The Witch's Boy

The novelized fairy tale is a rich and growing genre, and this is a more than worthy entry. In the original Grimm story there is little reason for the appearance of the little man, his offer to help, or his demand for the woman's first baby. His help at first seems generous, and after he unreasonably demands her first born he gives her a way out. But when she succeeds in guessing his name, he tears himself in half. Very strange behavior. A member of the Actor's Studio would have reason to ask, "What's the motivation?"

Author Michael Gruber provides a thorough backstory that explains all, as well as an after-the-fairy-tale ending that wraps things up a little too easily. Lyrically written, engrossing, at time humorous, though a bit overlong, this vivid reimagining is as prickly and unpredictable as Rumplestiltskin himself.