Hansel and Gretel: A Great Fall and Halloween Read for Kids

A Darkly Enchanting Fairy Tale ReimaginedHansel & Gretel by Stephen King and illustrated by Maurice Sendak is a haunting triumph of storytelling and art. King brings his trademark mastery of suspense and psychological depth to one of the oldest fairy tales, weaving a narrative that is at once chilling and surprisingly tender. His prose dances between menace and wonder, creating a forest that feels alive with shadowy secrets and human fears. The witch’s house—equal parts temptation and terror—is described with a detail that lingers long after the final page.Sendak’s illustrations elevate the story to something unforgettable. Every drawing is alive with texture and atmosphere: crooked trees claw at the sky, the gingerbread house glows with an inviting yet ominous light, and Hansel and Gretel’s wide-eyed bravery shines through the darkness. His artwork balances the grotesque and the beautiful, perfectly matching King’s layered storytelling.What makes this collaboration remarkable is how it respects the intelligence of its readers, both young and old. King doesn’t shy away from the tale’s darker elements, but instead uses them to explore themes of resilience, sibling love, and the courage to face the unknown. Sendak’s art amplifies these emotions, turning each page into an experience of discovery and dread.Final ThoughtsThis book is more than a retelling—it’s a celebration of what fairy tales are meant to be: thrilling, unsettling, and deeply human. Hansel & Gretel by Stephen King and Maurice Sendak is a must-have for fans of dark fantasy, classic folklore, and exquisite illustration. It’s a story you’ll want to revisit, each reading revealing new shadows and new light.

What a great new version!! Just-right-creepy Stephen King narrative sticks to the familiar storyline, and the wonderful Sendak illustrations are amazing, adding to the creep factor and the charm. Just in time for Halloween. 🎃

Great storytelling and beautiful graphics.

Stephen King has done a great job of making the story fit the artwork. It was a fun read and took me back to my childhood.

A wonderful experience for you eyes! Stephen King did an amazing job bringing the story to life while incorporating Maurice Sendak’s amazing art.

Beautiful book, physically and visually. A pleasure under the hand, to the touch, and a feast for the eyes. And the words of Mr. King are wonderful as well. Well worth the money.

The artwork pulled from the work of Maurice Sendak on most pages has been hugely enlarged to fit the pages. It is therefore blurry. If you were looking for a beautiful picture book, you’ll be disappointed. It is very black and gray and ugly. Black and white illustrations can be beautiful. See the Garden of Abdul Gasazi for example.

Good shorts read.....children's fairy tale told in true King fashion......awesome artwork with this one too.