Publishing New Versions of Classic Fairytales: A Guide for Writers

If you’ve thought of creative new versions of beloved classic fairytales, you might wonder how to go about publishing them. This guide will help you navigate the process and understand what to send to publishers.

Understanding the Publishing Requirements

When submitting new versions of classic fairytales for publication, it’s crucial to understand the requirements and considerations. Publishers generally want completed works rather than just the modifications you’ve made. Providing the entire story ensures that the publisher can review the overall narrative, tone, and style that align with their standards.

Should You Send the Whole Story or Just the Changes?

It's advisable to send the complete story rather than just the changes. An example of why this is important can be seen in the case of Fractured Fairy Tales, where slight changes can significantly alter the story's progression and setting. Simply sending changes could create confusion about which version of the fairytales you're referring to, for instance, whether it's Hans Christian Andersen's original, the Brothers Grimm's adaptation, or a Disney film retelling.

The Impact of Minor vs. Major Changes

Minor changes can indeed affect the storyline and how the tale unfolds. For instance, altering a character’s name or the setting can dramatically change the narrative. If you make significant changes to the setting or time period, you'll need to provide detailed references and descriptions to maintain the plausibility of your version. This means you’ll need to include background information, character development, and a cohesive narrative that fits your new settings or timelines.

Why Writing the Entire Story is Necessary

Even if you base a large portion of your story on classic sources, you must write the entire new version yourself. The story must be adapted to fit your unique changes and additions. Publishers will not be interested in just hearing about your ideas; they want to see the concrete storytelling you've created. This is because changes to the original story require adjusting the narrative flow, character arcs, and plot twists to ensure they make sense within the new framework.

The Reality of the Market

It's important to recognize that the market for retellings of classic fairytales is already oversaturated. Many writers, both professional and self-published, already have entire series or individual stories that focus on new versions of these tales. There are even series like Elemental Masters and Five Hundred Kingdoms that delve into creative retellings of familiar fairytales. This makes it even more critical to ensure your submission stands out. To do so, you might consider adding unique elements, a fresh perspective, or a distinctive style to your retellings.

Conclusion

While it might seem like a unique and exciting idea to retell classic fairytales with slight modifications, it’s crucial to follow the publishing guidelines and ensure you provide the full story. This not only helps the publisher understand your vision but also sets you apart in a crowded market. Remember, your writing is your signature, and it's through the complete and polished version of your story that publishers can truly assess its potential.