Renowned horror novelist Stephen King has ventured into children’s literature with his latest release, a reimagined version of the classic fairy tale Hansel and Gretel. Published by HarperCollins on March 12, 2024, the book is now available in hardcover for $21.53, down from its original price of $27, at major retailers such as Walmart and Amazon.
Accompanying King’s storytelling are previously unpublished illustrations by the late Maurice Sendak, a celebrated author and illustrator known for his iconic work, Where the Wild Things Are. Sendak, who passed away in 2012, has left an indelible mark on children’s literature, and his artistry enhances King’s interpretation of this classic tale. The partnership with The Maurice Sendak Foundation emphasizes the creative collaboration behind this project.
Originally published in 1812 by the Brothers Grimm, Hansel and Gretel is one of the most influential stories featured in Grimms’ Fairy Tales. The narrative follows two siblings navigating a dark forest, where they encounter a witch living in a house made of sweets. This tale is particularly fitting for King, given his mastery of suspense and the uncanny, drawing parallels between the witch and his infamous character, Pennywise.
This new release is not King’s first foray into children’s literature. In 2016, he published Charlie the Choo-Choo under the pen name Beryl Evans. This story, originally part of King’s 1991 novel The Dark Tower III: The Waste Lands, was later transformed into an illustrated edition suitable for toddlers and preschoolers. The hardcover version of Charlie the Choo-Choo is currently priced at $14.66, down from $20 on Amazon.
King’s recent works for adult readers include the novel Never Flinch, released in May 2024, and an anthology titled The End of the World As We Know It, which features over 30 stories set in the universe of his novel The Stand. This anthology, published in August 2024, includes an introduction by King and is available for $21, marked down from $35.
For those interested in experiencing the new bedtime story in a different format, King has also narrated the audiobook edition of Hansel and Gretel, offering a unique experience for listeners. The combination of King’s captivating narrative style and Sendak’s enchanting illustrations makes this book a noteworthy addition to any child’s bookshelf.
As the literary world embraces this new chapter in King’s career, Hansel and Gretel stands out as a delightful and imaginative retelling, appealing not only to children but also to adults who appreciate classic fairy tales.
