Hilary McKay's Fairy Tales

Name: William Joseph
Price range: $

by Hilary McKay, illustrated by Sarah Gibb

Interest age: 6 to 8
Reading age: 6 to 8

Published by Macmillan, 2017

Classics
Myths and legends
Short stories

About this book

What happened to Rapunzel after she was freed from the tower? How did Rumpelstiltskin end up striking that notorious deal? And what's the TRUTH about the wolf in Little Red Riding Hood?

This marvellous collection of fairy tales by Hilary McKay aims to answer all of those questions and more. Meticulously researched and beautifully told in a traditional style, this collection doesn't completely reinvent the stories we know and love – but it might make you see them a little bit differently.

As always, the tales come with messages, but they're often surprising ones, exploring the price of freedom or the importance of empathy. But the anthology is never worthy, with Cinderella's grumpy Buttons being a particular delight and plenty of silly humour making The Princess and the Pea a joy to read.

Along with all the tales you'd expect, including Snow White and Hansel and Gretel, McKay has welcomed into the fold some slightly less common stories such as The Twelve Dancing Princesses and The Swan Brothers. With quirky illustrations by Sarah Gibb to add the final sparkle, this is a collection you and your children will treasure, welcoming any chance to dip in for another bit of magic.

About the author

Hilary McKay was born in Boston, Lincolnshire and is the eldest of four girls. From a very early age she read voraciously and grew up in a household of readers.

After reading Botany and Zoology at St. Andrew's University Hilary then went on to work as a biochemist in an Analysis Department. Hilary enjoyed the work but at the same time had a burning desire to write. After the birth of her two children, Hilary wanted to devote more time to bringing up her children and writing so decided to leave her job.

Hilary now lives in a small village in Derbyshire with her family. When not writing Hilary loves walking, reading, and having friends to stay.