Fairytale retellings in YA literature have always been one of my favorites, and it’s cool to see how they’ve grown with cultural shifts and emerging themes. Today I’ll dive into some trends likely to shape these popular stories’ future.
One of the most significant cultural shifts is the increased focus on diversity. Unlike recent DEI initiatives, this has not felt forced or like it pays lip service to a trendy idea. It feels like a natural outgrowth and reflection of society. For instance, Cinderella Is Dead by Kalynn Bayron reimagines the classic tale in a world where Cinderella’s story is a cautionary tale for oppressed women. Such tales provide representation and bring fresh perspectives to timeless narratives.
YA literature is increasingly delving into the psychological aspects of characters, and fairytale retellings are no exception. Books that explore the inner workings of beloved characters can add depth to the stories. For example, Queen of Snow by Laura Byron explores the psyche of the Snow Queen, providing a nuanced portrayal of her motives and struggles.
Fairytales have often featured clear-cut good and evil characters, but modern retellings are embracing moral ambiguity and complex villains. Heartless by Marissa Meyer, which tells the backstory of the Queen of Hearts from Alice in Wonderland, portrays her as a sympathetic character with understandable motives (an idea I wish I had thought of). This trend of complex, multifaceted characters can make for compelling storytelling.
With a growing interest in global cultures, fairytale retellings are increasingly drawing from non-Western sources. Books like The Wrath and the Dawn by Renée Ahdieh, inspired by the Arabian Nights, bring rich, diverse storytelling traditions to YA literature. This trend not only introduces readers to new narratives but also broadens the cultural horizons of the genre.
There’s also a trend towards rediscovering and retelling lesser-known fairytales. These obscure stories can provide a wealth of untapped material for fresh, innovative retellings. Imagine a retelling of East of the Sun and West of the Moon, a lesser-known Scandinavian fairytale, set in a dystopian future. Such stories can captivate readers with their novelty and depth.
Fairytale retellings in YA literature are continually evolving. Looking to the future, it’s exciting to imagine how these trends will continue to transform the fairytales we know and love. Please share your thoughts and suggestions for future adaptations. Let’s keep the conversation going and celebrate the ever-evolving world of fairytale retellings!
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