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Carthick's Unfairy Tales #1
Carthick's Unfairy Tales
An evil dragon. A damsel in distress. A concerned father seeking a savior. A hero galloping off to the rescue – a knight in shining armor. Now THAT is stuff of fairy tales.
But what if the father’s real concern is for the dragon’s hoard; What if the damsel’s reason of distress is the marriage proposal by her pompous savior; and what if the story is told by the horse who bears not only the overweight knight but also his heavy, shining armor all the way to the dragon’s lair and back, facing certain death in the process?
What if there was more – much more – to all your favourite fairy tales than meets the eye?
This book chronicles not one but seven such unfairy tales – tales told by undead horsemen and living cities. Tales of mistreated hobgoblins and misunderstood magicians. Tales of disagreeable frogs and distressed mice. And bears baring their souls. Once you read these stories, you will never be able to look at a fairy tale the same way ever again.
But what if the father’s real concern is for the dragon’s hoard; What if the damsel’s reason of distress is the marriage proposal by her pompous savior; and what if the story is told by the horse who bears not only the overweight knight but also his heavy, shining armor all the way to the dragon’s lair and back, facing certain death in the process?
What if there was more – much more – to all your favourite fairy tales than meets the eye?
This book chronicles not one but seven such unfairy tales – tales told by undead horsemen and living cities. Tales of mistreated hobgoblins and misunderstood magicians. Tales of disagreeable frogs and distressed mice. And bears baring their souls. Once you read these stories, you will never be able to look at a fairy tale the same way ever again.
134 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 5, 2018
12 people are currently reading
430 people want to read
About the author
T.F. Carthick
7 books58 followersT F Carthick is a Bangalore-based writer and blogger who has been blogging since 2008. He is an avid reader of Children’s Fiction, Science-fiction and Fantasy. Enid Blyton, J K Rowling, Isaac Asimov, Frank Herbert, Neil Gaiman and Douglas Adams are some of his favorite authors. His paranormal thriller ‘Bellary’ was one of the three stories in the book Sirens Spell Danger, published in 2013. Six of his stories have featured in multi-author anthologies and literary magazines.
He has written over 50 short stories, many of which can be read for free on his blog www.karthikl.com.
He is an Engineer and MBA from India’s premier institutes IIT, Madras and IIM, Ahmedabad and currently works as an Analytics and Artificial Intelligence Consultant at one of the world’s leading Consulting Firms.
His Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/threerealmso...
His Twitter Handle - @TF_Carthick
He has written over 50 short stories, many of which can be read for free on his blog www.karthikl.com.
He is an Engineer and MBA from India’s premier institutes IIT, Madras and IIM, Ahmedabad and currently works as an Analytics and Artificial Intelligence Consultant at one of the world’s leading Consulting Firms.
His Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/threerealmso...
His Twitter Handle - @TF_Carthick
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
May 27, 2018
“You think fairy tales are only for girls? Here's a hint - ask yourself who wrote them. I assure you, it wasn't just the women. It's the great male fantasy - all it takes is one dance to know that she's the one. All it takes is the sound of her song from the tower, or a look at her sleeping face. And right away you know - this is the girl in your head, sleeping or dancing or singing in front of you. Yes, girls want their princes, but boys want their princesses just as much. And they don't want a very long courtships. They want to know immediately.”
― David Levithan, Dash & Lily's Book of Dares
As the quote suggest fairy tales are not so innocent after all. These have implied sinister meanings below the pretty façade. Carthick tried to bring to surface these implied meanings in his book.
This book is an attempt to see the classic tales from the hidden perspective. Then they are not so fairy. They become unfairy and that’s why the name. Like the tale of three bears is told from the perspective of bear. The part where the bear and girl see each other is hilarious. To tell the truth why the girl shouts. It should be the other way around. Then in the end the message is that humans are invading animal’s spaces.
Similarly, Cinderella’s tale brings forth the hypocrisy of society. Every girl wants to marry a prince and forgets about his pals as soon as she goes to palace.
“The frog who would be king” is the story of a princess who does not want to marry him even when he becomes a handsome price. She somehow gets rid of him but that is not the end of her ordeal. Or is it? Read to find out.
The book is dark satire/ comedy and not easy to read. This is a strong statement against the hypocrisy of society. I will sign off with this quote of Taylor Swift:
“When I was a little girl I used to read fairy tales. In fairy tales you meet Prince Charming and he's everything you ever wanted. In fairy tales the bad guy is very easy to spot. The bad guy is always wearing a black cape so you always know who he is. Then you grow up and you realize that Prince Charming is not as easy to find as you thought. You realize the bad guy is not wearing a black cape and he's not easy to spot; he's really funny, and he makes you laugh, and he has perfect hair.”
― David Levithan, Dash & Lily's Book of Dares
As the quote suggest fairy tales are not so innocent after all. These have implied sinister meanings below the pretty façade. Carthick tried to bring to surface these implied meanings in his book.
This book is an attempt to see the classic tales from the hidden perspective. Then they are not so fairy. They become unfairy and that’s why the name. Like the tale of three bears is told from the perspective of bear. The part where the bear and girl see each other is hilarious. To tell the truth why the girl shouts. It should be the other way around. Then in the end the message is that humans are invading animal’s spaces.
Similarly, Cinderella’s tale brings forth the hypocrisy of society. Every girl wants to marry a prince and forgets about his pals as soon as she goes to palace.
“The frog who would be king” is the story of a princess who does not want to marry him even when he becomes a handsome price. She somehow gets rid of him but that is not the end of her ordeal. Or is it? Read to find out.
The book is dark satire/ comedy and not easy to read. This is a strong statement against the hypocrisy of society. I will sign off with this quote of Taylor Swift:
“When I was a little girl I used to read fairy tales. In fairy tales you meet Prince Charming and he's everything you ever wanted. In fairy tales the bad guy is very easy to spot. The bad guy is always wearing a black cape so you always know who he is. Then you grow up and you realize that Prince Charming is not as easy to find as you thought. You realize the bad guy is not wearing a black cape and he's not easy to spot; he's really funny, and he makes you laugh, and he has perfect hair.”
January 26, 2018
When I discovered that T. F. Carthick's first book 'Unfairy Tales' was coming out this month, I couldn't wait to get it and read it.
'Unfairy Tales' is a collection of seven fairy tales. All the tales are famous ones which most of us have read. But that is not the end of the story. Because there is more to them than meets the eye. The stories are all told from an unusual, unexpected point of view. Sometimes, the person, who we think is the bad person in the original fairytale, tells the story. We see the events unfolding in a totally unexpected way from this unusual point of view, that we start questioning whether our original understanding of the fairytale is correct. Sometimes the narrator of the story is a totally unexpected character and in one story the city is the narrator. That point of view is fascinating, I think. Some of the stories have different endings from the original fairytales, while others have the same endings as the originals, but because we see the story from a new, novel point of view, the ending looks very different. It is like looking at a familiar building from different angles and from different levels of elevation - the same thing unfolds itself in new perspectives, and reveals hidden depths of beauty.
Throughout the book, the author pays homage to literary masters like Charles Dickens and Douglas Adams and each of the story titles is a homage, in itself, to a famous literary work. The stories are also filled with subtext which allude to specific scenes or lines or inferences in other literary texts. It is fun to spot these subtexts. Sometimes the narrator of a fairytale steps a little bit outside the specific events and ventures into the general, and offers commentary on the human condition, on the position of women in relation to men, on the relationship between humans and animals and the environment, on the evolution of human history, on imperialism and colonization, and sometimes even on contemporary affairs. One of my favourite passages, from this perspective, was this one :
"This is always the way of men. Dire situations call for the best of men at the helm. But instead, when things turn bad, people more often than not end up choosing the worst among them to lead. It would be years before the people would realize the disastrous consequences of choosing one such..."
Another of my favourite passages was this one :
"Isn't this usually the way with you humans? If you stumble upon something, you obviously have to break in. Then you will take what you like. After that you will throw out the original inhabitants and erect fences to keep them out."
The cover art is by Rashmi Prabhu and it is in vivid colour and depicts the main elements of the featured fairytales beautifully. I loved Rashmi Prabhu's cover art and colourplates in Ushasi Sen Basu 's delightful novel 'Kathputli', and it appears that with each new book her artwork is growing from strength to strength.
So, that's it. This is my sufficiently vague review of 'Unfairy Tales' - I haven't revealed the name of any story or the name of any narrator, haven't talked about the endings which are surprising and different, and haven't talked about specific literary allusions. These are not for me to reveal. These are for you to read and find out.
I loved 'Unfairy Tales'. I think whether one is a child or a teenager or a grown up, one will enjoy it in different ways. I loved the unusual points of view, the sometimes surprising endings, the literary allusions, the homage to the masters, the commentary on the human condition - together they created magic. T. F. Carthick has followed in the long tradition of Angela Carter and John Connolly and Michael Cunningham and composed a book which offers a fresh new perspective on some of our favourite fairytales. It is a wonderful debut. I can't wait to find out what he comes up with next.
Have you read 'Unfairy Tales'? What do you think about it?
