Retellings are some of my favorite things to read and write, and I know I’m not alone in my love for them. Here are some tips for writing a retelling, whether of a fairy tale or classic novel: 

*Read the original

This might seem a little obvious, but refresh yourself on the original story. Project Gutenberg has most public domain books in their collection. And if it isn’t there, it might be worth double-checking that the story you want to retell is actually in the public domain. 😉 

You might find details in the original that spark a spin you could put on the story—this ties into asking “What if” (which we’ll talk about next)—or you might realize that the original is different from a movie you grew up watching and need to rethink some ideas. 

*What is a twist on a key component from the original? 

Most retellings have a key twist on an element from the original tale that often leads to the other twists. Often, this change can be phrased as a question. For instance, in Princess of the Midnight Ball, the key change is the question is, “What if the princesses *had* to dance?”  Ask yourself “What if?” and don’t be afraid to flip something on its head. This can lead to fresh and original ideas! 

*Change the genre

Throwing a retelling into a different genre can really freshen up a familiar story and let you use classic elements in a new way. In my short story “SPINDLE,” I put Sleeping Beauty in space. From there I asked myself “What if?” questions on what the original elements would look like in the future in space. Changing the genre led to me coming up with a unique spin on the sleeping curse and true love’s kiss. 

Do you prefer retellings of fairy tales or classic novels? What’s one of your favorites?