The Sleeper and The Spindle

Reviewed by: Brooke Faulkner - McArthur Public Library, Biddeford, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: May 11, 2016

Review

This short, intricately illustrated tale riffs on fairy tales and folk literature, turning Sleeping Beauty on her head in unexpected ways. A queen of a small kingdom, ambivalent about her impending marriage, sets off with three dwarves to save the land from an insidious sleep sickness that is spreading, leaving those effected by it in a sort of trance from which they never wake. Evenutally pursued by the sleeping in scenes reminiscent of zombie hordes, the group makes its way to a tower where they find a sleeping young woman and an old crone. What follows is a cleverly triumphant reworking of traditional tales that nods to both Sleeping Beauty and Snow White and one that constructs a satisfying sense of agency for each of the women involved. Teen and adults who favor fairy fale reboots will love this and its succint evocative writing will spur the audience on. Riddell's lovely and precise black and white line drawings are embellished with gold accents and compliment the tone of this short story. Previous knowledge of the traditional tales that are referenced will add some depth for readers, but is not a necessity. A playful and wise offering, beautifully illustrated by Riddell and written by master storyteller Gaiman.

Overall Book Score: very good