What if heroes were celebrated for the power of their hearts instead of their swords? What if the stereotypes and moulds of a prince charming were broken down and rediscovered to reveal stories of magic and bravery, hard-work and creativity.
In this stunning anthology - elegantly presented in a green, clothbound hardback edition with beautiful gold-toned metallic debossing - author Vita Murrow explores these 'what if's' through 15 favourite fairytales reimagined and retold for a new generation.
King Arthur, Tom Thumb, Hercules, Sinbad, Quasimodo, Rumplestilskin and Anansi are just a few of the heroes who grace the pages of High-Five to the Hero in their kind, caring and considerate personas.
Rich in detail and moral, Murrow does away with the typical masculinity and 'knight in shining armour' displayed in the original tales and instead uplifts boys and embraces their empathy, heart and purpose by introducing issues of self-image, confidence, LGBTQ, friendship, advocacy, and disability. Within the pages we see Quasimodo embraces his differences and in doing so creates a sanctuary for those in need, King Arthur ends a war through the power of communication and the importance of listening, and Prince Charming, done with always getting the same casting roles, turns the spotlight onto others and their uniqueness in a hit play!
It's refreshing to read a collection of tales celebrating boy power through a clear lens that commends masculinity and heroism by heart, spirit and empathy, and not by the number of damsels that are rescued or dragons that are slayed.
With charming illustrations by Julia Bereciartu these positive tales will no doubt have a positive impact on all those who read it.
'What struck me the most was that the story of what makes a hero, a prince, or a king, is the story of what anyone can be. A hero is courageous of heart and gentle with themselves and others. A king feels deeply, listen actively, and laughs wholly with their community. A prince is a game changer who casts off expectations to fulfil their own purpose.'
- Vita Murrow
Vita Murrow is also of the author of, Power to the Princess: 15 Favourite Fairytales Retold with Girl Power.
What if princesses didn't always marry Prince Charming and live happily every after?
Like Snow White, who gets on with her stepmother just fine (in the end). And Belle the Brave, whose open heart helps her become a member of the Fairyland Police. And Prime Minister Cinderella, who just wants to help everyone have a better life. These fifteen girls are smart, funny, and kind, and can do anything they set their minds to. Power to the princess!