'Unfairy Tales' is a collection of seven fairy tales. All the tales are famous ones which most of us have read. But that is not the end of the story. Because there is more to them than meets the eye. The stories are all told from an unusual, unexpected point of view. Sometimes, the person, who we think is the bad person in the original fairytale, tells the story. We see the events unfolding in a totally unexpected way from this unusual point of view, that we start questioning whether our original understanding of the fairytale is correct. Sometimes the narrator of the story is a totally unexpected character and in one story the city is the narrator. That point of view is fascinating, I think. Some of the stories have different endings from the original fairytales, while others have the same endings as the originals, but because we see the story from a new, novel point of view, the ending looks very different. It is like looking at a familiar building from different angles and from different levels of elevation - the same thing unfolds itself in new perspectives, and reveals hidden depths of beauty.
Throughout the book, the author pays homage to literary masters like Charles Dickens and Douglas Adams and each of the story titles is a homage, in itself, to a famous literary work. The stories are also filled with subtext which allude to specific scenes or lines or inferences in other literary texts. It is fun to spot these subtexts. Sometimes the narrator of a fairytale steps a little bit outside the specific events and ventures into the general, and offers commentary on the human condition, on the position of women in relation to men, on the relationship between humans and animals and the environment, on the evolution of human history, on imperialism and colonization, and sometimes even on contemporary affairs. One of my favourite passages, from this perspective, was this one :
"This is always the way of men. Dire situations call for the best of men at the helm. But instead, when things turn bad, people more often than not end up choosing the worst among them to lead. It would be years before the people would realize the disastrous consequences of choosing one such..."
Another of my favourite passages was this one :
"Isn't this usually the way with you humans? If you stumble upon something, you obviously have to break in. Then you will take what you like. After that you will throw out the original inhabitants and erect fences to keep them out."
The cover art is by Rashmi Prabhu and it is in vivid colour and depicts the main elements of the featured fairytales beautifully. I loved Rashmi Prabhu's cover art and colourplates in Ushasi Sen Basu 's delightful novel 'Kathputli', and it appears that with each new book her artwork is growing from strength to strength.
So, that's it. This is my sufficiently vague review of 'Unfairy Tales' - I haven't revealed the name of any story or the name of any narrator, haven't talked about the endings which are surprising and different, and haven't talked about specific literary allusions. These are not for me to reveal. These are for you to read and find out.
I loved 'Unfairy Tales'. I think whether one is a child or a teenager or a grown up, one will enjoy it in different ways. I loved the unusual points of view, the sometimes surprising endings, the literary allusions, the homage to the masters, the commentary on the human condition - together they created magic. T. F. Carthick has followed in the long tradition of Angela Carter and John Connolly and Michael Cunningham and composed a book which offers a fresh new perspective on some of our favourite fairytales. It is a wonderful debut. I can't wait to find out what he comes up with next.
Have you read 'Unfairy Tales'? What do you think about it?
January 5, 2018
Carthick has the unique talent to look upon the familiar from a strange vantage point and make it appear funny and wonderful. Here he applies it to well-known fairy tales to make them seem hilarious and fascinating. Be warned! If reading this book permanently skews the way you see the world, I am not to be held responsible.
January 20, 2018
'I have always found men more fascinating than mice'.... Thus starts Carthick's first Unfairy Tale, "Of Mice and Horses".
Moving far away from the age-old clichés, Carthick's Unfairy Tales present a fresh, alternate and intriguing take on 7 different fairy tales - Cinderella, The Frog Prince, Goldilocks, The Pied Piper, Hansel and Gretel, Jack and the beanstalk and Rumplestiltskin.
The titles of the seven stories are inspired by titles of classic books. The author's ability to be lucid and philosophical at the same time is worth a mention here. There are many musings in there, there is a whole lot of satire, the humor is well placed and top notch, the writing is fluid and it absolutely doesn't feel like this is the first book of the author. He has mastered the craft quite thoroughly and his punches are so brilliantly put. I love straight-faced humor. I love humor which doesn't belittle. Satire is a weapon of the powerless. Like Terry Pratchett says
"Satire is meant to ridicule power. If you are laughing at people who are hurting, it's not satire, it's bullying."
The author, in this case, has mocked his way through topics like misogyny/patriarchy, hunger, greed, human race and on his way has also philosophized about life and its workings.
The stories are told through several POVs including a rat, a city, hunger, a magician, a hobgoblin and a princess who is manipulated into kissing a frog. My personal favorites are forever going to remain the first two. The spunk of one princess and the naive selfishness of the other - these were such tantalizing plots. The princesses are not miss goody two shoes in these unfairy tales and the princes are not always kind-hearted and charming. All the stories reflect the fact that 'happily forever' is an absurd idea and that 'happily forever' is not happily forever for everyone in the story.
"The effects of substances were always easy to cure - it is the effects of ideologies that present serious difficulties."
Some quotes are extremely profound like the above and this:
"This was not one of those stories where everyone starts to live happily ever after. That privilege is reserved only for the princes and princesses. The rest of us are just mice, who carry on with their miserable lives."
And then this, the princess says -
"Knight in shining armor? Him? Isn't father getting the whole concept wrong? If anyone's been a knight in shining armor here, it was me!"
I loved the book. It never went overboard once. Like I said it is very hard to believe that this was the author's first writing stint. I am also heartily hoping that there is going to be a part two soonest. The author has immense imagination and the love for what he does shows clearly through what he writes.
Moving far away from the age-old clichés, Carthick's Unfairy Tales present a fresh, alternate and intriguing take on 7 different fairy tales - Cinderella, The Frog Prince, Goldilocks, The Pied Piper, Hansel and Gretel, Jack and the beanstalk and Rumplestiltskin.
The titles of the seven stories are inspired by titles of classic books. The author's ability to be lucid and philosophical at the same time is worth a mention here. There are many musings in there, there is a whole lot of satire, the humor is well placed and top notch, the writing is fluid and it absolutely doesn't feel like this is the first book of the author. He has mastered the craft quite thoroughly and his punches are so brilliantly put. I love straight-faced humor. I love humor which doesn't belittle. Satire is a weapon of the powerless. Like Terry Pratchett says
"Satire is meant to ridicule power. If you are laughing at people who are hurting, it's not satire, it's bullying."
The author, in this case, has mocked his way through topics like misogyny/patriarchy, hunger, greed, human race and on his way has also philosophized about life and its workings.
The stories are told through several POVs including a rat, a city, hunger, a magician, a hobgoblin and a princess who is manipulated into kissing a frog. My personal favorites are forever going to remain the first two. The spunk of one princess and the naive selfishness of the other - these were such tantalizing plots. The princesses are not miss goody two shoes in these unfairy tales and the princes are not always kind-hearted and charming. All the stories reflect the fact that 'happily forever' is an absurd idea and that 'happily forever' is not happily forever for everyone in the story.
"The effects of substances were always easy to cure - it is the effects of ideologies that present serious difficulties."
Some quotes are extremely profound like the above and this:
"This was not one of those stories where everyone starts to live happily ever after. That privilege is reserved only for the princes and princesses. The rest of us are just mice, who carry on with their miserable lives."
And then this, the princess says -
"Knight in shining armor? Him? Isn't father getting the whole concept wrong? If anyone's been a knight in shining armor here, it was me!"
I loved the book. It never went overboard once. Like I said it is very hard to believe that this was the author's first writing stint. I am also heartily hoping that there is going to be a part two soonest. The author has immense imagination and the love for what he does shows clearly through what he writes.
March 7, 2018
When I started reading this book, I did not know what to expect, because fairy tale re-tellings, or actually re-tellings of any kind, can get really tricky. Especially because more often than not, we already have a certain set of feelings, opinions and prejudices about the original story (stories in this case) which can influence our experience of the re-telling.
However, I have to say that I did not have to worry about this when I read Carthick's Unfairy Tales, because even though he essentially told the same story, he altered the lenses through which the readers now observed the tale, by choosing a different narrator for the story, which meant a completely different POV, and amazingly enough, it made all the difference.
It actually compelled me to completely rethink everything I believed to be true about the original story, so there was really no question of old prejudices affecting the reading experience of this re-telling.
My only grouse with the book is that some of the stories were pretty straightforward without the crazy, genius twists that I had come to expect after reading some of the other stories in this book.
Nonetheless, it was still a pretty great read, and it was really refreshing to read a distinctive new voice, especially one that is so unique in style & approach.
All in all, a great debut effort in terms of concept as well as execution. I will definitely be looking forward to reading more from the author.
-Shantala @ Shanaya Tales
However, I have to say that I did not have to worry about this when I read Carthick's Unfairy Tales, because even though he essentially told the same story, he altered the lenses through which the readers now observed the tale, by choosing a different narrator for the story, which meant a completely different POV, and amazingly enough, it made all the difference.
It actually compelled me to completely rethink everything I believed to be true about the original story, so there was really no question of old prejudices affecting the reading experience of this re-telling.
My only grouse with the book is that some of the stories were pretty straightforward without the crazy, genius twists that I had come to expect after reading some of the other stories in this book.
