Kissing the Witch: Old Tales in New Skins Summary of Emma Donoghue's Book

Kissing the Witch: Old Tales in New Skins by Emma Donoghue

First published on May 1, 1997, Kissing the Witch by Emma Donoghue is a collection of thirteen reimagined fairy tales that transports readers into a world where familiar stories are turned on their heads. As acclaimed Irish author Emma Donoghue weaves together these tales, readers are introduced to heroines both young and old who form unexpected alliances, face treacherous situations, and navigate their way through courage and resilience. With a touch of sensuality and truth, these age-old characters shed their antiquated cloaks and venture into a new landscape filled with transformation and empowerment.

Characters

Cinderella: In Donoghue's version of the classic tale, Cinderella forsakes the handsome prince and runs off with her fairy godmother, choosing her own path instead of conforming to societal expectations.

Beauty: In a retelling of Beauty and the Beast, Beauty discovers that the Beast behind the mask is not so different from the face she sees in the mirror, challenging perceptions of inner and outer beauty.

Snow White: Snow White is awakened from her slumber not by a prince's kiss, but by the bittersweet fruit of an unnamed desire, showcasing themes of awakening and self-discovery.

Detailed Summary

Kissing the Witch is a collection of interconnected stories that delve into themes of power, transformation, and the importance of choosing one's own path. Donoghue's retellings of these fairy tales give agency to women of all ages, allowing them to tell their own stories of love, hate, honor, revenge, passion, and deception.

Through intricate patterns and oral rhythms reminiscent of traditional fairy tales, Emma Donoghue brings these age-old characters to life in new and vibrant ways. Each story in the collection is a standalone gem, but when read together, they create a rich tapestry of narratives that challenge conventions and celebrate the strength and resilience of women.

Analysis

Emma Donoghue's Kissing the Witch offers readers a fresh perspective on familiar tales, breathing new life into stories that have been passed down through generations. By reimagining these fairy tales with modern sensibilities and a feminist twist, Donoghue invites readers to reconsider the roles of women in traditional narratives and to embrace themes of self-discovery, empowerment, and agency.

Throughout the collection, Donoghue explores the complexities of human relationships, the power of love and desire, and the importance of forging one's own path in a world filled with challenges and obstacles. By placing women at the center of these stories and allowing them to take control of their own destinies, Donoghue offers a refreshing perspective that celebrates female strength and resilience.

Overall, Kissing the Witch is a captivating and thought-provoking collection that will appeal to readers who enjoy fairy tales with a contemporary twist. With its lyrical prose, compelling characters, and innovative storytelling, this book is sure to enchant and inspire readers of all ages.

Final thoughts

If you are a fan of fairy tales and enjoy stories that challenge conventions and celebrate female empowerment, then Kissing the Witch by Emma Donoghue is a must-read. Whether you are familiar with the original tales or are discovering them for the first time, this collection offers a fresh and exciting take on classic stories that will capture your imagination and leave you wanting more.

So, if you enjoyed this brief summary, consider purchasing the complete book to dive deeper into Emma Donoghue's magical world of reimagined fairy tales. Alternatively, you can listen to the audiobook for a captivating storytelling experience that will transport you into a world where old tales are given new life.

9780064407724 (ISBN10: 0064407721)