Frankenstiltskin: Fairy Tales Gone Bad

The second story in a funny, deliciously dark, three-part series of twisted classics, written in verse by former Waterstones Children's Laureate Joseph Coelho and illustrated by Freya Hartas.Joining the family business, animal-lover Bryony proves to be an extraordinary taxidermist, whose tender fingers create displays which comfort, educate and astound. But when Byrony’s proud father boasts of her skill, who should come calling but the secretive King of all Mythica. Locking her away, he gives her three horrible tasks … three impossible tasks! It’s only then that a strange, sinister creature emerges from the shadows of the castle, offering Bryony a helping hand… But at what cost?Frankenstein meets Rumpelstiltkin in this expertly-stitched story about a powerful king, a girl unafraid to stand up for her beliefs, and a monstrous little creature with magic – and greed – in his bones.

The Week Junior

Featured in The Bookseller's October previews. ― The Bookseller I would recommend it to people who like freaky stories and excitement. -- Danny (10 years old) ― Books Up North A wildly wicked twist on the Brothers Grimm classic Rumpelstiltskin, the reader is easily immersed and enthralled in the storyline. ― ReadPlus This is a funny, clever and very enjoyable verse retelling of Rumpelstiltskin. The story takes Rumpelstiltskin back to its original darkly horrifying roots and adds a smart, likeable heroine who saves the day with a story. The lavish illustrations are warm and fun and a nice counterpoint to the gross and gory content. ― BookTrust This is a deliciously dark and funny mash-up of fairy tales. -- .

About the Author

Joseph Coelho was the Waterstones Children’s Laureate 2022–2024, and is an award-winning poet, playwright and writer. In 2024 he won the Yoto Carnegie Medal for Writing for The Boy Lost in the Maze and was awarded an OBE for his services to the arts, to children’s reading and to literature. His first poetry collection, Werewolf Club Rules!, , won the CLPE Children's Poetry Award in 2015, and he has been writing and performing ever since. His picture books include If All the World Were... illustrated by Allison Colpoys and the Luna Loves...series illustrated by Fiona Lumbers. His poetry books for children include Overheard in a Tower Block illustrated by Kate Milner, A Year of Nature Poems illustrated by Kelly Louise Judd, and his novel in verse, The Girl Who Became a Tree. Originally from London, he now lives in Edinburgh. Follow him on X as @JosephACoelho and on Instagram as @josephcoelhoauthor.Freya Hartas is an award-winning illustrator of children's books. She lives in Bristol with her partner and their ancient cat, Katsu. She is the illustrator of the 'Slow Down' series, as well as the 'Fairy Tales Gone Bad' books, Zombierella, Frankenstiltskin and Creeping Beauty, all written by the former Children's Laureate Joseph Coelho. Find her online at freyahartas.co.uk and on Instagram as @FreyaHartas.

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