Nonetheless, it was still a pretty great read, and it was really refreshing to read a distinctive new voice, especially one that is so unique in style & approach.
All in all, a great debut effort in terms of concept as well as execution. I will definitely be looking forward to reading more from the author.
-Shantala @ Shanaya Tales
January 27, 2018
Any parent, who is in the habit of narrating bedtime stories to their kids, would understand when I say I am bugged of fairy tales. Do you know how many times I’ve enacted ‘Goldilocks and the Three Bears’? It’s just a little more than ‘Cinderella’ and ‘Snow White’. It’s only in the last couple of years, since Geronimo Stilton and Wimpy Kid have taken over the household, and bedtime-story duties have been handed over to the hubby, that I’ve finally escaped from the whole routine of voice modulations and elaborate actions. I would be happy not to read another fairy tale forever again or, so I thought! Carthick has proved me wrong.
The seven stories in his collection ‘Unfairy Tales’ are a retelling of popular fairy tales bringing out the not-so-fair parts in them. His tales prove how the story changes based on who is telling it. Isn’t that why every new government changes the school history books first?
Coming to the individual stories, ‘Of Mice and Horses’ is my most favourite story in the collection. It has this beautiful quote: ‘The effects of substances are always easy to cure – it is the effects of ideologies that present serious difficulties.’ The stories can be read as just that—unfairy tales—or you could explore the subtle satire and undertones present in all of them. I found myself nodding in acceptance to many thoughts expressed in the book.
‘When things turn bad, people more often than not end up choosing the worst among them to lead.’
‘Many lives, especially those of men, have been ruined by the constant longing to return to that one moment of grandeur from the past that one can never revisit.’
At many places, his characters start to wander off into the depths of thought and philosophise about their lives and society. While this is necessary and has been beautifully done in most places, I found it cumbersome and distracting towards the end. I should probably blame myself for reading the book in a single sitting.
The language prowess of the author is evident in the way the sentences are structured and the stories are drawn out. The book would be suitable for anyone from the age of eight till eighty. Each person would draw something different from the tales based on their own experiences. That’s the beauty of this collection.
Hugely recommended!
The seven stories in his collection ‘Unfairy Tales’ are a retelling of popular fairy tales bringing out the not-so-fair parts in them. His tales prove how the story changes based on who is telling it. Isn’t that why every new government changes the school history books first?
Coming to the individual stories, ‘Of Mice and Horses’ is my most favourite story in the collection. It has this beautiful quote: ‘The effects of substances are always easy to cure – it is the effects of ideologies that present serious difficulties.’ The stories can be read as just that—unfairy tales—or you could explore the subtle satire and undertones present in all of them. I found myself nodding in acceptance to many thoughts expressed in the book.
‘When things turn bad, people more often than not end up choosing the worst among them to lead.’
‘Many lives, especially those of men, have been ruined by the constant longing to return to that one moment of grandeur from the past that one can never revisit.’
At many places, his characters start to wander off into the depths of thought and philosophise about their lives and society. While this is necessary and has been beautifully done in most places, I found it cumbersome and distracting towards the end. I should probably blame myself for reading the book in a single sitting.
The language prowess of the author is evident in the way the sentences are structured and the stories are drawn out. The book would be suitable for anyone from the age of eight till eighty. Each person would draw something different from the tales based on their own experiences. That’s the beauty of this collection.
Hugely recommended!
February 20, 2018
Fairy Tales have been part of every kid’s childhood, be it grandparents/ parents narrating the stories at bedtime or school’s activities exposing the kids to the make belief world.
Sometimes the stories are so familiar that one is not very keen to read them again. But what if they are told with a difference? What if the friend turns the foe, or the prince is actually not a knight in a shining armor? What if the story is being told from an animal’s point-of-view? Yes, that is what you’ll get in the collection ‘Carthick’s Unfairy Tales’.
The seven fairy tales that have been retold with a twist are; Cinderella, The Frog Prince, Goldilocks, Jack and the Beanstalk, Pied Piper, Rumpelstiltskin, and Hansel & Gretel.
The best thing of the collection is the unique spin-off the author has taken for each of the tales. Each re-telling shows us a different flavor be it; the characters ‘point-of-view’, the characterization itself, or the varied emotions and the ending.
Author has explored the various facets of animals, human emotions and reactions in the stories, and re-weaving the change expertly. I particularly liked the idea of the story being retold from the point-of-view of the side characters.
Fluent narration with impeccable language the collection takes you from one story to another seamlessly. One cannot put the book down once you start. Readers of all age will find the collection enjoyable.
Although each story was enjoyable in its own way, my favorite is the Unfairy Tale of ‘Cinderella’ where no fairy appears and a mouse plays role of a psychologists and guide to a fellow mouse. Have I got you intrigued enough? For more read ‘Carthick’s Unfairy Tales’ by T F Carthick.
I look forward to reading more from the author.
Sometimes the stories are so familiar that one is not very keen to read them again. But what if they are told with a difference? What if the friend turns the foe, or the prince is actually not a knight in a shining armor? What if the story is being told from an animal’s point-of-view? Yes, that is what you’ll get in the collection ‘Carthick’s Unfairy Tales’.
The seven fairy tales that have been retold with a twist are; Cinderella, The Frog Prince, Goldilocks, Jack and the Beanstalk, Pied Piper, Rumpelstiltskin, and Hansel & Gretel.
The best thing of the collection is the unique spin-off the author has taken for each of the tales. Each re-telling shows us a different flavor be it; the characters ‘point-of-view’, the characterization itself, or the varied emotions and the ending.
Author has explored the various facets of animals, human emotions and reactions in the stories, and re-weaving the change expertly. I particularly liked the idea of the story being retold from the point-of-view of the side characters.
Fluent narration with impeccable language the collection takes you from one story to another seamlessly. One cannot put the book down once you start. Readers of all age will find the collection enjoyable.
Although each story was enjoyable in its own way, my favorite is the Unfairy Tale of ‘Cinderella’ where no fairy appears and a mouse plays role of a psychologists and guide to a fellow mouse. Have I got you intrigued enough? For more read ‘Carthick’s Unfairy Tales’ by T F Carthick.
I look forward to reading more from the author.
February 22, 2018
I was hesitating to pick up this book. But now that I have finished this I want to thank its creator Carthick. I forgot how much I loved fairy tales when I was a child and this book reminded me that the true essence of any writing is the innocent joy of storytelling, and nothing else. No great literary technique, no wordplay, is worth it if the story itself is not there. A collection of 7 stories, this book questions and reinterprets old children's tales w.r.t. modern perspectives. The celebrated story of Cinderella is told through a mouse,the story of Goldilocks is told by the baby bear, the story of Hansel and Gretel is told by an unique narrator i.e. Hunger. I'd say the innovative choice of narrators alone gives the stories different perspectives that we can really appreciate. But the author didn't stop just there, he went on to change the events of the stories thinking what would have happened in a real world. In the story of the front and the princess, the princess had to kiss a frog to turn it into a celebrated prince who would later marry her. But in here, she found him to be extremely arrogant, ill-mannered and unlovely. So she hatched a plan to ward him off and stop the wedding.
The narrative is witty and presented in a style of traditional oral storytelling which is fitting for such stories.
It was very enjoyable and refreshing to read those old stories written in such manner. Many sweet memories came to me while I read the book, and I was smiling most of time. I loved it. Strongly recommended.
The narrative is witty and presented in a style of traditional oral storytelling which is fitting for such stories.
It was very enjoyable and refreshing to read those old stories written in such manner. Many sweet memories came to me while I read the book, and I was smiling most of time. I loved it. Strongly recommended.
March 12, 2018
My wife still calls me my "Mamma's Boy" and I don't mind it even at this age as I am what I am :). Now what has my Mamma got to do with this book? You ask? A lot. I always love and cherish a book or a story which sends me more closer to my mom (don't worry she is all healthy and awesome). This book sent me back in time when I was in sixth standard or something, back then as soon as I usually start my walk back to home from school, I would pray that "God, please I want to have Halwa today". And as soon as I will hit home my nasal senses will tell me that my wish was actually granted (always). But the moment I would look at the quantity she has made, I used to be sad and hurt to say "Why so less? why would you not make a bucket of this?" To which she will always calmly reply with a smile on her face "Bete, if I would make a load of it, it won't be this good no?". And that was always and still the case even today. The bestest dishes that she still makes always make me keep asking for more but to no avail. So this Mr. T F Karthik has actually served me the best tasted "Halwa" in the form of his Unfairy Tales that I kept asking more and the book gets over flat in 2 hours and a little more. But leaves a huge huge grin on my face that my kiddo gives me one look and says "Ok That's it, now don't tell me that I really need to read this book (too)". And I give her a wink as she actually doesn't know what she will be missing if she isn't going to read this one.
