Samuel DenHartog's Blog: The Road to 1,440 - Posts Tagged "brothers-grimm"

Good day, fellow book adventurers!

I'm thrilled to share the latest gem in my beloved "Grimm Imagination" series – "Underneath the Mulberry Tree." I enjoy writing the books in this series as I expand short fairy tales into much larger stories. This one is a little darker than the first four books and a little different with the included poetry. I hope you all enjoy reading it as much as I did writing it.

Imagine a quaint, peaceful village, where lies a tree as old as time itself – the legendary mulberry tree. This isn't just any tree; it's the heart of our new spellbinding adventure. Our tale revolves around a family where love and envy clash, leading to a journey filled with miraculous twists and turns. From a grieving father to a stepmother with secrets and children caught in a web of magical destiny, each character will take you on an emotional rollercoaster.

But wait, there's more! What makes "Underneath the Mulberry Tree" unique is its haunting poetry and riveting narrative blend. It's like watching a beautiful dance of words come alive off the pages. Expect to be swept away by a story that intertwines dark plots, magical transformations, and the undeniable power of innocence. And let's not forget the heart of our story – the mulberry tree, standing as a symbol of hope, resilience, and the magic hidden in plain sight.

It's a tale that promises to entertain and resonate with your soul. So grab your favorite cup of tea, snuggle up in your reading nook, and prepare to be mesmerized by "Underneath the Mulberry Tree." Trust me, this is one journey through the pages you'll cherish long after you turn the last page.

Here's to magical discoveries and unforgettable tales!
Samuel DenHartog

Hey there, romance lovers!

I'm hopping with excitement to unveil the latest treasure in my "Grimm Imagination" series – "Curse of the Frog King." Crafting this tale has been an absolute whirlwind of fantasy and fun, and I can't wait for you all to leap into this adventure with me. Think of it as a hop, skip, and a jump into a world where curses come with a croak, and princes have a bit more... amphibian flair.

Get ready to jump once again into the vibrant and magical kingdom of Eldoria, where our hero, Prince Alaric, finds himself in a rather ribbit-ing predicament. That's right, our dashing prince turns into a frog! Talk about a drastic lifestyle change. Follow Alaric's journey as he hops through challenges, meets maidens (who aren't exactly queuing up to kiss a frog, mind you), and seeks a way to break the enchantment that's turned his royal life topsy-turvy.

But "Curse of the Frog King" isn't just about a prince trying to regain his human swagger. It's a tale sprinkled with humor, heart, and just a tad of pond slime. You'll giggle, you'll gasp, and you might even find yourself rooting for a certain charming amphibian. And let's face it, who doesn't love a story where kisses can break spells, and true love is more than skin deep?

So, grab your lily pad, settle in by your favorite pond, and get ready for a story that's bound to leap off the pages and into your heart. "Curse of the Frog King" promises enchantment, laughter, and a reminder that sometimes, the best adventures begin with just a little leap of faith.

Here's to magical leaps and un-frog-gettable journeys!
Samuel DenHartog

Ahoy, adventurous souls and lovers of lore!

Get ready to cast your net into the enchanting seas of my "Grimm Imagination" series with the latest catch, "Flounder, Flounder, In the Sea." Reeling this story in was a deep dive into the mystical waves of fantasy and folklore, and I'm bubbling with excitement for you to plunge into this fishy tale with me. Imagine a voyage where wishes are fishes, and one particularly talkative flounder might just be the key to a sea of dreams.

Embark on an unforgettable journey to Misthaven, a quaint fishing village nestled on the shores of the Sea of Azura, within the realm of Eldoria. Our protagonist, Jorah, is a simple fisherman who finds joy in the little things—like the calm of the sea and the thrill of the catch. But beneath the tranquil tides, his wife, Elise, harbors a storm of aspirations that could capsize their simple life. When he hooks a flounder with the power to grant wishes, their life takes a swashbuckling turn into uncharted waters. Through Jorah and Elise's adventures, we navigate the choppy seas of ambition, the whirlpools of greed, and the tranquil bays of simplicity.

So, ready your fishing rods, and prepare for a voyage where the horizon is lined with the glimmer of wishes and the depths hold reflections of our deepest desires. "Flounder, Flounder, In the Sea" is an invitation to explore the vast oceans of imagination and discover that sometimes, the most magical adventures are found not in the clamor for more, but in the quiet waters of gratitude and love.

Here's to the one that got away!
Samuel DenHartog

Ahoy, fellow adventurers and dreamers!

