Writing Fractured Fairy Tales

Fractured fairy tales take the traditional fairy tales that you know and change them. Elements such as the characters, setting, point of view or plot might be changed.

For example, a fractured version of Three Little Pigs has a wolf who is just misunderstood. As he explains from his point of view, he wasn’t actually trying to blow their houses down. The truth was he just had a really bad cold which was making him sneeze a lot! His nose was stuffy so the pigs must have misunderstood his words. He was only trying to knock on his neighbors’ doors to see if he could borrow some cold medicine.

At the heart of it, a fractured fairy tale is just a really cool way to learn about the importance that point of view plays in the telling of a story.  We've all heard sayings like, "History was written by the victors" or "There are two sides to every story."  Fractured fairy tales allow us to introduce this lesson, using traditional fictional tales, at a level that kids can not only understand but enjoy.

First, set the stage.  Lead a class discussion on fairy tales. (TIP: Create an anchor chart using these responses and post for easy reference.) What are some class favorites?  What are elements that we commonly find in fairy tales?
Some responses might include:

• Set a long time ago
• Usually includes magic or some type of make believe
• Clearly defined good vs evil characters
• Plot is focused on a problem that needs to be solved
• Usually has a happy ending
• Oftentimes teaches a lesson or moral

Next, if you have access to a fractured fairy tale story, read it now. Note that the elements of a traditional fairy tale that you discussed previously are still present. The author just twisted or fractured parts of the story. Discuss what exactly the author changed.  If you are looking for a book to read, Read Write Think has created a fractured fairy tale book list found here.

Finally, let the fracturing begin!  Have students select a traditional fairy tale.  They should give it a new title.  When they are ready to write their final version (after drafting and editing) let them write on this adorable FREE fairy tale stationery.  You do need to be a member of TPT to download it but no worries. If you need to sign up that is easy and free too.  After the writing is complete be sure to have students answer the reflection questions listed above.

Or, step things up a creative notch and make a cool castle shaped lapbook.

Happy Writing!