Adventures at the Harvard Bookstore and more in an interview with Dan Morrell

http://denisonmagazine.com/2014/features/spellbound/

And here’s what they left out:

Maria Tatar has become so familiar with fairy tale characters through her work, that it’s easy to imagine them walking among us in modern times. Here, according to Tatar, are the six fairy tale characters you’re likely to meet in everyday life.

Gretel:  Shy and introverted, but when push comes to shove, she gets the job done. Has a sweet tooth that is out of control, but she still looks like she needs a sandwich. Hates cooking. Very loyal with strong family ties. Has read The Hunger Games and The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo at least 10 times and is a big fan of Jennifer Lawrence and Rooney Mara.

Frog Prince: Sweet guy who is always ready to lend a helping hand. Tends to overshare and can become clingy at times. Willing to change for the right woman. Big supporter of sustainability movements and eco-friendly solutions.

 Goldilocks:  You know her. Ben Bernanke has a big crush on her, as does almost every economist. She may be high-maintenance, but she’s the chick who knows exactly what she wants and, for her, size does matter. Runs several marathons a year and is training for a triathlon.

Anansi: Prankster who is full of himself. Close to setting Guinness world records on pizza consumption, burgers, and shakes. Hard to tell when he is serious, when he is joking—has a poker face. Chick-magnet of sorts but toxic dating material.

Rumpelstiltskin: Never gives out his real name on a first date. Very secretive, especially about why he always looks exhausted—claims to be working nights at some kind of dull job. Don’t make any bets with this guy—he always has an angle.

Jack: Still living in his mother’s basement, even though he’s loaded. Distinctly metrosexual but talks constantly about returning to the land—growing things, raising chickens, milking cows. Hobbies include rock climbing and selling stuff on eBay.