A Spindle Splintered

December 1, 2021

Harrow (The Once and Future Witches) gives a feminist twist to the classic Sleeping Beauty tale in this inventive and empowering novella, which is the first in a new series of fairy tale retellings. Zinnia Gray's 21st birthday is bittersweet; she has a rare condition that no one has ever lived with past the age of 22. The clock is ticking, and she is torn between wanting to enjoy her own life and comforting her parents. When her best friend throws her a surprise birthday party in an old prison tower complete with warm beer, roses, and an old spindle, Zinnia is touched. She may be too old for her favorite fairy tale, but what's the harm in a little make-believe? When she jokingly pricks her finger on the spindle, she is transported to another time and place where a young girl's clock is running out just like hers. The two girls decide to take their destinies into their own hands and race against the clock and their curses to make better futures for themselves. Amy Landon brilliantly narrates this inspired retelling, making it exciting and magical. VERDICT This quick listen is a great start to a new series that fans of fairy tales and feminist literature will enjoy.--Erin Cataldi, Johnson Cty. P.L., Franklin, IN

Copyright 2021 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

Amy Landon's lively narration unites present-day Ohio and Perceforest, a fairy-tale realm, in this immersive reimagining of the Sleeping Beauty universe. On her 21st birthday, Zinnia Gray is transported into a world resembling that of her beloved Sleeping Beauty stories. At the same moment, a princess about to prick her finger on a spindle calls for help. Landon's characterizations of Zinnia and Princess Primrose illuminate their strengths and vulnerabilities. The story is told through Zinnia's perspective, and listeners absorb her sense of urgency over her chronic illness and Primrose's fate. Landon also creates haughty, slightly British-sounding royal denizens whose tones contrast with those of Zinnia's parents and stalwart best friend, Charm. A powerful sisterhood anchors this entertaining Fractured Fable production. J.R.T. © AudioFile 2021, Portland, Maine