When Dreams Come True
Classical Fairy Tales and Their Tradition
Yes, there really were two Brothers Grimm, who collected and published fairy tales from across Germany, and a Hans Christian Andersen, who published numerous tales from his home in Denmark, including those still famous today about an ugly duckling and an insomniac princess and a pea. Author Jack Zipes reminds us that fairy tales have been around for centuries, and more modern ones have proven equally popular, such as the Wonderful Wizard of Oz and its numerous sequels. The fairy tale remains alive and well.
Zipes has immersed himself in literary fairy tales over the past 15 years. His book is exceptionally well-researched and contains analyses of literary fairy tales and their authors from 17th century France to the modern day. He traveled across Europe, the Far East and even to America to trace the development and importance of fairy tales to various world societies. Especially enjoyable is the bibliographical information he provides on many of the more famous literary figures who have written in the genre. Zipes succeeds superbly in his efforts and leaves the reader wanting to renew his acquaintanceship with both the “classic” fairy tales and those which are not as well known today.
From Puss-In-Boots to Pinnochio, from The Arabian Nights to Oscar Wilde’s The Happy Prince, Mr. Zipes’ scholarly material will satisfy anyone with an interest in fairy tales and their development over the centuries.
Reviewed by
Alan J. Couture
Disclosure: This article is not an endorsement, but a review. The publisher of this book provided free copies of the book to have their book reviewed by a professional reviewer. No fee was paid by the publisher for this review. Foreword Reviews only recommends books that we love. Foreword Magazine, Inc. is disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