Haven't we all grown up reading so many fairy tales, still we crave for more but this is the first time that I have come across an "Unfairy" tale and I am forced to ask for more. Wow!! Simply Wow!! Hats off and take a bow Karthik for the beautiful retelling of the much loved stories from the days of yore like you call it. What is different in these stories is the way they are (re) told. Simple, Sweet but the most important and the damn good thing about them is the "point of view" from whose point of view the stories are told. Mind-blowing idea, concept and what an amazing execution. Now, imagine that you are reading a story from the point of view of a Rat, who was a horse a while ago and as he narrates it to his friend, it is actually unbelievable but true. And by the time he discloses whose horse he was while still being a Rat and how he craves to get back to that role to no avail, the reader is actually laughing out loud and hitting his palms on his own feet realizing "How could I not get it in the first place" And trust me, this is one example. I had no idea of sidey characters from any story from any of the much loved fairy tales and this books comes like a breath of fresh air giving us their accounts. Imagine what happened to the guy who sends Aladdin down the hole to fetch the magic Lamp was it? or to the witch who keeps Rapunzel in the tower? It is Hahalarious to say the least. I don't want to disclose the stories that he has re-told hence will not talk about any characters, you've got to read this "one hell of a piece of literature" to know it yourself but I guarantee you, that you have not read anything like this before in your past.
What I loved about the entire book (as short it was) was his sense of humor and philosophy which he kept brief but never ignore-able especially when his characters talked about us humans and what we do (mostly wrong things). Also, impeccable English, which so much reminded me of two of my all time favorite Authors "Dickens and Wodehouse" but never overdoing it. Although my daughter just read the first page and found it too tough to her taste (she is 11) but now after reading it myself, I am going to force it down her throat as I know that once she reads the first five pages, she will not be able to put it down as it becomes so engrossing and interesting and simple too.
The only grudge that I hold against the Author is "Why so short man?" but I know, my mom would have again said calmly with a smile "Son, it won't be this beautiful otherwise, No?". So there, I give him benefit of doubt and look forward to his upcoming work as and when he comes out. If dreams were to come true, I would really love to read the account of the Landlady of Mr. Holmes :) may be in a short story format but would love to read it especially the way Karthik has told these stories.
Haven't we all grown up reading so many fairy tales, still we crave for more but this is the first time that I have come across an "Unfairy" tale and I am forced to ask for more. Wow!! Simply Wow!! Hats off and take a bow Karthik for the beautiful retelling of the much loved stories from the days of yore like you call it. What is different in these stories is the way they are (re) told. Simple, Sweet but the most important and the damn good thing about them is the "point of view" from whose point of view the stories are told. Mind-blowing idea, concept and what an amazing execution. Now, imagine that you are reading a story from the point of view of a Rat, who was a horse a while ago and as he narrates it to his friend, it is actually unbelievable but true. And by the time he discloses whose horse he was while still being a Rat and how he craves to get back to that role to no avail, the reader is actually laughing out loud and hitting his palms on his own feet realizing "How could I not get it in the first place" And trust me, this is one example. I had no idea of sidey characters from any story from any of the much loved fairy tales and this books comes like a breath of fresh air giving us their accounts. Imagine what happened to the guy who sends Aladdin down the hole to fetch the magic Lamp was it? or to the witch who keeps Rapunzel in the tower? It is Hahalarious to say the least. I don't want to disclose the stories that he has re-told hence will not talk about any characters, you've got to read this "one hell of a piece of literature" to know it yourself but I guarantee you, that you have not read anything like this before in your past.
What I loved about the entire book (as short it was) was his sense of humor and philosophy which he kept brief but never ignore-able especially when his characters talked about us humans and what we do (mostly wrong things). Also, impeccable English, which so much reminded me of two of my all time favorite Authors "Dickens and Wodehouse" but never overdoing it. Although my daughter just read the first page and found it too tough to her taste (she is 11) but now after reading it myself, I am going to force it down her throat as I know that once she reads the first five pages, she will not be able to put it down as it becomes so engrossing and interesting and simple too.
The only grudge that I hold against the Author is "Why so short man?" but I know, my mom would have again said calmly with a smile "Son, it won't be this beautiful otherwise, No?". So there, I give him benefit of doubt and look forward to his upcoming work as and when he comes out. If dreams were to come true, I would really love to read the account of the Landlady of Mr. Holmes :) may be in a short story format but would love to read it especially the way Karthik has told these stories.
January 12, 2018
As a child I loved fairy tales. As I became an adult I started thinking over those tales. The flaws were apparent. The good people were always fair and beautiful, while the evil ought to be dark and ugly. The sole aim of the heroine's life was to win the heart of the prince. The tales were fatalist and some where even downright sadistic. Do we wish to tell such tales to our children? Certainly not.
Against this backdrop Carthick's Unfairy Tales comes as a bright change. This collection is a retelling of seven tales. To be honest out of the seven I had heard only three that of Cinderella, Pipe Piper and the frog prince. So the rest of the stories were brand new for me.
I really liked the way the author has shaped up the Frog Prince's story. He gives the Princess a spine. She comes across as a strong woman who can make intelligent choices and whose aim is certainly not marrying a man only because he is a prince (read rich and powerful in the modern connotation). I am sure I will be more than happy to tell such a tale to my toddler. Undoubtedly this is the best story in the collection.
These stories are told in unique voices. While the rat's narrative works well in the Cinderella's story, some voices appear inorganic, like a patch work just to sound something different. Also the Pipe Piper's story offers nothing new. Its just the same old story. With Cindrella and the Frog Prince the author had raise expectations. I wish there was a novelty in other stories as well.
What I liked about the book is that the writing is clean, the editing is superb. The author succeeds in maintaining a pace. The stories are of appropriate length. They are neither too short nor too long to lose attention span of the reader.
Carthick's Unfairy Tales is a unique book and you should not miss it.
Against this backdrop Carthick's Unfairy Tales comes as a bright change. This collection is a retelling of seven tales. To be honest out of the seven I had heard only three that of Cinderella, Pipe Piper and the frog prince. So the rest of the stories were brand new for me.
I really liked the way the author has shaped up the Frog Prince's story. He gives the Princess a spine. She comes across as a strong woman who can make intelligent choices and whose aim is certainly not marrying a man only because he is a prince (read rich and powerful in the modern connotation). I am sure I will be more than happy to tell such a tale to my toddler. Undoubtedly this is the best story in the collection.
These stories are told in unique voices. While the rat's narrative works well in the Cinderella's story, some voices appear inorganic, like a patch work just to sound something different. Also the Pipe Piper's story offers nothing new. Its just the same old story. With Cindrella and the Frog Prince the author had raise expectations. I wish there was a novelty in other stories as well.
What I liked about the book is that the writing is clean, the editing is superb. The author succeeds in maintaining a pace. The stories are of appropriate length. They are neither too short nor too long to lose attention span of the reader.
Carthick's Unfairy Tales is a unique book and you should not miss it.
January 3, 2018
There is nothing ‘fair’ about the fairy tales
“What if” is the undercurrent key word behind the Unfairy Tales of Carthik. As the blurb above suggests, the author sought to answer the question ‘what if’ in the modern context. As the blurb above suggest, ‘You will never be able to look at a fairy tale the same way ever again.’ That is a guarantee.
Read the full review here:
http://www.literateidiotsclub.com/rev...
“What if” is the undercurrent key word behind the Unfairy Tales of Carthik. As the blurb above suggests, the author sought to answer the question ‘what if’ in the modern context. As the blurb above suggest, ‘You will never be able to look at a fairy tale the same way ever again.’ That is a guarantee.
Read the full review here:
http://www.literateidiotsclub.com/rev...
May 4, 2018
“Carthick’s Unfairy Tales” is a collection of seven fairy tales all retold in a remarkable satirical way. Just as the title implies, there is nothing magical about the book. However, it is not too dark or sinister too. The tone of the book is both light and serious and the narrative is fast paced. Light enough for you to laugh out loud and serious enough to make you ponder on the human condition. All the seven stories have titles inspired by great works of great authors like Dickens, Steinbeck, Cormac McCarthy and a few others. The tales are narrated by humans, animals, a goblin and interestingly enough, by a city as well. All the characters speak mockingly of the human ways and behaviour and we just can’t help but nod in approval at how human beings are presented to us.
To give you a glimpse of how it is, here are some excerpts-
“The effects of substances were always easy to cure – it is the effects of ideologies that present serious difficulties.”
“Insanity has no cure. No wonder shrinks ply a thriving trade in the human world.”
We even have a feminist princess who looks down upon her life with disdain.
“Don’t do this. Don’t do that. Act as per your station....smile and speak sweetly to every damn slime-ball attending the banquet and act as if you don’t know the vile thoughts running in their heads. And then public appearances again! Again, deck yourself like a China doll and put yourself on public display – this time for the benefit of the commoners. Wave to them and deliver pre-rehearsed speeches full of empty words! What kind of life is this!”
And how “humans leave a trail of destruction wherever they you pass...you have to try everything. You need to poke your nose everywhere. Isn’t that what being human is essentially all about?”
This one I really liked a lot and rings so true.
“...another folly of humans, especially the leaders. They care more about perception than actually getting things done. And often initiatives undertaken to manage perceptions end up doing more harm than good.”
