The Language of Thorns by Leigh Bardugo Published by Hachette Australia Source: Publisher
Genres: Young Adult, Fairy Tales & Folklore, Fantasy
Amazon | Book Depository | Publisher | Angus & Robertson | Booktopia | Barnes & Noble
Add to Goodreads
Love speaks in flowers. Truth requires thorns.
Travel to a world of dark bargains struck by moonlight, of haunted towns and hungry woods, of talking beasts and gingerbread golems, where a young mermaid's voice can summon deadly storms and where a river might do a lovestruck boy's bidding but only for a terrible price.
Inspired by myth, fairy tale, and folklore, no. 1 New York Times-bestselling author Leigh Bardugo has crafted a deliciously atmospheric collection of short stories filled with betrayals, revenge, sacrifice, and love.
Perfect for new readers and dedicated fans, these tales will transport you to lands both familiar and strange - to a fully realized world of dangerous magic that millions have visited through the novels of the Grishaverse.
This collection of six stories includes three brand-new tales, all of them lavishly illustrated with art that changes with each turn of the page, culminating in six stunning full-spread illustrations as rich in detail as the stories themselves.
Ever read a fairy tale and thought…that’s not really a lesson I want to teach my kids?
Well here you have The Language of Thorns, one that modernises classic fairytales and adds in unexpected, darker twists that are real dangers today. From unexpected predators, to questionable morals, oppressive males and enemies hiding from within, all of these dangers are explored in The Language of Thorns.
The fairytale anthology felt both familiar and new, with refreshing twists on classic fairytales like Beauty and the Beast, The Little Mermaid and Pinnochio. These beloved fairytales are elegantly flipped on their heads, offering unexpected endings. Ever wondered why the Witch was villainised in Hansel and Gretel? Or about the pain that Ariel must’ve felt when her tail was foregone for feet? These are just some of the additions that are added into The Language of Thorns.
Each of the stories are centered around a particular lesson, always showing that things aren’t always as they seem. From learning that the most unexpected faces could be of help, like in The Witch of Duva, to female empowerment and choosing choice over oppression, like in Little Knife, I adored each and every one of these fairytales.
I loved the magic and the Grisha mythology that was featured heavily in this book. There are so many magical and whimsical beings from tricksters, to mermaids, witches, and talking oceans. I recognised some of the places mentioned in Six of Crows, but there’s still plenty to discover here. You definitely don’t need to read the rest of the series to pick this up, as the short stories stand on their own.
The gorgeous illustrations by Sara Kipin add a whole extra dimension to the story, evolving with every page turn. They are beautiful to gaze at, rendering the entire book a work of art that should have a place on every book lover’s shelf.
The Language of Thorns offers a dark, modern twist on classic fairytales, heeding to modern day dangers lurking around every corner. The stunning, modern day fairytale collection is one that takes pride of place on my shelf, one that I hope to be sharing for generations to come.
Rating: 5 out of 5
Thanks to Hachette Australia for sending me a review copy! The exclusive Fairyloot edition has been pictured and is not available anywhere else.
The Language of Thorns is available from Australian bookstores for RRP$19.99.
Latest posts by Jeann @ Happy Indulgence (see all)
- 5 Things I Liked About The Adventures of Amina al-Sirafi - June 20, 2024
- Kaldoras: The Medoran Chronicles Epilogue Review & Event - June 13, 2024
- 5 Thoughts About House of Flame and Shadow - March 28, 2024
I seriously need to read this! I’ve had a glimpse at the illustrations already and they are STUNNING, plus I’ve heard wonderful things. I haven’t read many short story collections or book spinoffs like this before, but I will be reading this one because I adore Bardugo’s writing and the Grisha world and mythology. I have an eARC so I really ought to have read it by now, but unfortunately university has got in the way. Hopefully I will find some time soon – I’m certain I’ll be buying myself a copy for christmas regardless!
Wonderful review, Jeann <3
Helia @ Rose Quartz Reads recently posted…Latest Love: Stranger Things (spoiler free ramblings!)
YESSSS it was such a stunning read and the illustrations totally added to the experience. I hope you’ll be able to pick it up Helia!
I have been longing to read the book!! The illustrations are just mind blowing. I can’t wait to read it
Resh recently posted…Remnants of a Separation by Aanchal Malhotra – The Book You have been Waiting for
I hope you enjoy it Resh, it was sooo stunning!
This sounds amazing! Now I’m super excited to read it! Although it sounds like you need a physical copy to fully enjoy the illustrations, so might have to treat myself to it 🙂
Absolutely, I think it’s totally worth it Sarah!
I absolutely loved this too Jeann! I kind of wish I had my own copy though, because the stories were marvelous along with the illustrations. Also I’m glad that I didn’t have to have read all of Leigh Bardugo’s books, because I have not yet. Whoops.
Valerie recently posted…Disappointing Reads of 2017
Oh my gosh, I hope you do get to pick up your own copy Val because it is GORGEOUS!
I’M SO EXCITED FOR THIS AND IT LOOKS O BEAUTIFUL AND AHHHHH. Honestly there is 0% reason why I haven’t read it yet. But *glares at TBR pile* I will get onto that before November is out at least. The illustrations are so so pretty!
Cait @ Paper Fury recently posted…How To Write The Perfect Book Review (And Not Eat A Brick Wall In Terror Of The Process)
OMG CAIT PICK IT UP NOW. QUICK READ. BEAUTIFUL READ.
This book looks so good and AHH now I definitely need to read it!
I hope you pick it up, it’s soooo good!
So looking forward to reading this!
It was so good Darque! I hope you enjoy it!
Thanks! I glanced at the illustrations and am already in love!
Glad you enjoyed it! I’ve read a few of the stories and my favorite are the Witch of Duva and the Too Clever Fox. I love the twists present in the stories, I always didn’t see them coming! Can’t wait to read the rest of the series! Great review Jeann!
tasya @ the literary huntress recently posted…Screen Rambles: October
Oh my gosh, I loved The Witch of Duva! They are sooo good. Thank you lovely!