Aptly timed for the 200th Anniversary of the first edition of the Grimm's Brothers Tales, Philip Pullman (author of His Dark Materials!!) has pull together fifty stories from these tales into a collection. Some of these stories are more popular, such as: "Cinderella", "The Frog Prince", and "Briar Rose". However, the majority of the stories are lesser known. Pullman acknowledges that fairy tales have changed throughout the years. Specifically, the Grimm's tales have suffered a castration during the many editions that have been released.

In these tales, Pullman has brought together the best parts of all iterations of the tales. At the end of each story, he acknowledges any changes that may have been made as well as listing the ways in which the Grimm's brothers came to know the tale.

I would love to pretend to that I knew these tales from my serious, scholarly fairy tale reading, but in reality I knew them from a fantastic show on Nickelodeon in the early 90's called "Grimm's Fairy Tale Classics". This collection was filled with nostalgic moments for me.

This was such a pleasurable read for a fairy-tale-junkie like myself. I suggest that this book should be enjoyed slowly, just a nibble or two before bed.

Favorite quote … "He ordered three iron bands to put around his heart to stop it bursting with grief."

Fairy Tales From the Brother's Grimm is currently available at your local bookstore.