I think it’s time for me to stop raving about this book. I can go on and on but I’d rather you read this small hilarious book with a beautiful cover. It is a book for both the young and the old, to be read in sickness and in health. It sure did give me a boost while I was down. Though I tried so many books after this, I was unable to find one which provided me so much happiness in times of discomfort. Needless to say, this book gave me a huge book hangover from which I recovered only recently.
Rating: 4.5/5
(I would have given it a 5/5 if it had been longer. It was over before I knew it with nothing else to match up to its calibre.)
Thank you so much, Karthik Lakshminarayanan for this gem of a book.
To give you a glimpse of how it is, here are some excerpts-
“The effects of substances were always easy to cure – it is the effects of ideologies that present serious difficulties.”
“Insanity has no cure. No wonder shrinks ply a thriving trade in the human world.”
We even have a feminist princess who looks down upon her life with disdain.
“Don’t do this. Don’t do that. Act as per your station....smile and speak sweetly to every damn slime-ball attending the banquet and act as if you don’t know the vile thoughts running in their heads. And then public appearances again! Again, deck yourself like a China doll and put yourself on public display – this time for the benefit of the commoners. Wave to them and deliver pre-rehearsed speeches full of empty words! What kind of life is this!”
And how “humans leave a trail of destruction wherever they you pass...you have to try everything. You need to poke your nose everywhere. Isn’t that what being human is essentially all about?”
This one I really liked a lot and rings so true.
“...another folly of humans, especially the leaders. They care more about perception than actually getting things done. And often initiatives undertaken to manage perceptions end up doing more harm than good.”
I think it’s time for me to stop raving about this book. I can go on and on but I’d rather you read this small hilarious book with a beautiful cover. It is a book for both the young and the old, to be read in sickness and in health. It sure did give me a boost while I was down. Though I tried so many books after this, I was unable to find one which provided me so much happiness in times of discomfort. Needless to say, this book gave me a huge book hangover from which I recovered only recently.
Rating: 4.5/5
(I would have given it a 5/5 if it had been longer. It was over before I knew it with nothing else to match up to its calibre.)
Thank you so much, Karthik Lakshminarayanan for this gem of a book.
May 13, 2018
I have never read a fantasy book by an Indian author so when a friend said he was writing one, I was very eager to read it. This review is not sponsored and I did not receive a review copy from the author. I got my own copy.
Even though I love fairy tales, I have never read any retelling except Fables (which is not technically a retelling). I had nothing to compare this book to, except for the original tales. If I were to compare these with the original sexist tales, these were pretty good stories.
My most favorite story was “The frog who would be king”. This was a fun story with an awesome twist to the original story. I was unable to guess how the story was going to end since it had so many twists. My second favorite story was “What the hobgoblin did”. I would recommend this book just for these two great stories which both deserve 5/5 stars. Rest of the stories got 4 stars from my side. The weakest story was probably the one about Goldilocks and the Bears which got 3 stars, only because when compared to the other stories in this collection, it paled a bit.
The writing was great and it is difficult to believe this is the first published work by this author. What I loved the most was that the language used by the author was appropriate for the time periods in which the stories were set. This rarely happens these days as authors use modern language even when their stories are set in an older period.
Also the author has tried to give different POVs to the stories. Sometimes it’s tricky and only after you read roughly half of the story you realize who the narrator is or which fairy tale’s retelling this story is. This was done very cleverly by the author.
My only complaint was that few stories did not have many twists and were straightforward retellings of the original stories.
Considering how Indian bestsellers are either campus romances or crime fiction, I am hoping that people will give this book a try and discover that there are other interesting genres too like sci-fi and fantasy. Those who love sci-fi and fantasy, do encourage authors like these who write interesting stories without grammatical mistakes or hinglish words. Also this book can be read by anyone - children and adults as the stories are appropriate for any age group.
Overall, loved it and highly recommend this book.
Even though I love fairy tales, I have never read any retelling except Fables (which is not technically a retelling). I had nothing to compare this book to, except for the original tales. If I were to compare these with the original sexist tales, these were pretty good stories.
My most favorite story was “The frog who would be king”. This was a fun story with an awesome twist to the original story. I was unable to guess how the story was going to end since it had so many twists. My second favorite story was “What the hobgoblin did”. I would recommend this book just for these two great stories which both deserve 5/5 stars. Rest of the stories got 4 stars from my side. The weakest story was probably the one about Goldilocks and the Bears which got 3 stars, only because when compared to the other stories in this collection, it paled a bit.
The writing was great and it is difficult to believe this is the first published work by this author. What I loved the most was that the language used by the author was appropriate for the time periods in which the stories were set. This rarely happens these days as authors use modern language even when their stories are set in an older period.
Also the author has tried to give different POVs to the stories. Sometimes it’s tricky and only after you read roughly half of the story you realize who the narrator is or which fairy tale’s retelling this story is. This was done very cleverly by the author.
My only complaint was that few stories did not have many twists and were straightforward retellings of the original stories.
Considering how Indian bestsellers are either campus romances or crime fiction, I am hoping that people will give this book a try and discover that there are other interesting genres too like sci-fi and fantasy. Those who love sci-fi and fantasy, do encourage authors like these who write interesting stories without grammatical mistakes or hinglish words. Also this book can be read by anyone - children and adults as the stories are appropriate for any age group.
Overall, loved it and highly recommend this book.
May 5, 2018
I have savored every word in this book. Such a unique concept. Kudos to the author for thinking of this in the first place. The first story itself made me sit up and pay attention to the series. How many of us, and when I say us - I mean fairy tale lovers, have thought of the Cinderella story from the POV of a mouse? At least I haven't. I think our Ms. Ella became one of us by just being the human she was in this story. I, for one, am no longer jealous of her :)
Another story that left an impact on me was the pied piper story. Such a beautiful tale which ends in tragedy. I had never understood why this tale was ever a part of our kid's collection. I have always found this story to be morbid and more for the adults rather than the kids. And Karthik had today substantiated my theory with his take on this one.
The cutest one would be my all time favorite - Goldilocks. How I have hated her golden curls all my life. For a child whose curls were more inclined towards Golliwog, Goldilocks was a bane in my life. I am just glad that the Little Bear thought the same. Always loved the little bear :D
Never thought I would feel sorry for Rumplestiltskin, for he came out as a hero rather than the villain in this take of Karthik's fairy tale. I think women will like this reformed jake in his tragic avatar a lot.
All in all, loved all the stories. Some made me think and while other made me wonder what if - I think the author had captured the true essence of a fairy tale. As with the mythologies today, why can't we bend the fairy tales too to keep up with the need of the hour? Kudos to the author for imagining out of the box. Looking forward to reading more from this author.
Another story that left an impact on me was the pied piper story. Such a beautiful tale which ends in tragedy. I had never understood why this tale was ever a part of our kid's collection. I have always found this story to be morbid and more for the adults rather than the kids. And Karthik had today substantiated my theory with his take on this one.
The cutest one would be my all time favorite - Goldilocks. How I have hated her golden curls all my life. For a child whose curls were more inclined towards Golliwog, Goldilocks was a bane in my life. I am just glad that the Little Bear thought the same. Always loved the little bear :D
Never thought I would feel sorry for Rumplestiltskin, for he came out as a hero rather than the villain in this take of Karthik's fairy tale. I think women will like this reformed jake in his tragic avatar a lot.
All in all, loved all the stories. Some made me think and while other made me wonder what if - I think the author had captured the true essence of a fairy tale. As with the mythologies today, why can't we bend the fairy tales too to keep up with the need of the hour? Kudos to the author for imagining out of the box. Looking forward to reading more from this author.
April 10, 2020
Wonderful just wonderful, Carthick's been my friend for many years now although primarily through our blogs but I did ended up meeting him once too. Coming to the book of course as my friend he gave the copy of the book for an honest review. This is as honest as it gets this book is wonderful. Carthick has a wonderful creative mind which turns up ordinary into extraordinary.
This book has 7 fairy tales which you would already know and love but after they go through Carthick's treatment they retain their magic but now they are unfamiliar territory where you would take some time to even identify the story. I loved all the stories and the only reason I took a long time to finish the book is due to the fact that I don't usually read my e-books in Kindle but rather another app on my phone. But I enjoyed every moment of this quick read. Give it chance and once you have read it then Keep on Reading.
People who don't read generally ask me my reasons for reading. Simply put I just love reading and so to that end I have made it my motto to just Keep on Reading. I love to read everything except for Self Help books but even those once in a while. I read almost all the genre but YA, Fantasy, Biographies are the most. My favorite series is, of course, Harry Potter but then there are many more books that I just adore. I have bookcases filled with books which are waiting to be read so can't stay and spend more time in this review, so remember I loved reading this and love reading more, you should also read what you love and then just Keep on Reading.
This book has 7 fairy tales which you would already know and love but after they go through Carthick's treatment they retain their magic but now they are unfamiliar territory where you would take some time to even identify the story. I loved all the stories and the only reason I took a long time to finish the book is due to the fact that I don't usually read my e-books in Kindle but rather another app on my phone. But I enjoyed every moment of this quick read. Give it chance and once you have read it then Keep on Reading.
