A Tale Dark & Grimm

by Adam Gidwitz
Once I started reading A Tale Dark & Grimm, I had trouble putting it down. Gidwitz gives us the darkest, grimmest versions of several Grimm fairy tales. Some are well-known and others are pretty obscure. The main characters are Hansel and Gretel, who play a role in each tale. But don’t look for happy endings for these stories–things seem to go from bad to worse for the siblings. Gidwitz is a talented storyteller, with great descriptions of the action and interesting symbolism for adult readers. Even the German words sprinkled through the stories have a hidden meaning. The best part is Gidwitz’s running commentary on the action. The stories are violent, but also very funny and ultimately redeeming. It’s a good read for upper elementary students. I’m looking forward to seeing what Gidwitz writes next!
reviewed by Victoria

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