This is a fabulous collection of poems based on well-known fairy tales and nursery rhymes - but with a modern point of view and a wry, often grim twist. Imagine an advice columnist responding to the wife in "Bluebeard", or Hansel and Gretel's appearance in juvenile court... Here's a sample from the poem based on the story of the princess and the frog, as told by her parents:

"...
As for that fairy tale she likes to tell
About the frog who scrambled from the well
And gave her back her ball (all dripping wet),
Then turned into a Prince (that's how they met),
We know he's not a Prince; the point is this:
Our poor romantic daughter thinks he is."

Some of the takes are very funny, but nearly always disquieting. (There's a poem based on "Old Mother Hubbard," from her dog's point of view - sounds goofy but it's utterly heart-rending.) I re-read the poems often, and thoroughly enjoy them. Recommended!

Hay's collection of poetry explores many of the well-known fairy tales, nursery rhymes and fables from our childhood. While other poets, such as Anne Sexton, have been focused on adult audiences, Hay's poetry can be used with younger audiences, too. The book is filled with themes which adults can enjoy, however. The collection offers inspiration to poets to explore the themes in the folklore of our childhoods with grace and charm. Happily ever after is not expected by Hay, but she does not express a hopeless future either. The characters from the tales deal with the potential realities that come after their original "happily ever afters."