People who don't read generally ask me my reasons for reading. Simply put I just love reading and so to that end I have made it my motto to just Keep on Reading. I love to read everything except for Self Help books but even those once in a while. I read almost all the genre but YA, Fantasy, Biographies are the most. My favorite series is, of course, Harry Potter but then there are many more books that I just adore. I have bookcases filled with books which are waiting to be read so can't stay and spend more time in this review, so remember I loved reading this and love reading more, you should also read what you love and then just Keep on Reading.
January 30, 2018
Do you remember the first story that you read? Do you remember how you came to be introduced to fairy tales like Cinderella, Snow White and the like? As for me, I do not. It feels like I have always known those stories from birth. And when something that you have believed from the time that you understood perhaps, that time existed, comes to be challenged, how would you feel? Something that you had created a beautiful imagery of and had always fantasized about, but now whose basic values are being questioned?
Yes, I am talking about retellings, which seems to be this very popular thing that I had no idea about even when I first read one of them. And here, I will be telling you about of one of my favourite retellings of the ever famous fairy tales which you would certainly be familiar with, unless of course, you grew up in the Wizarding World.
Before I go on further, let me just slide in the name of the book – Carthick’s Unfairy Tales which is the handiwork of the Sorcerer Karthik Sir. As I mentioned before, having something rooted inside me to be pulled out and planted upside down was not an easy task. Even, many a times, when the alternative is staring right at my face, I become stubborn and try to be resistant to change. But reading this book, I didn’t even realize that its words were digging in and suddenly by the end of the story, everything is upside down. To be honest, the few people who read even one of the short stories were like ‘WTF’.
This is getting really disorganized. There are so many things that I want to put down together. So let me start again-
The only thing that is revolving around my head again and again is how the last story just ended a few minutes ago. It was so damn good. Making a retelling interesting and catchy, I feel is not a very easy job because here, the elements that one is going to use in one’s story is already established in the minds of the people and one has to use these elements to bring about a change or create an impact. So, plot wise, I think the author has really done a great job in twisting these fairy tales to such an extent that it broke the stereotypes and prejudices which were passed down through generations.
When it comes to writing style, it is neither very extravagant nor is it simple. It is like travelling in a train smoothly rocking to and fro, sitting in the window side and taking in the farm lands stretched far when suddenly a group of trees covers your eyesight which is like one of the best thing ever. (If you can decipher what I meant by this, I take off my hat for you, otherwise you can just ask me) But what I loved best about the writing style was the different POV’s that the author used. I CAN’T EXPRESS HOW MUCH I LOVED SOME OF THE POV’s. My favourite being the one told from the POV of a city and the POV of an abstract noun –HUNGER! It was so well presented that it left me wide-eyed.
The book consists of 8 stories, each very different from each other. I mean when I read the first one, I had already formed an idea of how the next one was going to proceed and well, I was wrong and let me tell you, being proved wrong by the author is the only moment perhaps where you like the fact that you have been proved wrong.
And here, I present you with a challenge to read this book and have subdued reactions towards it. This is one make-your-head-spin type of story.
Yes, I am talking about retellings, which seems to be this very popular thing that I had no idea about even when I first read one of them. And here, I will be telling you about of one of my favourite retellings of the ever famous fairy tales which you would certainly be familiar with, unless of course, you grew up in the Wizarding World.
Before I go on further, let me just slide in the name of the book – Carthick’s Unfairy Tales which is the handiwork of the Sorcerer Karthik Sir. As I mentioned before, having something rooted inside me to be pulled out and planted upside down was not an easy task. Even, many a times, when the alternative is staring right at my face, I become stubborn and try to be resistant to change. But reading this book, I didn’t even realize that its words were digging in and suddenly by the end of the story, everything is upside down. To be honest, the few people who read even one of the short stories were like ‘WTF’.
This is getting really disorganized. There are so many things that I want to put down together. So let me start again-
The only thing that is revolving around my head again and again is how the last story just ended a few minutes ago. It was so damn good. Making a retelling interesting and catchy, I feel is not a very easy job because here, the elements that one is going to use in one’s story is already established in the minds of the people and one has to use these elements to bring about a change or create an impact. So, plot wise, I think the author has really done a great job in twisting these fairy tales to such an extent that it broke the stereotypes and prejudices which were passed down through generations.
When it comes to writing style, it is neither very extravagant nor is it simple. It is like travelling in a train smoothly rocking to and fro, sitting in the window side and taking in the farm lands stretched far when suddenly a group of trees covers your eyesight which is like one of the best thing ever. (If you can decipher what I meant by this, I take off my hat for you, otherwise you can just ask me) But what I loved best about the writing style was the different POV’s that the author used. I CAN’T EXPRESS HOW MUCH I LOVED SOME OF THE POV’s. My favourite being the one told from the POV of a city and the POV of an abstract noun –HUNGER! It was so well presented that it left me wide-eyed.
The book consists of 8 stories, each very different from each other. I mean when I read the first one, I had already formed an idea of how the next one was going to proceed and well, I was wrong and let me tell you, being proved wrong by the author is the only moment perhaps where you like the fact that you have been proved wrong.
And here, I present you with a challenge to read this book and have subdued reactions towards it. This is one make-your-head-spin type of story.
November 6, 2018
I had tried reading Grimm brother's fairytales but couldn't read many. They felt a bit too dark and sinister to my tastes. There's only so much darkness one can consume and remain unaffected. Unfairy tales, inspired from the same stories, however, are different from them. These are told from the perspective of characters other than protagonist, like a nice telling a story of Cinderella.I wished there would be few more stories to it. Initially I wasn't captivated by the book but as soon as I read the Princess and the frog's story I was delighted. I didn't realize how the book ended after that.
It was not just a brisk read, though. You nod approving the narrative of the characters which are so unusual to our fairytale-accustomed mind. Sometimes you smile and feel light, sometimes you feel repulsive at the way we humans are. Now I heard there's a sequel coming up, I'm looking forward to it.
I could see the editor's style imbued in the book and it felt perfectly blended.
I had a tough time assigning bookshelf to this little yet powerful book. My only question is why it has to be so short?
It was not just a brisk read, though. You nod approving the narrative of the characters which are so unusual to our fairytale-accustomed mind. Sometimes you smile and feel light, sometimes you feel repulsive at the way we humans are. Now I heard there's a sequel coming up, I'm looking forward to it.
I could see the editor's style imbued in the book and it felt perfectly blended.
I had a tough time assigning bookshelf to this little yet powerful book. My only question is why it has to be so short?
January 5, 2018
The best writers are those who have a voice that is all their own, and TF Carthick certainly is one of them. In ‘Carthick’s Unfairy Tales’ he brings his unique skills, his whimsical style and quirky perspective to bear upon the age-old fairy-tales we are all so familiar with. Sometimes featuring a change of perspective, sometimes an examination of certain facets we may have ignored, he makes these simple morality tales into farces or tragedies, proving that truth is a matter of how you look at the facts.
For a reader, these are certain to be filled with enjoyment and reflection, and indeed will refresh your memories while making you question whether even the originals were as simple as you thought them to be!
For a reader, these are certain to be filled with enjoyment and reflection, and indeed will refresh your memories while making you question whether even the originals were as simple as you thought them to be!
February 26, 2018
I must say that Carthik is a fascinating storyteller with strange twists to his tales, which is exactly the theme of his latest work, Carthik’s Unfairy Tales. This is a collection of seven fairy tales, retold in the author’s unique style.
Of Mice and Horses:
This is the story of Cinderella, told from the viewpoint of the mouse who had been transformed into a glorious steed by the fairy godmother on night of the grand ball at the palace. Alas, the horse turns back into a mouse at midnight. While Cinderella gets her prince, the mouse continues to live his life in a hole. A poignant tale indeed.
The Frog who would be King:
The story of the frog prince narrated from the point of view of the princess. She’s a feminist through and through and it’s a fun read how she outwits the prince. A modern twist to the old tale.
No Country for Wild Beasts:
Goldilocks and the three bears. The original story is told from a little girl’s perspective. Carthik has written his story from the baby bear’s perspective. It shows how mean human beings can be, even if it’s supposedly a cute little girl. Good one!
The Beans of Avarice:
What if villains turn heroes? Or if stories were told from the villain’s perspective? That’s what the author has done in this one. A magician hands over the magic bean seeds to a young man so that he can use the youth to get his work done. But what happens when the young man turns the tables on the magician?
A Tale of One City:
The Pied Piper of Hamelin retold Carthik style, from the town’s point of view. The tale is not very different from the original, except for a villain called Johann, who’s bad through and through. Well written.
What the Hobgoblin did:
Rumpelstiltskin’s story told from his viewpoint. The author has given layers to the poor girl, Sally, turned queen and to the hobgoblin. An interesting take and my favourite tale in this collection.
The Hunger Diaries:
The story of Hansel and Gretel told from the view point of hunger. I must agree that it’s a different perspective but I also felt this story was told in a rather dull fashion.
