Every book enthusiast finds pleasure in an enthralling series that completely absorbs their attention. The Twisted Tale series, penned by Liz Braswell, Elizabeth Lim, and Jen Calonita, provides exactly that. This series presents the famous Disney stories we’ve all loved but with an unexpected twist.
Each book reimagines a classic Disney tale by adding a single “what if” that changes everything. This blog post will provide you with the complete order of the Twisted Tale series, making it easier to journey through these fascinating tales seamlessly.
The Twisted Tale Series Order
- “A Whole New World” by Liz Braswell (2015) – A twist on Aladdin.
- “Once Upon a Dream” by Liz Braswell (2016) – A twist on Sleeping Beauty.
- “As Old as Time” by Liz Braswell (2016) – A twist on Beauty and the Beast.
- “Reflection” by Elizabeth Lim (2018) – A twist on Mulan.
- “Part of Your World” by Liz Braswell (2018) – A twist on The Little Mermaid.
- “Mirror, Mirror” by Jen Calonita (2019) – A twist on Snow White.
- “Conceal, Don’t Feel” by Jen Calonita (2019) – A twist on Frozen.
- “Straight On Till Morning” by Liz Braswell (2020) – A twist on Peter Pan.
- “So This is Love” by Elizabeth Lim (2020) – A twist on Cinderella.
- “Unbirthday” by Liz Braswell (2020) – A twist on Alice in Wonderland.
- “What Once Was Mine” by Liz Braswell (2021) – A twist on Tangled.
While each book in the Twisted Tale series is an independent story, it’s always exciting to progress through them in the order they were published. This allows readers to appreciate the evolution and nuances of the author’s storytelling skills. However, if you have a particular Disney story you love, feel free to dive into that one first.
Quick Fact: Each twisted tale stands on its own, providing a unique and captivating spin on the Disney stories we all know and love. Enjoy the journey through these familiar, yet brilliantly altered, landscapes.
What are the Disney’s Twisted Tales?
Disney Twisted Tales is a series of young adult novels that re-imagine classic Disney stories. Each book poses a “what if” scenario, giving a unique twist to the original story. For example, what if Aladdin never found the lamp? What if Belle’s mother cursed the Beast? What if Ariel never defeated Ursula?
These hypothetical situations allow for a fresh exploration of well-known narratives, giving readers a chance to see their favorite characters face new, often more challenging circumstances. This series provides a much darker and more complex perspective on the stories, but it still keeps the essential theme of triumph over adversity.
The narratives are thought-provoking, adding depth to the characters while staying true to the spirit of the original stories.
Who Wrote the Twisted Tales?
The Twisted Tales series is penned by three different authors: Liz Braswell, Elizabeth Lim, and Jen Calonita. Liz Braswell is a prolific author known for her young adult fantasy books. She started the series with “A Whole New World”, the first book in the Twisted Tale series, and has written the majority of the novels.
Elizabeth Lim, another accomplished author, well-known for her unique spin on fairy tales, has contributed with the books “Reflection” and “So This is Love”. Jen Calonita, who has a rich background in young adult fiction, has written “Mirror, Mirror” and “Conceal, Don’t Feel”.
These authors have brought their individual styles to the series, making each book a distinct yet connected piece of the whole collection.
Do I Need to Read the Twisted Tales in Order?
The Disney Twisted Tales series is made up of standalone novels. Each book presents a different Disney story with its unique “what if” twist, so they don’t follow a sequential storyline. This means you can read the books in any order you prefer. If you have a favorite Disney film, you can start with the corresponding Twisted Tale.
However, there’s a certain charm in reading the books in the order of their release, as this gives you a sense of the authors’ evolution and the creative direction of the series over time. Additionally, if you’re a fan of Disney in general and enjoy all the stories, reading the books in order might offer the most comprehensive experience. It’s entirely up to the reader’s preference!
1. A Whole New World by Liz Braswell (2015)
In this twisted version of Disney’s Aladdin, the story asks: what if Aladdin had never found the lamp? It starts as per the original tale, with Aladdin and Jasmine meeting in the marketplace. However, things take a sharp turn when Aladdin doesn’t get hold of the magical lamp—instead, it falls into the clutches of a power-hungry Jafar.
The sultan’s advisor uses his newfound power to make himself the ruler of Agrabah, turning it into a place of darkness and despair. Aladdin and Jasmine then have to join a group of rebels to overthrow Jafar and restore Agrabah to its former glory.
