Diamonds and Toads: Classic Fairy Tales for a New Generation of Girls & Boys

Author(s): Collated by Jo Paterson

NZ Picture Books | Fairytales, Myths and Legends | Treasury Collections & Special Editions | LGBTQI+

From the original writings of The Grimm Brothers, Hans Christian Andersen, Perrault and other master storytellers, this reĀ­envisioned collection of 18 of our favourite fairy tales challenges outdated gender stereotypes and creates diverse new tales for every girl and boy - regardless of gender, skin colour or sexual orientation.


In Diamonds and Toads, a brave princess fights her way through a forest of thorns to place a kiss on the sleeping Briar Rose. The Frog Prince's curse is ultimately undone by another prince who learns not to judge by outward appearances. And a young woman proves she is more than capable of using her wits to save her betrothed as the gender roles are reversed in Jorinda and Joringel.


Richly illustrated by some of New Zealand's best loved illustrators and artists, this treasury is sure to become a favourite for a new generation of readers.

Illustrated by:


P.J. Paterson; Loryn Engelsman; Alex Cara; Giselle Clarkson; Ian Krippner; Kat Quin; Sarah Harmon; Adele Jackson; Gavin Mouldey; Ben Bertels; Nicky Cameron; Will Saunders; Scott Pearson; Sarah Lund


Isla's Review:


Diamonds and Toads is a subtle retelling of classic fairy tales for the 21st Century which reflects today's changing values. The familiar tales feature diverse characters for a new generation of kids no matter what gender, sexual orientation or skin colour. The stories retain the tone, style and language of the originals, Jo Paterson has simply put the characters into new dresses. From a mermaid who is captivated by a princess on shore to a Frog Prince whose curse is broken by another prince. With illustrations from some of Aotearoa's best-loved illustrators and artists, like Giselle Clarkson and Gavin Mouldey, this treasury has no shortage of variation.


Through the charm of classic fairy tales, Diamonds and Toads encourages kindness and acceptance. It has all of the ingredients for keeping young readers engaged and open-minded.

40.00 NZD

Stock: 0


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Product Information

General Fields

  • : 9780473480424
  • : Glenda Northey
  • : UNKNOWN
  • : October 2019
  • : books

Special Fields

  • : Collated by Jo Paterson
  • : Hardback
  • : Various
  • : 204