I must say that the author has a way with words and his language is really good. I also like his unique take on the fairy tales that have been told and retold over generations.
That said, I would like to mention that the prolonged introduction for every story kind of takes away from the story itself. These are works of fiction and I would rather jump into the story than read long explanations as to why the story has been written the way it has.
VERDICT: This is a fun read and you should go for it if you are a fan of fairy tales.
Of Mice and Horses:
This is the story of Cinderella, told from the viewpoint of the mouse who had been transformed into a glorious steed by the fairy godmother on night of the grand ball at the palace. Alas, the horse turns back into a mouse at midnight. While Cinderella gets her prince, the mouse continues to live his life in a hole. A poignant tale indeed.
The Frog who would be King:
The story of the frog prince narrated from the point of view of the princess. She’s a feminist through and through and it’s a fun read how she outwits the prince. A modern twist to the old tale.
No Country for Wild Beasts:
Goldilocks and the three bears. The original story is told from a little girl’s perspective. Carthik has written his story from the baby bear’s perspective. It shows how mean human beings can be, even if it’s supposedly a cute little girl. Good one!
The Beans of Avarice:
What if villains turn heroes? Or if stories were told from the villain’s perspective? That’s what the author has done in this one. A magician hands over the magic bean seeds to a young man so that he can use the youth to get his work done. But what happens when the young man turns the tables on the magician?
A Tale of One City:
The Pied Piper of Hamelin retold Carthik style, from the town’s point of view. The tale is not very different from the original, except for a villain called Johann, who’s bad through and through. Well written.
What the Hobgoblin did:
Rumpelstiltskin’s story told from his viewpoint. The author has given layers to the poor girl, Sally, turned queen and to the hobgoblin. An interesting take and my favourite tale in this collection.
The Hunger Diaries:
The story of Hansel and Gretel told from the view point of hunger. I must agree that it’s a different perspective but I also felt this story was told in a rather dull fashion.
I must say that the author has a way with words and his language is really good. I also like his unique take on the fairy tales that have been told and retold over generations.
That said, I would like to mention that the prolonged introduction for every story kind of takes away from the story itself. These are works of fiction and I would rather jump into the story than read long explanations as to why the story has been written the way it has.
VERDICT: This is a fun read and you should go for it if you are a fan of fairy tales.
April 17, 2018
Unfairy Tales is a retelling of the old, original fairy tales we enjoyed as kids. All of us would have regaled our kids with various versions of these stories but never like this. Carthick has put his own unique spin on the tales. Each story has a different flavour and makes them good and a different read. I would never be looking at the fairytales in the same light again.
This book, Unfairy Tales brings a unique take on the characters of the stories who may be secondary or the antihero in the original tale. It stands apart from the various other retelling or spinoffs of the fairytales that abound on Amazon and cover various genres from romance to erotica. The stories are well chosen and connect to the theme of being Unfair or Unfairy like.
I found the unique perspective of the little pig against Goldilocks so endearing. He was right in being mighty upset after all his things got ruined in the story, No Country For Wild Beasts.
What the Hobgoblin Did had the poor dear Rumpelsliltskin was a nice guy after all, spinning gold, wasn’t he? Read the book to be totally sure!
A Tale of One City is about The Pied Piper, I always found him to be brooding, aloof and mysterious and Carthick has reaffirmed that. If you still need to know what he did and why did he actually take away all those kids you have to read Unfairy Tales. Intrigued enough?
Of Mice and Horses, a mouse who remembers the transformation he experienced. It is right out of an alien abduction scenario 😀 😉 and guess which fairy tale it talks about?
The Frog Who Would Be King showed the intentions of people are never quite like what they seem. The maiden and the frog with their thoughts made such a fun read. What a devious mind we have.
The Beans of Avarice is the story of those magical beans and the man who actually had the beans, what did he want, why was he looking for a poor boy? Such a different side of the story.
The Hunger Diaries is a twisted tale of humanity. It reminded me of poor children who face famine and hunger but what if your own family wants you to stay hungry?
The villains of the stories in #UnfairyTales are not always who we always thought them to be. The alternate stories make us think, ponder and wonder what the world was like when these were originally written. Unfairy tales are short stories that make us think and reflect on our humanity.
This book, Unfairy Tales brings a unique take on the characters of the stories who may be secondary or the antihero in the original tale. It stands apart from the various other retelling or spinoffs of the fairytales that abound on Amazon and cover various genres from romance to erotica. The stories are well chosen and connect to the theme of being Unfair or Unfairy like.
I found the unique perspective of the little pig against Goldilocks so endearing. He was right in being mighty upset after all his things got ruined in the story, No Country For Wild Beasts.
What the Hobgoblin Did had the poor dear Rumpelsliltskin was a nice guy after all, spinning gold, wasn’t he? Read the book to be totally sure!
A Tale of One City is about The Pied Piper, I always found him to be brooding, aloof and mysterious and Carthick has reaffirmed that. If you still need to know what he did and why did he actually take away all those kids you have to read Unfairy Tales. Intrigued enough?
Of Mice and Horses, a mouse who remembers the transformation he experienced. It is right out of an alien abduction scenario 😀 😉 and guess which fairy tale it talks about?
The Frog Who Would Be King showed the intentions of people are never quite like what they seem. The maiden and the frog with their thoughts made such a fun read. What a devious mind we have.
The Beans of Avarice is the story of those magical beans and the man who actually had the beans, what did he want, why was he looking for a poor boy? Such a different side of the story.
The Hunger Diaries is a twisted tale of humanity. It reminded me of poor children who face famine and hunger but what if your own family wants you to stay hungry?
The villains of the stories in #UnfairyTales are not always who we always thought them to be. The alternate stories make us think, ponder and wonder what the world was like when these were originally written. Unfairy tales are short stories that make us think and reflect on our humanity.
December 3, 2018
I first came to know about this book from SRR (the virtual reading group I am a member of), where it was lauded with rave reviews.
As the title indicates, this is a collection of stories – retellings of popular fairy tales, but with a different take. Some have a twist from the usual narrative, while others are told from a different PoV. One or two are in the lighter vein, and all of them are thought-provoking. The different perspectives that the author has presented are fascinating, and often make you think whether justice was really served in the popular versions we have grown up hearing (my take – ‘Unfairy’ could refer to the unfair world we live in, or the picture that has been painted for us all these years).
Another delightful thing about the book is the literary references and puns used throughout the stories, specifically the titles, e.g., the first story is titled ‘Of Mice and Horses’ (and it is a take on the story of Cinderella). The subtle humor and satire keeps one entertained, even at the points of philosophical musings.
What could be improved, I think, is the style of language (for want of a better word). Sometimes the sentence structure reminds me of the style of O. Henry – formal and descriptive and witty, all at the same time. At others, the style is more crisp and contemporary. The switch was a bit disconcerting, and it may be smoother if a story follows a consistency in style (my personal preference is for the old world charm of O. Henry).
It is great to see young Indian authors coming up with such experiments, and with wonderful results. I feel that these are the kind of stories that will appeal to a very wide range of readers, beyond the barriers of age, gender or which part of the world you live in. I loved it, and recommend it highly, though I think young (pre-teen) readers will not be able to appreciate all the points the author has put forward.
As the title indicates, this is a collection of stories – retellings of popular fairy tales, but with a different take. Some have a twist from the usual narrative, while others are told from a different PoV. One or two are in the lighter vein, and all of them are thought-provoking. The different perspectives that the author has presented are fascinating, and often make you think whether justice was really served in the popular versions we have grown up hearing (my take – ‘Unfairy’ could refer to the unfair world we live in, or the picture that has been painted for us all these years).
Another delightful thing about the book is the literary references and puns used throughout the stories, specifically the titles, e.g., the first story is titled ‘Of Mice and Horses’ (and it is a take on the story of Cinderella). The subtle humor and satire keeps one entertained, even at the points of philosophical musings.
What could be improved, I think, is the style of language (for want of a better word). Sometimes the sentence structure reminds me of the style of O. Henry – formal and descriptive and witty, all at the same time. At others, the style is more crisp and contemporary. The switch was a bit disconcerting, and it may be smoother if a story follows a consistency in style (my personal preference is for the old world charm of O. Henry).
It is great to see young Indian authors coming up with such experiments, and with wonderful results. I feel that these are the kind of stories that will appeal to a very wide range of readers, beyond the barriers of age, gender or which part of the world you live in. I loved it, and recommend it highly, though I think young (pre-teen) readers will not be able to appreciate all the points the author has put forward.
January 5, 2018
I was slightly hesitant about picking up a book based on Fairy tales. However, I decided to take a chance to see what take this author would adopt and I am glad to say that after reading them my expectations were more than met. Carthick (the author) looks at the world around us differently. Old Socrates had his why, what and who but Carthick seems to revel in What If? With his imagination that can only be termed zany, his ‘what if’ becomes a potent tool. Wielding this tool as a seasoned professional he has re-imagined fairy tales that we have all read and enjoyed as children and made them Unfairy! I have found them to be delightful and I am certain young and old will have a gala time enjoying them.
