Old fairy tales are interesting. Their origins are often unknown, and many of the oldest written tales were very dark and frightening, meant more for the adult audience than for children.

Fast-forward to more modern times, some of these tales were “cleaned-up,” “sanitized” into what adults thought would be appropriate for children.

To some extent, the sweetened versions of some of these tales simply make for a fun story. However, removing all darkness from all tales told to children gives them an unrealistic view of life, for life is not one happy, easy moment after another.

Today's reviewed books provide different twists on fairy tales we know. Check them out; I think you'll agree.

The following book is available at many public libraries.“A Tale Dark and Grimm” by Adam Gidwitz, Dutton, 251 pages; read aloud: age 9 and older; read yourself: age 10 and older.For those who thought they knew the charming fairy tale of Hansel and Gretel, you're in for a surprise.This story adheres to the original tale — one that hasn't been sweetened and sanitized and is, therefore, not cute at all. In fact, it's violent, often bloody, and unlike the sweet version, never, ever boring.Weaving the original Hansel and Gretel with other Grimm fairy tales, author Adam Gidwitz provides a refreshing story that is bold and frightening, encouraging and wise, and above all, a story that helps children find out the meaning of things.As the author says, “You see, the land of Grimm can be a harrowing place. But it is worth exploring. For, in life, it is in the darkest zones one finds the brightest and the most luminous wisdom.”Peppered with humor throughout, “A Tale Dark and Grimm” is extraordinary in multiple, important ways.

Library: Prospect Community Library, 357 Main St., ProspectLibrary Director: Lou PocchiariChildren's Librarian: Jill HambleyChoices this week: “Elmer” by David McKee; “How I Became a Pirate” by Melinda Long; “Old Black Fly” by Jim Aylesworth

The following books are available at favorite bookstores.“The Worst Princess” by Anna Kemp, illustrated by Sara Ogilvie, Random House, 2014, 32 pages, $17 hardcover; read aloud: age 4 and older; read yourself: age 7 and 8.Princess Sue, imprisoned in a tall tower, had read the books and knew she had to wait for a prince to come and rescue her. She was, however, tired of waiting. After all, the world was big and exciting and Princess Sue longed to explore it and have wonderful adventures.When her prince finally showed up, Princess Sue was elated, but not for long. What she had thought would be bliss was the opposite — the prince was quite conventional and old-fashioned. Well, Princess Sue would have none of that, and the prince was in for a big surprise.A funny twist on the classic fairy tale Rapunzel, this story is pitch-perfect.“Cinderelephant” written and illustrated by Emma Dodd, Arthur A. Levine, 2013, 32 pages, $17 hardcover; read aloud: age 4 and older; read yourself: age 7 and 8.Cinderella takes on a gigantic new proportion in this funny tale, Cinderelephant.Cinderelephant’s life was miserable. She (a VERY large elephant) lived with her two horrible warthog cousins, known as the Warty Sisters. They were rude and mean and made Cinderelephant do all of the household chores that kept her busy all day and well into the night.When an invitation arrived from the palace announcing a ball that all girls were invited to attend so Prince Trunky could find a girlfriend, the Warty Sisters were very excited.So, too, was Cinderelephant, but she was quickly informed by her cousins that Cinderelephant definitely could not go.Then the cousins laughed, exclaiming, “Whoever would want to dance with you?” Little did the Warty Sisters know that Cinderelephant would attend the ball, would dance with the prince, and would win his heart (all with the help of Cinderelephant’s Furry Godmouse, of course).A funny story with equally funny illustrations, this clever twist on Cinderella will amuse youngsters on every page.Nationally syndicated, Kendal Rautzhan writes and lectures on children’s literature. She can be reached at kendal@sunlink.net.