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Fairy Tales Gone Bad #2
Fairy Tales Gone Bad: Frankenstiltskin
The second story in a funny, deliciously dark, three-part series of twisted classics, written in verse by award-winning poet Joseph Coelho.
Joining the family business, animal-lover Bryony proves to be an extraordinary taxidermist, whose tender fingers create displays which comfort, educate and astound. But when Byrony’s proud father boasts of her skill, who should come calling but the secretive King of all Mythica. Locking her away, he gives her three horrible tasks … three impossible tasks! It’s only then that a strange, sinister creature emerges from the shadows of the castle, offering Bryony a helping hand… But at what cost?
Frankenstein meets Rumpelstiltkin in this expertly-stitched story about a powerful king, a girl unafraid to stand up for her beliefs, and a monstrous little creature with magic – and greed – in his bones.
Joining the family business, animal-lover Bryony proves to be an extraordinary taxidermist, whose tender fingers create displays which comfort, educate and astound. But when Byrony’s proud father boasts of her skill, who should come calling but the secretive King of all Mythica. Locking her away, he gives her three horrible tasks … three impossible tasks! It’s only then that a strange, sinister creature emerges from the shadows of the castle, offering Bryony a helping hand… But at what cost?
Frankenstein meets Rumpelstiltkin in this expertly-stitched story about a powerful king, a girl unafraid to stand up for her beliefs, and a monstrous little creature with magic – and greed – in his bones.
240 pages, Paperback
Published October 7, 2021
2 people are currently reading
91 people want to read
About the author
Joseph Coelho
83 books83 followersJoseph Coelho is a British poet and children's book author who was elected Children's Laureate in 2022.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
October 26, 2021
Book Reviewed on www.whisperingstories.com
The second book in the Fairy Tales Gone Bad collection has just been released in time for Halloween. Frankenstiltskin is a retelling of the old fairy tale Rumpelstiltskin, though I did have to have a quick scan of what the original was about as it has been many, many years since I read it.
In this version, a taxidermist’s daughter is taken by the king of the land to bring back to life his deceased son’s animals, including a fox and a polar bear. Her father told one of the king’s men that his daughter is a better taxidermist than he is and has a way of bringing the animals back to life, though he didn’t mean literally.
The king orders her to bring the animals back to life but she can’t, she can only stuff them and make them look realistic. That is until Frankenstiltskin arrives and offers to bring them back to life in return for a reward.
Frankenstiltskin is a lot of fun and will keep the reader engaged the whole way through. It contains some amazing black and white artwork on each page that brings the retelling to life.
The book is a little bit creepy and quite humorous at times too. It is a good length for a middle-grade reader and will keep them entertained for a while, yet, short enough that they could read it in one sitting if they so desired.
One of the main things I love about this series is that the books contain some wonderful messages, this time the messages are about the way people treat animals and how to look after them properly.
Another amazing book from the collection after ‘Zombierella‘ which was released last year.
The second book in the Fairy Tales Gone Bad collection has just been released in time for Halloween. Frankenstiltskin is a retelling of the old fairy tale Rumpelstiltskin, though I did have to have a quick scan of what the original was about as it has been many, many years since I read it.
In this version, a taxidermist’s daughter is taken by the king of the land to bring back to life his deceased son’s animals, including a fox and a polar bear. Her father told one of the king’s men that his daughter is a better taxidermist than he is and has a way of bringing the animals back to life, though he didn’t mean literally.
The king orders her to bring the animals back to life but she can’t, she can only stuff them and make them look realistic. That is until Frankenstiltskin arrives and offers to bring them back to life in return for a reward.
Frankenstiltskin is a lot of fun and will keep the reader engaged the whole way through. It contains some amazing black and white artwork on each page that brings the retelling to life.
The book is a little bit creepy and quite humorous at times too. It is a good length for a middle-grade reader and will keep them entertained for a while, yet, short enough that they could read it in one sitting if they so desired.
One of the main things I love about this series is that the books contain some wonderful messages, this time the messages are about the way people treat animals and how to look after them properly.
Another amazing book from the collection after ‘Zombierella‘ which was released last year.
August 6, 2022
Is there anything better than dipping into a fun little middle grade book with whimsical storytelling, beautiful illustrations and those glossy pages that smell nice? Absolutely not. The joy felt reading this was very wholesome.
I think this is exactly the kind of book I’d give to and read with the younger people in my life, it had references to common fairy tales and stories but put a very fresh and unique spin on the plot that took me pleasantly by surprise. I loved how fun and engaging this one was, with it’s snappy pacing and funny dialogue. The descriptions were ridiculous in the best way and I will admit that the description of someone being ‘spaghettified’ made me actually laugh out loud.
This is one of those books that will keep you along for the ride and make you want to read more. I really enjoyed it.
Not a full five star because I thought some of the dialogue was a little challenging so it was kind of unclear who this was supposed to be aimed at. Also there was a couple of (kind of) rhyming sentences at the beginning that were introduced then dropped which confused me on the structure of the storytelling. It felt like a random addition that didn’t really work for me.