July 25, 2018
Book Review: Carthick's Unfairy Tales by T.F.Carthick
This review has been long pending. I read the book long back but the unique stories in this book are fresh in my mind. Thought provoking and surprising at the same time.
The Title of the book is apt. Unfairy fairy tales. There is nothing fairy about it :)
The cover does justice in depicting the stories within.
Good, clean, simple language. Steady flow in all stories. Characters evolve beautifully as each story progresses. Psychological bend to each story will make you rethink and ponder over the original story.
Each story is thought provoking and will make you sit up. The stories give you a different point of view or angle to look at from. I am sure you will not look at fairy tales the same way again.
I was confused when reading the first 2-3 pages. The story blew me away as it unfolded. For the next stories I was guessing what will happen next. Kudos Carthick for keeping the reader engaged and on the edge of their seat throughout all the stories.
This review has been long pending. I read the book long back but the unique stories in this book are fresh in my mind. Thought provoking and surprising at the same time.
The Title of the book is apt. Unfairy fairy tales. There is nothing fairy about it :)
The cover does justice in depicting the stories within.
Good, clean, simple language. Steady flow in all stories. Characters evolve beautifully as each story progresses. Psychological bend to each story will make you rethink and ponder over the original story.
Each story is thought provoking and will make you sit up. The stories give you a different point of view or angle to look at from. I am sure you will not look at fairy tales the same way again.
I was confused when reading the first 2-3 pages. The story blew me away as it unfolded. For the next stories I was guessing what will happen next. Kudos Carthick for keeping the reader engaged and on the edge of their seat throughout all the stories.
February 18, 2018
Truly a collection of Unfairy Tales!
Entirely an out of the box perspective on fairy tales!
This book has some darkness, cynicism, and humour woven into the fairy tales we have read. I would say a very interesting take on the fairy tales. Some moments are rather shocking but it holds you for the next tale.
From the mice to town Hamelin and from the arrogant frog to a wicked magician who wanted the boy to go up the beanstalk, the curiosity of Rumpelstiltskin etc… you are bound to be surprised at the author’s interpretation. One is left wondering, ‘Is it the same fairy tale that we have read?’ After every tale, you are left wondering which other character's eyes, the author is going to write the next tale.
A quick, new and different take on fairy tales! And trust me true to its title it is a collection of Unfairy Tales.
Entirely an out of the box perspective on fairy tales!
This book has some darkness, cynicism, and humour woven into the fairy tales we have read. I would say a very interesting take on the fairy tales. Some moments are rather shocking but it holds you for the next tale.
From the mice to town Hamelin and from the arrogant frog to a wicked magician who wanted the boy to go up the beanstalk, the curiosity of Rumpelstiltskin etc… you are bound to be surprised at the author’s interpretation. One is left wondering, ‘Is it the same fairy tale that we have read?’ After every tale, you are left wondering which other character's eyes, the author is going to write the next tale.
A quick, new and different take on fairy tales! And trust me true to its title it is a collection of Unfairy Tales.
February 28, 2018
I would rate this book a four and a half stars. It has been a long time since I have read a book that was both entertaining and thought provoking at the same time.
The book takes a look at the fairy tales from a refreshingly new perspective. By the time I got to the third story, I started trying to guess what spin the author would put on the next story. He has really put in a lot of thought into writing the book and I think every parent should read this book themselves, before reading out fairy tales to their kids. It might make you rethink what you are really teaching your kids through the age old tales.
January 21, 2018
#BookReview: Carthick’s Unfairy Tales: A retelling of seven tales from the days of yore.
Genre: Short Stories. Fiction. Fantasy
Pages: 134
Available in Paperback and E-book format
The Plot:
Ever wondered what happened to the horses who drove Cinderella’s pumpkin turned carriage to the Ball that changed her fortunes and life?
Or thought about what may have gone on inside Rumpelstiltskin’s mind as he went about doing what he did?
What made Hansel and Gretel survive the Witch?
Or what happened to the Frog that tuned into a Prince when a princess kissed him, ridding him of his curse?
Whether you may have thought of all this or not, author T F Carthick certainly did.
He not only thought of it all but put his thoughts into words to form a book. Carthick’s Unfairy Tales is a delightful melange of stories retold, his way. Seven Fairy Tales we are all familiar with, each one retold with a twist
We grew up on fairy tales and Carthick makes those fairy tales grow up.
My Thoughts:
I have never given a thought of what may have happened next or what may have happened differently when I read Fairy Tales, even as an adult.
The title of this book got my attention though and made me wonder what the retelling would be about?
I started reading the book as soon as I got it and was hooked instantly, finishing it in one go.
T F Carthick is an avid Blogger turned Author. His writing style is refreshing. His writing voice is crisp, confident and he has a quirky sense of humour running through. His keen sense of observation shows up in the nuances of all the characters portrayed.
Taking well known fairy tales and turning them around is a bit of a challenge, and I dare say a risk, but Carthick carries it off with aplomb.
***** 4 Stars to Carthick’s Unfairy Tales: A retelling of seven tales from the days of yore.
My rating chart;
*Use it as a doorstop. **Read it if you have nothing better to do. ***You will like it if you like this particular genre. ****Must read! *****What! You haven’t read it YET?!
Genre: Short Stories. Fiction. Fantasy
Pages: 134
Available in Paperback and E-book format
The Plot:
Ever wondered what happened to the horses who drove Cinderella’s pumpkin turned carriage to the Ball that changed her fortunes and life?
Or thought about what may have gone on inside Rumpelstiltskin’s mind as he went about doing what he did?
What made Hansel and Gretel survive the Witch?
Or what happened to the Frog that tuned into a Prince when a princess kissed him, ridding him of his curse?
Whether you may have thought of all this or not, author T F Carthick certainly did.
He not only thought of it all but put his thoughts into words to form a book. Carthick’s Unfairy Tales is a delightful melange of stories retold, his way. Seven Fairy Tales we are all familiar with, each one retold with a twist
We grew up on fairy tales and Carthick makes those fairy tales grow up.
My Thoughts:
I have never given a thought of what may have happened next or what may have happened differently when I read Fairy Tales, even as an adult.
The title of this book got my attention though and made me wonder what the retelling would be about?
I started reading the book as soon as I got it and was hooked instantly, finishing it in one go.
T F Carthick is an avid Blogger turned Author. His writing style is refreshing. His writing voice is crisp, confident and he has a quirky sense of humour running through. His keen sense of observation shows up in the nuances of all the characters portrayed.
Taking well known fairy tales and turning them around is a bit of a challenge, and I dare say a risk, but Carthick carries it off with aplomb.
***** 4 Stars to Carthick’s Unfairy Tales: A retelling of seven tales from the days of yore.
My rating chart;
*Use it as a doorstop. **Read it if you have nothing better to do. ***You will like it if you like this particular genre. ****Must read! *****What! You haven’t read it YET?!
October 23, 2018
I had heard a lot of good things about this book on a reading group online I am member of. However, the writing left me thoroughly disappointed. The concept, telling fairy tales that most of us love, from a different perspective and bringing some nuance into the telling, seemed interesting. However, the writing felt amateurish. At times it felt as if it was trying too hard to be clever, like someone would do for a school parody or something. Once the perspective from which the story was to be told was chosen, the stand taken was expressed repetitively almost in the same words so as to make you feel impatient to get the story over with. Only the Goldilocks story seemed a bit interesting, to be honest.
March 7, 2018
I loved this book. This talks about the true nature and color of humans without all the unicorn fluff! The author has given a fantastic realistic twist to the otherwise silly and far-fetched tales.
While 'The beans of avarice' is my favorite of the seven, I also loved 'The frog who would be king' for a decent take on feminism.
Definitely worth a read. Definitely better than most of the Indian author crap that comes out these days.
While 'The beans of avarice' is my favorite of the seven, I also loved 'The frog who would be king' for a decent take on feminism.
Definitely worth a read. Definitely better than most of the Indian author crap that comes out these days.
March 16, 2018
I received this book in Kindle format from a Goodreads Giveaway.
This is a fun little read consisting of fairy tales written from unconventional points of view. I would recommend this for developing critical thinking and just for fun. I can imagine instructors using it to inspire students for their own creative writing.
This is a fun little read consisting of fairy tales written from unconventional points of view. I would recommend this for developing critical thinking and just for fun. I can imagine instructors using it to inspire students for their own creative writing.
May 27, 2018
When I initially bought this book, I wasn't really sure what I was going to be reading. Whether they would be modern re-takes on age old fairy tales or if they were going to be modern stories inspired by those fairy tales. Thankfully, it turned out to be neither. A practical, more realistic, totally unique perspective written or seen through the eyes of some of the other characters, stories that question some very basic choices made, some very inherent behaviour especially those within the human race make for some very interesting reading! Add to that the humour, wit and sarcasm laced throughout! The stories, as a result, are works which I cannot classify into one single bucket or another. And in doing that, TF creates a niche here.
'Tales of disagreeable frogs and distressed mice' - both turned out to be my favourites in the book!!!
'Tales of disagreeable frogs and distressed mice' - both turned out to be my favourites in the book!!!
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