Let's clear something up right away: this isn't a single story. It's the famous 1697 collection that gave us the classic versions of Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty, Little Red Riding Hood, Puss in Boots, and Bluebeard, among others. Perrault didn't invent these tales from scratch—he polished up old folk stories for the sophisticated French court of his time. The plot of each one is probably familiar: a girl meets a prince, a cat outsmarts everyone, a curious wife opens a forbidden door. But the journey there is where the old magic lives.

Why You Should Read It

Reading Perrault is like finding the original recipe for your favorite cake and discovering it includes ingredients no one uses anymore. The versions here are spikier and less sentimental. Little Red Riding Hood gets eaten. The moral? Don't talk to strangers. Cinderella's sisters mutilate their feet to fit the slipper. The takeaway? Beauty is a treasure, but graciousness is priceless. These aren't just stories; they are social lessons wrapped in fantasy. Seeing where these cultural giants began—before they were softened for modern kids—is genuinely thrilling. It connects you directly to the fears, hopes, and advice of 17th-century France.

Final Verdict

This book is perfect for anyone who loves folklore, enjoys a bit of historical gossip (these tales were court satire!), or is simply curious about the DNA of modern storytelling. It’s a must-read for writers and a fantastic, quick read for anyone who wants to say, 'I know how the story *really* goes.' Just maybe don't read 'Bluebeard' right before bed.