Review: Bardugo’s spin on classic fairytales are a delight as always.

“The Language of Thorns” includes six short stories that are inspired by myth, folklore, and fairytales. Each are paired with stunning illustrations that really give it a storybook feel. 

In her author’s note, she shares that she was inspired to write this collection by “the note of trouble that I think many of us hear in familiar tales, because we know—even as children—that impossible tasks are on odd way to choose a spouse, that predators come in many guises, that a prince’s whims are often cruel.” She takes bits and pieces from old tales and reshapes them with her dark, gripping, and masterful writing to make us, as readers, question the classics we grew up with. New morals are attributed to each story and I was blown away when I was left to ruminate on them every. Single. Time.  

You do not have to read any of the Grishaverse books to pick this one up, which makes it perfect for new readers hoping to be introduced to Bardugo’s works and fans, like myself, who keep coming back for more!