Dive into the latest installment of my "Grimm Imagination" series with "The Singing, Soaring Swan," where the whisper of feathers on the wind carries more than just the promise of flight — it sings of destiny, love, and courage that soars beyond the imaginable. As the pages turn, be prepared to embark on a journey that flutters and flies through the very essence of enchantment and into the heart of what it means to be truly brave.

In this tale, we follow the youngest daughter of a devoted father, a girl whose heart's desire leads her family into a realm of magic and mystery. Amidst the backdrop of a kingdom where the impossible blooms with the dawn, a single wish for a singing, soaring swan sets the stage for a saga of spellbinding adventure. This story is a testament to the strength that lies in kindness, the power of a promise, and the endless wonders that unfold when the boundless spirit of a young woman takes flight against a curse that seeks to keep her grounded.

So, lace up your boots, spread your wings, and join me on an expedition to a world where swans sing melodies of magic and lions guard secrets deep within enchanted forests. Here's to finding the magic that lurks in the heart, to the melodies that guide us through the darkness, and to the stories that make us believe in the impossible.

With a quill dipped in starlight,
Samuel DenHartog

Greetings, intrepid explorers of the page!

Prepare to stitch your way into the heart of adventure with the newest gem in my "Grimm Imagination" series, "A Tiny Little Tailor." This tale is not just about the cut of the cloth but the courage that's woven into the very fabric of our hero's being. As you unfurl the pages, get ready to tread a path that zigzags through danger, dances with dragons, and proves that the mightiest hero need not be in the tallest package.

In this enchanting narrative, we meet a very short tailor whose sharp wit is his greatest weapon against thieves, giants, sorcerers, and even dragons. This diminutive hero teaches us that bravery knows no bounds and that true strength lies in the cleverness of one's mind and the boldness of one's heart. From tricking thieving bandits to capturing mythical beasts and outsmarting a vengeful sorcerer, our tailor stitches together a tale of adventure that will leave you spellbound.

So, grab your needle and thread, for we're about to weave through a tapestry of trials and triumphs where magic mirrors reveal more than just reflections and where a tiny tailor ascends to become a king revered not for the size of his stature but for the vastness of his heart and the sharpness of his intellect.

From the fabric of my imagination,
Samuel DenHartog

Hey there, fellow fairy tale aficionados and fantasy lovers!

I have finally wrapped up the ninth book in my “Grimm Imagination” series. This project has been my love letter to the timeless tales of the Brothers Grimm, hopefully with twists and turns that only I could dream up. It's about paying homage to the timeless tales that have influenced countless readers, writers, and dreamers, including myself. But it's also about pushing boundaries, exploring the "what ifs," and adding layers of complexity to stories that were surprisingly simple. It is a journey that I have enjoyed immensely. These 9 books have become among my own personal favorites of all the books I have written, each story turning out to be more magical than I ever imagined, even as I started the first chapter of each one.

The original collection of Brothers Grimm Fairy Tales is a treasure trove of inspiration, with stories ranging from household names to obscure gems that rarely see the light of day. For those who might need a little refresher, Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm, aka the Brothers Grimm, were the dynamic duo behind the iconic "Children's and Household Tales." First hitting the shelves in 1812, with 86 tales, their collection underwent several makeovers, eventually amassing around 210 tales by 1857. Their tales, many of which have become staples in literature, film, and popular culture around the world, include "Cinderella," "Snow White," "Little Red Riding Hood," "Rapunzel," "Hansel and Gretel," "Sleeping Beauty," and "Rumpelstiltskin." These stories have sparked imaginations across generations!

Imagine taking those fantastical elements we all know and love and weaving them into a tapestry of intricate world-building and unprecedented depth. That's what I've aimed to do as I crafted my series of 9 tales, each one a unique exploration of the Grimm legacy through a modern lens. Each tale in my series is a standalone marvel, yet many are intricately connected to the others through a shared universe that's as vast as it is vibrant. Think of it as the Grimm multiverse, where characters, settings, and magical elements are part of a larger, interwoven narrative.

Why only 9 tales, you ask? Well, with the immense wealth of narratives the Grimms have blessed us with, the choice was agony! I limited it to 9 as I have other things in my mind and other stories I wish to tell. I also wanted to pick 9 tales that were not quite as well-known as the most popular ones I mentioned above. But fear not! While I currently only plan on these nine tales, the sheer richness and variety of the Grimm catalog might tempt me back for more adventures in the future. Who knows what other stories are waiting to be retold with a twist of imagination?

