When I first approached this book, I was pretty reluctant to start reading it, because I am not usually a fan of fiction or fantasy. However, as I really delved into the writing, I found myself enjoying the many short stories that make up the book.

Rags & Bones is basically a collection of classic stories and fairytales, retold by award-winning and bestselling authors, including Neil Gaiman, Kami Garcia, and Garth Nix.

For example, Kami Garcia retells the story of Rumpelstiltskin, but in her version, the story is a lot more contemporary. Garcia's rendition also really emphasizes the darker side of the classic story, demonstrated by a teenage assassin, a backstory of drugs and poverty, as well as the foreboding urban crossroads demon: the Soul Collector.

All of these stories have brilliant characters and plots, and I really loved reading new adaptations of stories that I have read as a child. All of the authors in this book found some way to add a new twist to the tales that have been retold over and over.

I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good short story – each takes about half an hour to read – as a way to unwind or relax. I think that the book is more appropriate for an older range of kids, starting around eleven years old, as many of the new stories are quite dark and twisted. Anyone who likes fantasy, mystery, or mythology should definitely read this book, as it references many legendary characters, like dwarves and witches.

Also, although the stories are relatively short, they are all very suspenseful, and will you keep you on the edge of your seat throughout! The only criticism I really have with this book is more of a personal issue. I am not really a fan of fiction and fantasy books, so all the make-believe characters felt a bit ridiculous. I think that if you prefer something nonfiction, or more realistic, this book is not the best bet for you. Nevertheless, it was still an enjoyable read for me, with interesting details and beautiful language.

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