7 Fairy Tale Books You Should Read In 2025

Fairy tales have always held a remarkable power over us. They entertain, teach, warn, inspire, and—perhaps most importantly—remind us that even in the darkest woods, a glimmer of hope can guide the way. In an age of rapid information and constant noise, revisiting fairy tales offers something deeply grounding. These stories help us understand courage, kindness, consequences, and the bittersweet complexity of being human.

Below is a list of 7 fairy tale books you should read in 2025. From ancient folklore to modern retellings, these books illuminate universal truths while inviting us into worlds full of wonder.

1. The Princess Bride – William Goldman

The Princess Bride is a witty, adventurous fairy-tale novel that blends romance, humor, and swashbuckling action. The story follows Buttercup and Westley through a world of villains, giants, pirates, and magic, combining classic fairy-tale motifs with modern narrative flair. Themes of true love, loyalty, courage, and cleverness shine throughout the narrative, offering readers timeless moral lessons wrapped in humor and suspense. Its unique meta-narrative style also examines storytelling itself, reminding us why fairy tales continue to enchant across generations.

2. Howl’s Moving Castle – Diana Wynne Jones

Diana Wynne Jones’ Howl’s Moving Castle blends whimsical fantasy with fairy-tale tradition, following Sophie, a young woman cursed to age prematurely, as she encounters the enigmatic wizard Howl. Jones explores themes of identity, self-confidence, and the redemptive power of love, while subverting traditional fairy-tale tropes with humor and intelligence. Her inventive narrative and rich characterizations make the tale captivating for both children and adults. Howl’s Moving Castle demonstrates the enduring ability of fairy tales to combine wonder, adventure, and emotional depth into a timeless story.

3. The Paper Bag Princess – Robert Munsch

The Paper Bag Princess is a modern feminist fairy tale that subverts traditional narratives. Princess Elizabeth rescues her prince from a dragon, only to challenge the notion that love and appearance define worth. Munsch’s witty, accessible storytelling empowers young readers, emphasizing intelligence, bravery, and independence over passive beauty. The book’s humor, clever plot twists, and memorable heroine have made it a staple in children’s literature. By blending moral lessons with playful narrative, The Paper Bag Princess teaches readers about self-respect, resilience, and challenging societal expectations, making it an essential and inspiring addition to contemporary fairy-tale collections.

4. The Last Unicorn – Peter S. Beagle

The Last Unicorn is a modern classic that elevates fairy-tale motifs into a richly poetic narrative. The story follows a unicorn on a quest to discover her lost kin, navigating a world filled with magic, danger, and human folly. Beagle blends melancholy, humor, and moral insight to explore themes of mortality, identity, and courage. His lyrical prose transforms a simple quest into a meditation on loss and hope, resonating with both young and adult readers. This novel is essential for anyone seeking fairy tales with philosophical depth, unforgettable characters, and timeless storytelling.

5. Ella Enchanted – Gail Carson Levine

Ella Enchanted is a modern retelling of the Cinderella story, infused with humor, adventure, and empowerment. The protagonist, cursed with obedience, must navigate a world of magical obstacles while discovering her inner strength and agency. Levine’s story subverts traditional fairy-tale tropes, presenting a heroine who is intelligent, resourceful, and determined to shape her own destiny. Themes of resilience, self-determination, and the importance of moral choice resonate deeply with readers of all ages.

6. The Tale of Despereaux – Kate DiCamillo

The Tale of Despereaux tells the story of a small, brave mouse who defies expectations to pursue honor, love, and justice. DiCamillo’s narrative is both whimsical and poignant, exploring themes of courage, forgiveness, and the power of storytelling. The book’s unique perspective—through the eyes of a tiny, underestimated hero—invites readers to consider how even the smallest beings can make a profound difference. With rich characterization, vivid imagery, and moral depth, this fairy tale transcends age, offering lessons about compassion, resilience, and the triumph of light over darkness. It’s an unforgettable, heartwarming modern classic.

7. The Bloody Chamber – Angela Carter

Angela Carter’s The Bloody Chamber is a masterfully written collection that reimagines classic fairy tales through a feminist, gothic, and psychologically complex lens. Her retellings—most notably of Bluebeard, Little Red Riding Hood, and Puss in Boots—invert traditional power dynamics and illuminate the darker underpinnings of desire, identity, and autonomy. Carter’s lush, evocative prose adds sensuality and intensity to familiar stories, transforming them into bold explorations of gender and agency. This book is essential for understanding how fairy tales can be reinterpreted to challenge social norms and reveal hidden truths. It’s a compelling, haunting, and intellectually rich experience.

Conclusion

These 7 fairy tale books you should read represent a rich tapestry of global storytelling. They connect us to our past while offering timeless lessons for the present. Whether you’re seeking classic tales, modern retellings, or stories from around the world, each book provides a unique lens through which to understand human resilience, creativity, and longing.

As we navigate challenges in our own lives, fairy tales give us courage, wisdom, and the reassuring message that transformation is always possible. So open one of these books, step into a world of wonder, and rediscover the magic that lives within each of us.