I think this is exactly the kind of book I’d give to and read with the younger people in my life, it had references to common fairy tales and stories but put a very fresh and unique spin on the plot that took me pleasantly by surprise. I loved how fun and engaging this one was, with it’s snappy pacing and funny dialogue. The descriptions were ridiculous in the best way and I will admit that the description of someone being ‘spaghettified’ made me actually laugh out loud.
This is one of those books that will keep you along for the ride and make you want to read more. I really enjoyed it.
Not a full five star because I thought some of the dialogue was a little challenging so it was kind of unclear who this was supposed to be aimed at. Also there was a couple of (kind of) rhyming sentences at the beginning that were introduced then dropped which confused me on the structure of the storytelling. It felt like a random addition that didn’t really work for me.
June 6, 2022
Un libro súper divertido, con un mensaje sobre el podré de la palabra y el cuidado de los animales tan genial, que viviré recomendándoselo a todos los niños. Además, la trama en sí es muy entretenida y adictiva. Quien sea que lo lea a la edad que sea, le va a encargar. El autor sabe como darnos una trama infantil con toques adultos, para que cualquier lector lo disfrute.
May 1, 2023
Lo que me habrían encantado estos libros de pequeña… Es la mar de sorprendente, original y divertido, y me ha alucinado cada giro argumental 🖤
October 22, 2021
I have to say, content aside, these covers always blow my socks off. I previously read Zombierella and really enjoyed it, but it was a total cover buy at first. Frankenstiltskin wouldn't be any different if I hadn't received it as an advanced review copy - the covers are just awesome! Incidentally, this is also the books biggest failing, because whilst the illustrations inside are also really great they're entirely in black and white which to me totally misses a trick!
Rumplestiltskin is doing the rounds at the moment isn't he? There are tons of retellings or reimaginings of his tale. This is no different, but with a sprinkling of frankenstein twist. I really like the way that Joseph Coelho tells a story and blends it with another (or two) - totally compelling and utterly impossible to put down. Plus, who can resist a cover like that?
ARC provided from the publishers in exchange for an honest review.
Rumplestiltskin is doing the rounds at the moment isn't he? There are tons of retellings or reimaginings of his tale. This is no different, but with a sprinkling of frankenstein twist. I really like the way that Joseph Coelho tells a story and blends it with another (or two) - totally compelling and utterly impossible to put down. Plus, who can resist a cover like that?
ARC provided from the publishers in exchange for an honest review.
January 6, 2026
This was such a FUN read! It's a fairytale mashup, written in verse, with amazing illustrations. I won't say this is for everyone but it was definitely for ME...and if it's for you then you probably already knew just seeing the cover. I have the other two books in the series and can't wait to read them.
March 27, 2023
I really need to read more middle grade for the whimsical escapism more often!
March 1, 2023
Una historia entretenida, con un mensaje bonito de amor hacia los animales, unas ilustraciones maravillosas, y una narración muy original.
February 16, 2022
Excellent 'mash-up', featuring death and decay but... wholesomely?
I've read one of this series before, and really enjoy the dark way it's twisted to still be palatable and child-friendly, but with just the right amount of gleeful gruesomeness and morbidity.
Sound like your child may like? A mix of - well - Rumpelstiltskin and Frankenstein, a taxidermist called Bryony is forced to go and work for the King after her father boasts her skills with a needle can 'bring your pets back to life'. There's hype for you.
Following the formula and story well known in the fairy tale, she must prove her skill to retain her breathing privileges - but why? What does the king want? And who is the little creature so keen to help her?
Not many children's stories feature taxidermists. It also manages to talk about animal conservation and grief, so really does cover quite a lot.
Half text and half illustration (the stitches and ickyness of the subject matter are nicely conveyed in these), this flies by, only taking a short time to read. Short chapters make it suitable for newly confident readers as well, but the subject may still appeal to those at the end of Primary school.
Fab idea for a series, and neither too babyish as a fairy tale or too mature in its subject matter. Just right.
For ages 6-11.
With thanks to Walker Books for providing a sample reading copy.
I've read one of this series before, and really enjoy the dark way it's twisted to still be palatable and child-friendly, but with just the right amount of gleeful gruesomeness and morbidity.
Sound like your child may like? A mix of - well - Rumpelstiltskin and Frankenstein, a taxidermist called Bryony is forced to go and work for the King after her father boasts her skills with a needle can 'bring your pets back to life'. There's hype for you.
Following the formula and story well known in the fairy tale, she must prove her skill to retain her breathing privileges - but why? What does the king want? And who is the little creature so keen to help her?
Not many children's stories feature taxidermists. It also manages to talk about animal conservation and grief, so really does cover quite a lot.
Half text and half illustration (the stitches and ickyness of the subject matter are nicely conveyed in these), this flies by, only taking a short time to read. Short chapters make it suitable for newly confident readers as well, but the subject may still appeal to those at the end of Primary school.
Fab idea for a series, and neither too babyish as a fairy tale or too mature in its subject matter. Just right.
For ages 6-11.
With thanks to Walker Books for providing a sample reading copy.
