miri learns about friendship, loyalty, and the power of education, she discovers her own inner strength and the potential to change her destiny.

Who should read Princess Academy?

  • Readers who enjoy young adult fiction with strong female protagonists

  • Those interested in stories about overcoming challenges and finding one's own strength

  • People who appreciate well-crafted world-building and immersive storytelling


10
Fairy Tale Books: Rose Daughter by Robin McKinley

Rose Daughter

Robin McKinley

What's Rose Daughter about?

Rose Daughter by Robin McKinley is a captivating retelling of the classic fairy tale Beauty and the Beast. Set in a magical world filled with enchanting roses, the story follows the courageous Beauty as she unravels the mysteries of the Beast's cursed castle. Filled with themes of love, inner beauty, and the power of nature, this novel offers a fresh and enchanting take on a beloved tale.

Who should read Rose Daughter?

  • Readers who enjoy fairy tale retellings with a unique twist

  • Those who appreciate strong, independent female protagonists

  • People who love lush and descriptive writing that brings a magical world to life


11
Fairy Tale Books: Sisters Red by Jackson Pearce

Sisters Red

Jackson Pearce

What's Sisters Red about?

Sisters Red by Jackson Pearce is a gripping retelling of the classic Little Red Riding Hood tale. Filled with action, romance, and fierce sisterly bond, it follows Scarlett and Rosie March as they hunt down the werewolves that prey on young girls. As they navigate their dangerous mission, they uncover secrets about their own past and the true nature of the creatures they hunt.

Who should read Sisters Red?

  • Readers who enjoy dark and gritty retellings of classic fairy tales

  • Those interested in stories about strong female protagonists and sisterhood

  • People who appreciate a blend of fantasy and horror elements in their reading


12
Fairy Tale Books: Spindle's End by Robin McKinley

Spindle's End

Robin McKinley

What's Spindle's End about?

Spindle's End by Robin McKinley is a captivating retelling of the classic fairy tale Sleeping Beauty. Filled with magic, adventure, and strong female characters, the book takes us on a journey to break the curse placed on the princess and uncover the truth about her destiny. It's a beautifully written and enchanting story that will appeal to readers of all ages.

Who should read Spindle's End?

  • Readers who enjoy retellings of classic fairy tales

  • Those who appreciate strong and independent female protagonists

  • People who are drawn to rich and immersive world-building


13
Fairy Tale Books: The Fairy Godmother by Mercedes Lackey

The Fairy Godmother

Mercedes Lackey

What's The Fairy Godmother about?

The Fairy Godmother by Mercedes Lackey is a captivating fantasy novel that reimagines classic fairy tales. When Elena, a young woman facing a bleak future, is offered the chance to become a fairy godmother, she embarks on a journey filled with magic, adventure, and self-discovery. With its unique twists and strong female protagonist, this book is a delightful read for fairy tale enthusiasts.

Who should read The Fairy Godmother?

  • Readers who enjoy reimagined fairy tales with a twist

  • Those looking for a lighthearted and magical escape

  • People who appreciate strong female protagonists and themes of empowerment


14
Fairy Tale Books: The Goose Girl by Shannon Hale

The Goose Girl

Shannon Hale

What's The Goose Girl about?

The Goose Girl by Shannon Hale is a captivating fantasy novel that follows the journey of a young princess named Ani who is betrayed and forced to work as a goose girl in a foreign kingdom. With themes of friendship, courage, and self-discovery, the book weaves a tale of resilience and transformation as Ani navigates the challenges and dangers that come her way.

Who should read The Goose Girl?

  • Readers who enjoy young adult fantasy novels

  • Those who appreciate strong female protagonists

  • People who are interested in fairy tale retellings with a unique twist


15
Fairy Tale Books: The Grimm Legacy by Polly Shulman

The Grimm Legacy

Polly Shulman

What's The Grimm Legacy about?

The Grimm Legacy by Polly Shulman is a captivating fantasy novel that follows a teenage girl named Elizabeth as she starts a new job at the New York Circulating Material Repository. Little does she know, the repository holds magical items from the Grimm Brothers’ fairy tales. When these items start to go missing, Elizabeth and her friends must embark on a thrilling adventure to uncover the truth and protect the repository.

Who should read The Grimm Legacy?

  • Readers who enjoy modern retellings of classic fairy tales

  • Young adults who are looking for a mix of fantasy and mystery

  • Those who appreciate stories with strong, independent female protagonists


16

What's The Storyteller's Daughter about?

The Storyteller's Daughter by Cameron Dokey is a retelling of the classic Arabian Nights tale. It follows the story of Shahrazad, the daughter of a storyteller, who volunteers to marry the cruel king in order to save her kingdom. Through her gift of storytelling, she weaves enchanting tales each night, risking her life in the hope of changing the king's heart and ultimately saving her people.

Who should read The Storyteller's Daughter?

  • Anyone who enjoys retellings of classic fairy tales

  • Readers who appreciate strong and independent female protagonists

  • Those who are drawn to stories with rich cultural and historical elements


17
Fairy Tale Books: The Winter of the Witch by Katherine Arden

The Winter of the Witch

Katherine Arden

What's The Winter of the Witch about?

