Jennifer Allen
By Jennifer Allen
The Witch’s Apprentice and Other Stories
By Ekta R. Garg
(Atmosphere Press)
Have you ever wondered why Jack and Jill went up the hill?
Mayhap you’ve pondered the consequences of the two conmen after they’d convinced the Emperor to don his “new clothes”?
These are but a few scenarios discussed in Ekta R. Garg’s new novella, The Witch’s Apprentice and Other Stories.
Initially influenced by a writing exercise in college, this novella explores a series of five “What If” scenarios based on famous fairy tales and nursery rhymes. Each short story is recontextualized in a series of prequels and sequels to flesh out certain characters, and in some cases intertwine them with other well-known ones.
Each retelling is done in a similar fashion to Garg’s previous works… with quick wit and emotional buildup as we follow these cherished characters on journeys turned slightly eschew. Most even conclude with a delightful twist which in hindsight is both creative and plausible.
While similar retellings and twists have been presented before such as in the TV series Once Upon a Time or the Terry
Gilliam film, Brothers Grimm, it’s always a pleasure to experience new, innovative takes involving these timeless stories.
Etka in her conclusion asks readers to submit requests for future volumes similar to The Witch’s Apprentice and Other Stories. If you’d like to see another classic tale included in a future micro collection, you can contact her at sayhello@ektargarg.com or via social media on Instagram, @EktaRGarg.
Jennifer Allen works at Saathee and is also a Podcaster, Blogger, Photographer, Graphic Artist, Gamer, Martial Arts Practitioner, and an all around Pop Culture Geek. You can reach her at saathee@saathee.com.
