About the Book and Author
This is the second twisted fairy-tale from Gina Blaxhill. This time a variation of the classic tale of brother and sister Hansel and Gretel who meet a witch in the woods who lives in a house made of gingerbread.
Gina Blaxill is a YA author. Her latest latest books are feminist thriller You Can Trust Me (Scholastic, 2022) and fairy tale retellings Good Enough to Eat (2022), a twisty take on Hansel and Gretel, and All The Better To See You, a Red Riding Hood whodunnit (2021). She’s also written three crime-thrillers with Macmillan – Pretty Twisted (2011), Forget Me Never (2012) and Saving Silence (2013). Find out more about her on her website.
Book Review
It is a re-telling of the Hansel and Gretel story with a twist
This book is definitely not a book I would have picked up for myself as I feel the cover is aimed more at girls my age but, actually, I enjoyed reading it!
It is a re-telling of the Hansel and Gretel story with a twist. It reminded me of the Cruella movie, a strong girl who wanted more and had to cross some lines to get it.
I did not like Gretel for most of the story and I am not sure you are supposed to which I found very different for a main character. She just seemed very selfish and uncaring but by the end I understood that she became who she needed to be to get what she wanted. I still didn’t really like her at the end but I understood her more.
Hansel was a sad character but I didn’t feel sorry for him as he watched his sister get bullied and did nothing. He seemed like a lot of people who are happy to keep quiet as long as they are not the target.
I liked Jakob, he was adventurous and fun. He went to find the witch because he was bored and wanted to stand up to his father. He seemed to be a loyal friend to Gretel though, even when her betrayal is revealed and I liked the way he stood up for his sister too. I would like to read a follow up with him and Gretel.
Overall a good book, perfect for anyone over 11, especially if you like twisted fairy-tales or the Disney villain series.
If you would would like to buy a copy of the book we invite you to order it from your local independent book shop.
Or, you can shop on-line and support our Kids Reviews page by sourcing your discounted book via this link
Alternatively, we suggest that you visit your local library and request to borrow a copy from a friendly librarian.
Whichever you choose we hope you enjoy being part of your unique reading community – happy reading everyone!
Reviewer Profile
- Name: Ryan
- Age: 11 years
- Likes: Lego, Dragonball Z and reading
- Dislikes: Being woken up and losing on computer games!
- Favourite Book: Tom Gates: Dog Zombie Rules by Liz Pichon
- Favourite Song: The Final Countdown by Queen
- Favourite Film: Dragonball Z: Super Battle of the Gods
