Hanzel and Pretzel

by Mike Thaler

A retelling of the classic Hansel and Gretel fairy tale, in which the children turn the tables on the witch

Genres: Childrens

32 pages, Paperback

First published March 1, 1997

About the author

Mike Thaler, born in Los Angeles, started his professional career drawing cartoons for adults. A children's book editor saw one of his cartoon stories in a national magazine and encouraged Mike to try writing for children. His first attempt met with success, and "The Magic Boy" was published in 1961.

Mike has produced over 220 published books and is known as “America’s Riddle King.” He has also been called “The Court Jester of Children’s Literature.”

Mike Thaler lives in Portland, Oregon with his wife Patty. He gladly welcomes all invitations to do church and school programs, and other book events.

Mike travels each year throughout the world helping children and teachers create their own stories, riddles, and books. He writes and teaches with creativity, inspiring his audiences with a love of language.

--from the author's website

Reviews

[Beth · Rating 3 out of 5]

Hanzel starts the troubles when he eats the doorknob. The two do best the witch and joke of eating sand-witches. She now has a healthy food store.

[Cindy C · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cute book with nice illustrations. Teaches kids to listen to their parents or if not, it's acceptable to cannibalize a witch.

[Carole · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hanzel and Pretzel is a twisted take-off on the fairy tale Hansel and Gretel. Mike Thaler is a master at this type of book.