Once upon a time, there was a reader who was bored of reading countless retellings of popular fairytales like Cinderella and Beauty and the Beast. She wanted variety, and obscure, bizarre fairy tales. And so she came up with this list. 

Here are some of my picks for lesser-known fairytales – 

1. The Six Swans (from the Brothers Grimm)

As all fairytales start, this one also begins with a Once upon a time, a King and an evil Queen. The best retelling I have read of this fairytale is ceratinly Six Crimson Cranes by Elizabeth Lim. (The sequel, The Dragon’s Promise, comes out August 30th, 2022.)

Read the full story here.   

2. Thumbelina (from Hans Christian Andersen)

As far as fairytales go, this one is certainly quite dark. What with men trying to constantly force themselves on Thumbelina and abducting her. But hey, that just means you can use your imagination and write a feminist retelling with a kick-ass heroine. I would pick that up in a heartbeat, just saying!

Read the full story here. 

3. The Devil with the Three Golden Hairs (from Brothers Grimm)

From very early in my life, I remember my grandmother telling me this story. And up until I started doing research on Fairytales, I always thought she made it up because that’s how underrated this story is. There’s a prophecy of a commoner marrying the princess and a petulant, angry King. If you want a story of a charming, mischievous young man going on an adventure, then this is the story for you. 

Read the full story here. 

4. Prince Lindworm (from Asbjornsen and Moe)

Now as far as obscure Fairytales and Folklore go, this one is certainly the most bizarre one I have ever read. 

Helpful witches? Check 

A handsome prince? Check 

A great serpent for an older brother? Che— Wait, what?

I will certainly leave the reimagining of this story up to you. 

Read the full story here. 

5. Snow-White and Rose-Red (from Brothers Grimm)

Not to be confused with Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. Although it does feature a dwarf as well—an evil one to be specific.

This is a tale of sisterly love and familial bond comes from German Folklore. Shy, introverted Snow-White and Outgoing, exroverted Rose-Red love each other and their mother very much. It’s a fairytale that teaches the reader the importance of being grateful and showing someone kindness in their time of need. 

Read the full story here.

Retellings are the best way to relive and reinvent some old favourites. So grab a muug of tea, put on your thinking cap and get cracking!