2. Once Upon a Dream by Liz Braswell (2016)
This Twisted Tale takes on Sleeping Beauty with the question: what if sleeping beauty never woke up? In this rendition, Aurora doesn’t wake up when Prince Phillip kisses her. Instead, she finds herself in a dream world controlled by Maleficent, where all her loved ones are villains and Maleficent is a benevolent queen.
Aurora must navigate through this dangerous dreamscape, confront her own fears, and find a way to break the spell and wake up from this never-ending nightmare.
3. As Old as Time by Liz Braswell (2016)
As Old as Time poses a crucial question: what if Belle’s mother cursed the Beast? Unlike the original tale where Belle’s mother is hardly mentioned, this story delves into her past. Belle’s mother turns out to be the enchantress who cursed the Beast and his castle.
With her newfound knowledge, Belle must confront her mother’s past while navigating life in the enchanted castle. This revelation brings a whole new light to Belle’s relationship with the Beast, making it a captivating tale about love, forgiveness, and consequences.
4. Reflection by Elizabeth Lim (2018)
Reflection asks: what if Mulan had traveled to the Underworld? When Li Shang is mortally wounded during a battle, instead of Mulan taking his place in the army as in the original tale, Mulan travels to the Diyu the Chinese Underworld to save him. Mulan has to make her way through the various levels of the Underworld, each one a different punishment for a different crime, to rescue Shang and bring him back to the world of the living.
5. Part of Your World by Liz Braswell (2018)
In this twist on The Little Mermaid, the question is: what if Ariel had never defeated Ursula? Five years after the sea witch Ursula took control of the kingdom, Ariel is the leader of a small group of misfit merfolk who are the kingdom’s last hope.
Ariel must decide whether to risk all she has left to save her people, potentially uniting the sea and the land once again, or lose everything and everyone she loves.
6. Mirror, Mirror by Jen Calonita (2019)
“Mirror, Mirror” puts a twist on Snow White by posing the question: what if the Evil Queen poisoned the prince? Following this premise, Snow White’s story is reimagined. The Evil Queen manages to manipulate and poison the prince, leaving Snow White and the seven dwarfs to save him.
The narrative presents an alternate perspective where we see the Evil Queen, Ingrid, not as a pure villain, but as someone influenced by a dark magic mirror.
7. Conceal, Don’t Feel by Jen Calonita (2019)
This twist on Frozen asks: what if Anna and Elsa never knew each other? Here, an enchantment erases everyone’s memories of Elsa, including Anna’s. Elsa grows up alone in a castle in the mountains, unknowingly causing an eternal winter in Arendelle.
As the calamity unfolds, Anna sets off on a journey to find the source of the winter, leading to a heartfelt reunion that has the potential to save their kingdom.
8. Straight On Till Morning by Liz Braswell (2020)
“Straight On Till Morning” reimagines Peter Pan with the question: what if Wendy first traveled to Neverland with Captain Hook? In this version, Wendy Darling offers to tell Captain Hook stories in exchange for a passage to Neverland. However, things don’t go as planned.
Wendy’s tales give Captain Hook the power to harness the magic of Neverland, threatening its very existence. Wendy has to make some tough choices to save the magical land.
9. So This is Love by Elizabeth Lim (2020)
“So This is Love” presents an alternate Cinderella story by asking: what if Cinderella never tried on the glass slipper? After being turned away from the ball, Cinderella takes up a job as the royal seamstress. But as she observes life within the castle walls, she uncovers a conspiracy against the prince.
Cinderella must uncover the plot and decide whether she truly wants to become a princess.
10. Unbirthday by Liz Braswell (2020)
“Unbirthday” features an alternate story of Alice in Wonderland: what if Wonderland was in peril and Alice was very, very late? Now a young woman, Alice is living in London and working for a newspaper.
When the White Rabbit shows up and asks for her help saving Wonderland from an unknown terror, Alice has to return to the mad, whimsical world and figure out how to set things right.
11. What Once Was Mine by Liz Braswell (2021)
“What Once Was Mine” poses the question: what if Rapunzel’s mother drank a potion from the wrong flower? This leads to a different take on Tangled. Instead of the healing powers we know from the original story, Rapunzel’s hair now brings the dead back to life.
But when the dead brought back have their own agendas and begin to threaten the kingdom, Rapunzel and her mother have to confront the consequences of the magical power they wield.
What makes the Twisted Tale series unique compared to the original Disney stories?
