Looking for a new fairy tale book to read? Look no further! We are delighted to announce that Melbourne-based illustrator Kate Churchward has just written, illustrated and published an ebook.

Kate’s illustrations are truly intriguing, and so we couldn’t be more excited about this book. A Sweeping Tale is based around the renowned “Cinderella” tale and is perfect for lovers of whimsy, quirkiness and off beat. Count us in!

I was lucky enough to interview Kate on fairy tales and her latest book. Here’s what she had to say:

What it is about the fairy tale form that you love so much?

“Fairy tales and picture books have always been a love of mine, ever since I was given a beautifully illustrated copy of “Beauty and the Beast” when I was 7…which I still have and still read. 

I love that fairy tales can be read as simple entertainment or as subjects of contemplation. I also love the duality of the fairy tale – it has the capacity to allow the darkness of life and our natures, as well as the light.

Fairy tales are a place where there are no rules, where judgement and belief can be suspended long enough to explore the subject of our natures and the things that happen to us.” 

Why did you choose “Cinderella” to retell?

“I chose “Cinderella” so that I could explore ideas around grief and servitude. Part of what keeps us in servitude to grief (rather than allowing ourselves to pass through it) is feeling that life is punishing us directly in some way.

Not to mention that one of the prevailing ideas in “Cinderella” is a prince coming along to ‘save’ you…which I’ve always had a problem with. I wanted to tell a different story.”