So, I invite you to dive into my “Grimm Imagination” series, exploring the depths of fantasy and discovering what happens when the old meets the new, the traditional dances with the inventive, and the Grimm legacy is reborn through a lens of boundless creativity.

Until next time, let your imagination run wild!

Cheers,
Samuel DenHartog

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CPYC42J5?

Dear Fairy Tale Loves,

I am thrilled to announce the release of my latest book, "The Journey of Hansel and Gretel." This captivating tale takes you deep into the heart of an ancient forest, where every twist and turn brings new challenges and enchanting surprises. Inspired by the timeless Brothers Grimm story, this retelling adds layers of adventure and magic that will captivate readers of all ages.

Hansel and Gretel's journey begins with a struggle for survival, abandoned in the forest by their desperate parents. From the sinister allure of the gingerbread house to encounters with cunning foes and mystical creatures, their resilience and courage are tested at every step. This story is about the profound bond between siblings who, through their unwavering hope, working together and thinking ahead, can overcome even the greatest of obstacles.

In writing "The Journey of Hansel and Gretel," I wanted to create a narrative that balances the familiarity of the classic tale with fresh, thrilling adventures. I invite you to join Hansel and Gretel as they navigate through enchanting landscapes, confront malevolent forces, and uncover hidden treasures. Their journey is a testament to bravery, ingenuity, and the unbreakable bond of family. I hope this book brings as much joy and excitement to you as it did to me in creating it.

Thank you for your support, and happy reading!

Enjoying the adventure,
Samuel DenHartog

For as long as I can remember, I have been drawn to old stories, the kind that used to be passed from mouth to ear across generations, worn smooth with use like a favorite stone in the hand. These tales have outlived their tellers, stretching across continents and centuries, shaped by landscape, belief, struggle, and joy. What I do now with the Fables Anthologies series is, at its heart, an act of care. I take these stories from their dusty corners, from public domain collections, forgotten folktale volumes, and scattered translations, and I restore them for modern readers.

Some call what I do writing, but I think of it more as restoration. Much like someone working in a museum, I do not paint over what is already there. I clean it, I repair the cracks, and I sometimes touch up the fading color so the original shape and soul of the piece can be seen more clearly. I want young readers, and grown ones too, to see the full beauty of these stories as they were meant to be experienced, not buried under archaic phrasing or obscure references. My job is not to invent the tale but to make it shine again.

Stories by Culture, Not by Convenience

Each book in the Fables Anthologies series focuses on the stories of one culture. That is a key part of my approach. Unlike older collections that mix together tales from many places, I believe it is important for readers to know where a story comes from. Cultural context matters. It shapes the rhythm of a tale, the nature of its humor, the challenges its characters face, and the wisdom it tries to pass down. When a reader opens Fables from Nigeria, Fables from Japan, or Fables from Ireland, I want them to step into that world fully and respectfully.

Some books, like Fables from Nigeria or Fables from Simla, draw mostly from a single source or collector, carefully reworking the material into stories today’s readers can enjoy. Others, such as Fables from the Philippines or Fables from Wales, are assembled from multiple translations, folk collections, and retellings, requiring research, comparison, and thoughtful reconstruction. I always name my references at the start of each book, both out of respect and so that readers can explore the sources further if they wish. I am not the author of these stories in the traditional sense, and I never claim to be. What I do is act as a bridge between old text and new eyes.

Modern Retellings with Honest Roots

The stories themselves are traditional, but the way I present them is modern. I rewrite each tale using language that today’s children can follow with ease. If there are words or concepts that might feel unfamiliar, I explain them within the flow of the story itself, in a way that feels natural and welcoming. I do not shy away from keeping cultural terms or important original elements, but I give them context so that the magic is not lost in confusion.

I also add dialogue to help bring characters to life. Where the original tale might summarize a dramatic moment in just a line, I expand it, letting readers linger in the moment, hear the voice of a clever fox or a frightened child, and feel the emotional pull of a difficult decision. These small touches do not change the story’s heart, but they make it beat more clearly for a modern reader.

Following in the Footsteps of Lang and the Grimms

I see my work in the tradition of collectors like Andrew Lang and the Brothers Grimm . Lang’s Fairy Books gathered stories from around the world, adapting them for English-speaking readers in the late 19th century. His versions were shaped by his era and his audience, and while he sometimes blurred the origin of the tales, his work helped preserve them in a way that brought wonder to generations.

