This collection investigates how contemporary writers in North America and England have subverted traditional fairy tale tropes to challenge patriarchal structures and gender norms. Jack Zipes, a prominent scholar of folklore and children's literature, compiles and analyzes a range of stories that reimagine classic narratives. He argues that these modern adaptations serve as critical tools for social change, moving away from passive heroines toward active, self-determined protagonists. The text provides a theoretical framework for understanding the evolution of the fairy tale genre within a feminist context.

Scholars and educators frequently cite this work as a foundational text for the study of modern folklore and gender representation. Readers often note the academic rigor of the analysis, which makes it a standard reference for those interested in the intersection of literature and social critique.