The Winter of the Witch is the final installment in the magical Winternight Trilogy by Katherine Arden. Set in medieval Russia, the book follows Vasilisa “Vasya” Petrovna as she navigates a world of folklore, dark forces, and political intrigue. With breathtaking prose and a fierce heroine, this novel weaves a captivating tale of bravery and the power of belief.

Who should read The Winter of the Witch?

  • Readers who enjoy historical fantasy with a strong female protagonist

  • Those interested in Russian folklore and mythology

  • People who appreciate lyrical and atmospheric writing


18
Fairy Tale Books: Wildwood Dancing by Juliet Marillier

Wildwood Dancing

Juliet Marillier

What's Wildwood Dancing about?

Wildwood Dancing is a captivating fantasy novel by Juliet Marillier. Set in Transylvania, it tells the story of five sisters who discover a magical portal that leads to a mysterious otherworldly realm. As they embark on nocturnal adventures and encounter strange creatures, they must navigate love, loyalty, and dark forces that threaten their family and the enchanted land they have come to cherish.

Who should read Wildwood Dancing?

  • Readers who enjoy fantasy novels with a touch of romance and adventure

  • Those who appreciate strong female protagonists and captivating storytelling

  • People who are drawn to imaginative and atmospheric settings, such as a magical forest in Transylvania


19
Fairy Tale Books: Splintered by A. G. Howard

Splintered

A. G. Howard

What's Splintered about?

Splintered by A. G. Howard is a captivating reimagining of Lewis Carroll's classic tale, Alice in Wonderland. Filled with dark twists and turns, this book follows Alyssa Gardner as she ventures into a surreal and nightmarish Wonderland to break a curse that has plagued her family for generations. It's a thrilling and imaginative story that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Who should read Splintered?

  • Readers who enjoy dark and whimsical retellings of classic stories
  • Those who appreciate complex and flawed characters, especially strong-willed heroines
  • People with a fascination for intricate and vividly portrayed fantasy worlds

20
Fairy Tale Books: Stars Above by Marissa Meyer

Stars Above

Marissa Meyer

What's Stars Above about?

Stars Above is a collection of enchanting short stories set in the universe of Marissa Meyer's Lunar Chronicles series. Delve into the backstories of beloved characters and uncover untold secrets that will captivate fans and newcomers alike. From Cinder's childhood to Queen Levana's rise to power, this book offers a delightful exploration of the fairy tale retellings.

Who should read Stars Above?

  • Science fiction and fantasy enthusiasts
  • Readers who enjoy reimagined fairy tales
  • Fans of the Lunar Chronicles series looking for additional stories and insights into the characters

21

What's The Bear and the Nightingale about?

The Bear and the Nightingale by Katherine Arden is a captivating fantasy novel set in medieval Russia. It weaves together folklore, history, and magic to tell the story of a young girl named Vasilisa who defies societal expectations and embraces her own unique abilities. As dark forces threaten her village, Vasilisa must uncover her family's secrets and summon her inner strength to protect her home.

Who should read The Bear and the Nightingale?

  • Readers who enjoy atmospheric, atmospheric, and immersive storytelling
  • Those with an interest in Russian folklore and mythology
  • People who appreciate strong, complex female protagonists

22
Fairy Tale Books: The Girl in the Tower by Katherine Arden

The Girl in the Tower

Katherine Arden

What's The Girl in the Tower about?

The Girl in the Tower by Katherine Arden is a captivating fantasy novel set in medieval Russia. It follows the adventures of Vasilisa, a brave and independent young woman who defies societal expectations to pursue a life of freedom and adventure. Filled with magical creatures, rich folklore, and a strong sense of atmosphere, this book is a thrilling and enchanting read.

Who should read The Girl in the Tower?

  • Readers who enjoy fantasy novels with strong female protagonists

  • Those interested in Russian folklore and historical settings

  • People looking for a captivating and atmospheric story with elements of magic and adventure


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 FAQs 

What's the best Fairy Tale book to read?

While choosing just one book about a topic is always tough, many people regard A Kiss in Time as the ultimate read on Fairy Tale.

What are the Top 10 Fairy Tale books?

Blinkist curators have picked the following:
  • A Kiss in Time by Alex Flinn
  • Beastly by Alex Flinn
  • Brick Fairy Tales by John McCann
  • Confessions of an Ugly Stepsister by Gregory Maguire
  • Deerskin by Robin McKinley
  • Princess of Glass by Jessica Day George
  • Princess of the Midnight Ball by Jessica Day George
  • Princess of the Silver Woods by Jessica Day George
  • Princess Academy by Shannon Hale
  • Rose Daughter by Robin McKinley

Who are the top Fairy Tale book authors?

When it comes to Fairy Tale, these are the authors who stand out as some of the most influential:
  • Alex Flinn
  • Alex Flinn
  • John McCann
  • Gregory Maguire
  • Robin McKinley