The Twisted Tale series offers a fresh perspective on the classic Disney tales that we all grew up loving. Each book in the series introduces a ‘what if’ scenario that diverges from the original plot, providing a unique twist. These alterations often introduce darker, more complex elements into the narratives, bringing more depth to the characters and the storyline.
This gives the readers an opportunity to see their favorite Disney characters in new and challenging situations, testing their strengths and beliefs in a way that is not present in the original tales. The series keeps the spirit of the original Disney stories intact while adding layers of complexity and maturity, making it a captivating read for both young adults and adults.
Each author of the Twisted Tale series brings their unique flair to the books. Liz Braswell, who penned the majority of the series, has a knack for adding depth and complexity to the characters while maintaining the charm and magic of the original Disney tales. Her books often present strong female protagonists who face their fears and overcome obstacles.
Elizabeth Lim’s writing is filled with beautiful and evocative imagery. Her focus is often on character growth and emotional journeys. In her Twisted Tales, “Reflection” and “So This is Love”, she weaves rich narratives that delve into the characters’ struggles, emotions, and triumphs.
Jen Calonita’s style is filled with engaging dialogue and fast-paced action. Her books “Mirror, Mirror” and “Conceal, Don’t Feel” feature intricate plots with unexpected twists, keeping the readers hooked from start to finish. All three authors, while having their distinctive styles, have successfully created books that are cohesive to the Twisted Tale series.
What kind of audience is the Twisted Tale series aimed at?
The Twisted Tale series is classified as young adult fiction, targeting readers in their teens. However, the series has a broad appeal because of its basis in classic Disney tales. Anyone who has grown up watching Disney movies, which is a vast majority of people, would find these stories engaging and interesting.
This means the series appeals to both young readers and adults alike. For young readers, the series offers a new, exciting spin on familiar tales. For adults, it’s a nostalgic trip back to childhood but with an added layer of complexity and depth that makes the reading experience more engaging.
Can the Twisted Tale series be considered feminist literature?
The Twisted Tale series can indeed be seen as a form of feminist literature. Each book in the series features a strong female protagonist, often giving them more agency and depth than their original Disney counterparts. The series explores themes like self-empowerment, independence, courage, and resilience through the journeys of these characters.
The female characters are not just waiting to be rescued but are active participants in their destiny, often driving the action and being instrumental in resolving the conflict. This emphasis on strong, complex female characters who stand up for themselves and others aligns with the principles of feminism.
How does the Twisted Tale series use the fantasy genre to convey deeper meanings?
The Twisted Tale series uses the fantasy genre as a vehicle to explore complex themes and convey deeper meanings. The fantastical elements in the stories often serve as metaphors for real-life issues. For example, a character’s struggle against a villain could symbolize the struggle against societal norms or personal fears.
This allows the authors to discuss intricate and sometimes sensitive topics in a way that is accessible and engaging for young readers. It also enables the reader to engage with the story on multiple levels, appreciating not only the thrilling plot and magical elements but also the deeper messages that resonate with their real-life experiences.
Why are the villains’ roles important in the Twisted Tale series?
In the Twisted Tale series, the villains play crucial roles. Not only do they drive the plot by introducing the conflict, but they also contribute significantly to the development of the main characters. Facing and overcoming the villains’ challenges, the protagonists grow stronger, learn important lessons, and often discover their true selves.
Quick Fact: Furthermore, some books in the series delve into the backgrounds of the villains, humanizing them and providing an understanding of their motives. This adds depth to the story and allows the readers to explore themes of forgiveness, empathy, and the complexity of good and evil.
Can reading the Twisted Tale series change the way we perceive the original Disney stories?
Reading the Twisted Tale series can indeed change our perceptions of the original Disney stories. By introducing ‘what if’ scenarios and adding layers of complexity to the characters and plots, the series encourages us to look beyond the surface of the original tales.
It pushes us to question and rethink the characters’ motivations, actions, and the consequences of their decisions. The series also often emphasizes the power of choice, the value of resilience, and the importance of understanding others, all of which may prompt readers to reflect on these aspects in the original stories.
Therefore, reading the Twisted Tale series offers a new lens through which to view and appreciate classic Disney tales.
How do the Twisted Tales manage to maintain the charm of the original Disney stories while providing a darker perspective?
The Twisted Tales series successfully walks a fine line between maintaining the charm and magic of the original Disney stories while introducing darker and more complex elements. This is achieved by retaining the core of the original tales – the beloved characters, the enchanting settings, and the central themes of love, bravery, and resilience.
These elements provide a sense of familiarity and comfort. Meanwhile, the ‘what if’ scenarios introduce new challenges and complexities that take the stories in unexpected directions. These alterations add depth to the characters and make the plots more intricate, providing a more mature perspective.
However, even when exploring darker themes, the stories never lose sight of the inherent optimism and enchantment of the Disney universe, which is part of their enduring appeal.
How does the ‘what if’ concept affect the narrative of each Twisted Tale?
The ‘what if’ concept is a driving force in the narrative of each Twisted Tale. By changing a key event or assumption in the original stories, the authors create entirely new storylines that lead to unexpected character developments and plot twists.
This allows for a fresh exploration of familiar narratives and lets readers see their favorite characters in new and often challenging situations. The ‘what if’ concept brings a sense of unpredictability and suspense to the stories, keeping readers engaged and curious about how the tale will unfold.
What kind of lessons can readers learn from the Twisted Tale series?
The Twisted Tale series, like the original Disney tales, is rich with life lessons. However, these lessons are often conveyed in a more complex and nuanced manner in the Twisted Tales. Themes of courage, self-discovery, resilience, and compassion are prevalent throughout the series. Characters learn to face their fears, challenge their beliefs, and embrace their identities.
They learn the value of friendship, empathy, and love, and the importance of making choices and taking responsibility for their actions. The stories thus provide important moral and ethical lessons, while also encouraging readers to think critically and question the world around them.
How does the Twisted Tale series cater to adult readers?
While the Twisted Tale series is primarily targeted at young adults, it holds considerable appeal for adult readers as well. The series takes stories that many adults would have grown up with and presents them in a fresh and mature light.
The darker and more complex themes, the intricate plots, and the nuanced character developments cater to a more sophisticated reading palate. Furthermore, the series often delves into philosophical and moral dilemmas that would resonate with adult readers.
Therefore, while the series provides nostalgia for beloved childhood tales, it also offers a more thought-provoking and in-depth reading experience.
Are the characters in the Twisted Tales series more relatable than their original Disney counterparts?
In many ways, the characters in the Twisted Tales series can be seen as more relatable than their original Disney counterparts. By placing these characters in challenging and often darker situations, the authors allow them to exhibit a range of emotions and vulnerabilities that are reflective of real-life experiences.
The characters make mistakes, face failures, grapple with their identities, and learn to overcome obstacles. This complexity and realism make the characters more three-dimensional and relatable. While they may exist in a fantastical world, their struggles and growth mirror those experienced by many readers.
Does the Twisted Tale series subvert the traditional Disney narrative of “happily ever after”?
While the Twisted Tale series does play with the traditional Disney narrative, it does not entirely subvert the concept of ‘happily ever after’. Rather, it provides a more realistic and nuanced understanding of what ‘happily ever after’ can mean. Happiness is not presented as a final destination or a static state achieved without trials and tribulations.
Instead, it is often portrayed as a journey involving resilience, personal growth, and the courage to face one’s fears. The series emphasizes that happiness can coexist with challenges and difficulties, thus providing a more relatable and grounded depiction of ‘happily ever after’.
Why would a reader who loves the original Disney stories enjoy the Twisted Tale series?
A reader who loves the original Disney stories would enjoy the Twisted Tale series for several reasons. Firstly, the series offers a fresh perspective on beloved tales, providing an element of novelty and unpredictability. Secondly, it delves deeper into the characters and their motivations, adding depth and complexity to the narratives.
Thirdly, while the series introduces new challenges and often darker elements, it retains the charm, magic, and optimism of the original Disney universe. Therefore, the Twisted Tale series provides a unique blend of familiarity and novelty that is likely to captivate fans of the original Disney stories.
conclusion
The Disney Twisted Tale series offers a fresh, intriguing spin on the classic Disney tales. It reimagines familiar narratives through unique ‘what if’ scenarios, bringing new depth and complexity to the beloved characters and plots.
The series provides a unique blend of familiarity and novelty, presenting a darker, yet enchanting version of the magical Disney universe. By exploring themes of courage, self-discovery, and resilience, the series presents important life lessons in a nuanced and engaging manner.
For readers who have grown up loving Disney stories, the Twisted Tale series is a captivating journey that allows them to see their favorite characters and stories in a fresh light. Whether you’re a young reader or an adult, these twisted tales are sure to provide a fascinating and thought-provoking reading experience.