October 17, 2025
Bryony is a very skilled taxidermist just like her father. Everyone in Mythica knows their talent, but when the King hears about the girl's special gifts, he practically kidnaps her to work on his amusing 'projects'. The issue is, he expects that Bryony is able to bring the animals back to life! And although she explains that to the King, he doesn't really care. When troubled by what she should do about that, the girl meets a strange creature that promises to solve all her problems so she can go back home.
An amazing, gripping and surprising version of Rumpelstiltskin! I loved this one just like the other Fairy Tales Gone Bad! ❤️ It is so, so clever, I feel like to suggesting to everyone. It would be delightful if these stories were translated (with a lot of care to make it as special as the original one)! I can't get enough of these adorable illustrations!
An amazing, gripping and surprising version of Rumpelstiltskin! I loved this one just like the other Fairy Tales Gone Bad! ❤️ It is so, so clever, I feel like to suggesting to everyone. It would be delightful if these stories were translated (with a lot of care to make it as special as the original one)! I can't get enough of these adorable illustrations!
October 31, 2023
We loved this! It lead to many interesting discussions and I like how the illustrations meant that the language, which is quite challenging at times, feels easier for my 6 year old to understand.
It's so nice to have a kids book that:
1. Focuses on the importance of nature and the environment
2. Isn't centred on a romantic relationship
3. Has a black female protagonist
4. Has a protagonist whose race isn't the main topic and is incidental to the story. So many children's books with black protagonists are then also about racism and whilst that is important, it's also good for young kids to read texts where the race of the characters isn't automatically coupled with racist themes. It felt an empowering and forward thinking children's book.
It's so nice to have a kids book that:
1. Focuses on the importance of nature and the environment
2. Isn't centred on a romantic relationship
3. Has a black female protagonist
4. Has a protagonist whose race isn't the main topic and is incidental to the story. So many children's books with black protagonists are then also about racism and whilst that is important, it's also good for young kids to read texts where the race of the characters isn't automatically coupled with racist themes. It felt an empowering and forward thinking children's book.
April 9, 2023
Did I enjoy it?
Yes.
Is it as good as Zombierella?
No.
Was it a bit contrived?
Yes.
A bit forced?
Yes.
Did it need to be?
No.
And how Coelho has got away with his Librarian - who is clearly a rip of of the crypt keeper and the projectionist from Gruesome Tales for Gruesome Kids - I have no idea.
Perhaps I’m looking for too much… it wasn’t even really a tale gone bad, or a version of Rumplestiltskin (which as a fairy tale needs a lot more love!)
Look, it was easy and fun…
But well, I guess I’m not the audience am I!
Yes.
Is it as good as Zombierella?
No.
Was it a bit contrived?
Yes.
A bit forced?
Yes.
Did it need to be?
No.
And how Coelho has got away with his Librarian - who is clearly a rip of of the crypt keeper and the projectionist from Gruesome Tales for Gruesome Kids - I have no idea.
Perhaps I’m looking for too much… it wasn’t even really a tale gone bad, or a version of Rumplestiltskin (which as a fairy tale needs a lot more love!)
Look, it was easy and fun…
But well, I guess I’m not the audience am I!
November 11, 2023
“Frankenstiltskin” es un libro infantil que mezcla las historias clásicas de Rumpelstiltskin y Frankestein de una manera poética y novedosa. Es el segundo libro que leo de esta saga de cuentos de hadas clásicos, versiones estropeadas. Considero que estamos ante una joya, el libro es fresco, entretenido, innovador y está acompañado de unas ilustraciones increíbles. Si bien es un libro para chicos es de ese tipo de historias que pueden ser disfrutadas por personas de todas las edades.
October 9, 2021
I really enjoyed this creepy, dark fairy tale take. Rumplestiltskin is one of my favourite fairytales and I don’t think it gets enough love. When Bryony needs the help of a strange creature to save her from the king’s ire, she ends up with more than she bargained for! Gorgeous illustrations by Freya!
May 10, 2022
Se podría decir que es un retelling de “Rumpelstiltskin” con un toque más fantástico, tiene muchas ilustraciones las cuales hacen más fácil su lectura. Está contando en prosa, al principio me costo pero ya después me resultó fácil y me gusto.
Me la pase muy bien leyéndolo, se lee súper rápido, recomendado para todas las edades. Aparte toca temas importantes como el cuidado de la naturaleza.
Me la pase muy bien leyéndolo, se lee súper rápido, recomendado para todas las edades. Aparte toca temas importantes como el cuidado de la naturaleza.
October 28, 2021
3.5 stars
A really quick but brilliant read! I shall be putting this book in our school library.
A really quick but brilliant read! I shall be putting this book in our school library.
May 19, 2022
Me gustó esta historia, muy tierna donde el mal recibe su castigo.
Brionia es una jovencita audaz y muy inteligente y talentosa
Se me hizo muy tierna y divertida
Brionia es una jovencita audaz y muy inteligente y talentosa
Se me hizo muy tierna y divertida
November 17, 2022
Inventive and ambitious with eye-popping illustrations and some modern morals. Still, a little overstuffed with plot to my liking.
October 16, 2023
Cawpile: 7.93 4*
July 23, 2025
"dark" fairy tales should always include taxidermy and a ramshackle dead animal.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews