Once Upon A Realm: Remixed Fairy Tales by Diverse Voices

Six authors of Black and/or Latina backgrounds offer fresh takes on classic fairy tales in this YA anthology

The traditional, classic fairy tales we view as “tales as old as time” have been reimagined time and time again, growing from dark and dangerous cautionary tales to the feel-good love stories we consume as children. Despite these revisions, it seems as though many popular fairy tales are still confined to portraying only one type of heroine, often a slim, wealthy princess with skin as white as snow.

In Once Upon A Realm, familiar fairy tales are reenvisioned and reborn as six authors from Black and/or Latina backgrounds create novella-length stories that transport readers to fantasy, sci-fi, and dystopian worlds. Each story shatters stereotypes and challenges traditional narratives, inviting readers to see themselves reflected in tales of adventure, magic, romance, and strength. Fans of The Lunar Chronicles, A Blade So Black, A Curse So Dark and Lonely, and Cinderella is Dead will fall in love with these fresh takes on fairy tales.

This collection was published by Diverse Books With Magic, a 5,000+ member online community that aims to highlight and uplift marginalized voices in speculative fiction. The group hosts virtual author interviews and online events. Members of this group have previously collaborated and published two anthologies: Girls of Might and Magic and Kindred Kingdoms.

Once Upon A Realm will be available in ebook and paperback format on May 24, 2024. The ebook is available for preorder from select retailers, including Apple, Barnes and Noble, and Baker & Taylor.

This collection includes:

Red in the Woods by K. R. S. McEntire, inspired by Little Red Riding Hood

Shadow and Song by Montrez, inspired by Peter Pan

Circuits and Nerve by Alicia Ellis, inspired by Hansel and Gretel

These Sapphire Walls by Krystina Coles, inspired by Bluebeard

A Bloodstained Sun by E. M. Lacey, inspired by Snow White

Waking Up by R. L. Medina, inspired by Sleeping Beauty

Published by: Diverse Books With Magic

Edited by: Curly Tales Publishing Services

Curated by: Keshia McEntire

Release date: May 24, 2024