The Brothers Grimm, too, were not originators of the stories they are famous for. They gathered, edited, and reshaped German and European folktales, changing them over the years to suit their goals and audiences. Like them, I recognize the value of shaping a story so that it can survive. Unlike them, I aim to keep each culture’s tales clearly labeled and individually celebrated.

Books like Fables from South Africa, Fables from Czech, Fables from Blackfeet, and Fables from Turkey are part of this mission. These are not just stories for children. They are cultural treasures that deserve thoughtful presentation, clear language, and just enough creative guidance to make them sing again.

Why It Matters

What drives me is not nostalgia or academic interest alone. It is the belief that these stories matter. They carry within them the dreams and fears of past generations, the wisdom of elders, the humor of farmers, the songs of wanderers, and the quiet strength of those who survived hard winters and deep sorrows. To lose these stories to time or to language barriers would be a tragedy. To restore them, to make them live again for readers today, is a kind of quiet triumph.

The Fables Anthologies are my offering to that effort. They are meant to be read aloud, to be shared, to be loved. They are meant to stir curiosity, invite laughter, and pass on something precious. In every tale I retell, I try to honor the voices that came before me and the young minds who will carry those voices into the future.

This is not new work, but it is necessary work. And it is work I am proud to do.

Keeping Them Accessible

To make these stories as accessible as possible, I have priced all the Kindle eBooks in this series at $0.99. I want anyone, anywhere, to be able to read and enjoy these tales without cost being a barrier. These stories belong to the world, and my goal is simply to help them find their way into new hands and new hearts.

Fairy tales were never meant to be harmless. They were warnings, maps of pain, and blueprints for survival. In this book, readers return to the ash-covered bones of one of the oldest and most unsettling stories, where magic does not sing, it watches, waits, and remembers. The beauty is sharp, the dresses are not woven with joy but with grief, and every gift from the grave demands something in return.

Set in a world of birds that do not chirp but choose justice, and trees that do more than grow, this novel unearths the raw nerves of a girl’s survival in a house built on cruelty. You’ll find no fairy godmother here, only the grave of a mother who listens more closely in death than anyone did in life. It is not kindness that saves the heroine, but persistence. Not charm, but endurance. Each chapter digs deeper into the soil of mourning and transformation, revealing roots that reach far beyond childhood tales.

The horror here is slow and elegant. It creeps in through daily humiliations, glints in the stepmother’s calculated smile, and lands sharp with the crunch of a glass slipper soaked in blood. The prince is not a savior, the palace is not safe, and the birds do not forget. There is justice, but it is not gentle. What you’re left with is not a happily-ever-after, but something older and far more honest.

This is a story about pain that refuses to stay buried, about love that is twisted by grief, and about a girl who does not forgive. She does not need to. If you're ready for a fairytale that remembers its own teeth, step carefully into "Cinderella and the Roots."

When I first began gathering these stories, I was struck by how many of them felt like they had been with me all along. Hansel and Gretel, with its gingerbread house deep in the woods, or Snow White, with the poisoned apple and the seven dwarfs, are tales so woven into our culture that they almost live in memory before we even hear them. Bringing them together again reminded me how powerful the imagery is, and how these German tales have shaped the idea of fairy tales around the world.

At the same time, there is so much more to discover beyond the famous names. The Twelve Dancing Princesses with its underground palace, The Six Swans with its quiet devotion, and The Goose Girl with its tale of betrayal and justice, all carry a richness that deserves to be remembered. Reading them alongside the better-known stories gives a sense of the wide tapestry of imagination that the Brothers Grimm collected. Each tale feels both rustic and magical, grounded in forests, cottages, and villages yet glowing with enchantment.

What I especially love is the variety of moods. Some stories sparkle with humor, like The Golden Goose with its parade of people stuck together, or Hans in Luck, where a boy keeps trading away his fortune and insists he is happier each time. Others are darker, like The Juniper Tree or The Robber Bridegroom, with their grim turns and haunting images. That mixture of light and shadow makes the whole collection feel alive, like walking through a forest where every path holds something different.

This book is a gathering of fourty-five tales, chosen to give both the comfort of the classics and the surprise of hidden gems. Some will feel like meeting an old friend, while others may come as a first encounter with a story just as worthy of being cherished. Together, they show why German folklore has captured hearts for centuries and why these tales remain as enchanting today as when they were first told. "Fables from Germany" is an invitation to wander into those woods again and see what you find.