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TaleSpins #1
8: The Previously Untold Story of the Previously Unknown 8th Dwarf
**Now only available as part of the 3-story print & eBook collection titled TALESPINS!**
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1... --- Written in verse, this is the previously untold story of the previously unknown 8th dwarf, named Creepy. He is banished to the basement for being different and, well, weird. Yet he plays a vital - and of course previously unknown - role in the popular tale of Snow White – whose title character is an intruder Creepy refers to as "the Maid". (Intended for readers aged 10 and up)
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1... --- Written in verse, this is the previously untold story of the previously unknown 8th dwarf, named Creepy. He is banished to the basement for being different and, well, weird. Yet he plays a vital - and of course previously unknown - role in the popular tale of Snow White – whose title character is an intruder Creepy refers to as "the Maid". (Intended for readers aged 10 and up)
17 pages, Nook
First published November 9, 2010
1 person is currently reading
618 people want to read
About the author
Michael Mullin
39 books132 followersFictional worlds can teach us so much about the one we live in. The experiences you bring back from the escape are what give stories their value. That's why you read, and that's why I read – and write.
My author career began with a twisted fairytale retelling about the unknown 8th dwarf which turned into a trilogy of such tales. Over the years I've received book awards and industry recognition for which I'm very grateful. I'm currently working on a business plan for an educational company that uses the fairytale trilogy, TaleSpins, as curriculum to teach things like empathy and anti-bullying.
I've written marketing materials for the merch divisions of Disney, DreamWorks, 20th Century Fox, and Universal, but I gave all that up because I was tired of selling people junk that was just going to end up in a landfill. Before I was a writer, I was a preschool teacher and college professor, two positions I found disconcertingly similar.
I live in Pasadena, CA with my wonderful wife Dani and our ridiculously cool dog Finn. Our twins, Sophie and Max are finishing up their college careers. I couldn’t be more proud and amazed. Even though I've been in California since 1996, all my sports allegiances remain in my native New England.
My author career began with a twisted fairytale retelling about the unknown 8th dwarf which turned into a trilogy of such tales. Over the years I've received book awards and industry recognition for which I'm very grateful. I'm currently working on a business plan for an educational company that uses the fairytale trilogy, TaleSpins, as curriculum to teach things like empathy and anti-bullying.
I've written marketing materials for the merch divisions of Disney, DreamWorks, 20th Century Fox, and Universal, but I gave all that up because I was tired of selling people junk that was just going to end up in a landfill. Before I was a writer, I was a preschool teacher and college professor, two positions I found disconcertingly similar.
I live in Pasadena, CA with my wonderful wife Dani and our ridiculously cool dog Finn. Our twins, Sophie and Max are finishing up their college careers. I couldn’t be more proud and amazed. Even though I've been in California since 1996, all my sports allegiances remain in my native New England.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
June 9, 2021
i get a lot of review requests. a lot. and i have to turn most of them down because i am someone with very little in the way of free time and too many books to read already. and i wish these authors the best of luck, i do, but i have a pretty good sense of what kind of books i will respond to, and i hate saying negative things about authors who are on small presses or self-published, because i appreciate spirit and spunk and all that, but every once in a while, i let one in (LGM) ESPECIALLY if i am told it is a 24-page poem and should take me nine minutes to read, when i am already planning on borrowing a nook from work.
well - all of you people concerned you will not meet your self-imposed 2012 book challenges (and you do realize that you gotta get those books read before the mayans blow out all the candles on our cake)- this is a "book" for you.
i know. it is a poem. ugh. and a rhyming poem at that. and it looks like it could be a little cheesy. and that is why i almost gave it a pass. but i had this free nook, see, and lo! i enjoyed it despite my misgivings. it is singsong-y, but it is not childish. it's cute but not cutesy. and i personally like retellings of fairy tales and such, and this one serves that purpose. it tells the story of the 8th dwarf in the snow white tale, who is locked in the basement for antisocial tendencies. and yet, he plays a huge role in the fate of snow white, one which lifts the curtain on the fairy tale, and shows you what was going on behind the familiar scenes. i liked it, and it really highlights the creepy date-rape elements of snow white that the disney franchise would call "romance."
and i managed to read it on the nook-thing walking from my house to the subway. can't beat that.
however - know that this is not mike mullin, YA survival king of my heart. this is another guy, with a similar name. in case you read this looking for horrible things to happen to teenagers. wrong guy.
give the man nine minutes of your time. (LGM.)
come to my blog!
well - all of you people concerned you will not meet your self-imposed 2012 book challenges (and you do realize that you gotta get those books read before the mayans blow out all the candles on our cake)- this is a "book" for you.
i know. it is a poem. ugh. and a rhyming poem at that. and it looks like it could be a little cheesy. and that is why i almost gave it a pass. but i had this free nook, see, and lo! i enjoyed it despite my misgivings. it is singsong-y, but it is not childish. it's cute but not cutesy. and i personally like retellings of fairy tales and such, and this one serves that purpose. it tells the story of the 8th dwarf in the snow white tale, who is locked in the basement for antisocial tendencies. and yet, he plays a huge role in the fate of snow white, one which lifts the curtain on the fairy tale, and shows you what was going on behind the familiar scenes. i liked it, and it really highlights the creepy date-rape elements of snow white that the disney franchise would call "romance."
and i managed to read it on the nook-thing walking from my house to the subway. can't beat that.
however - know that this is not mike mullin, YA survival king of my heart. this is another guy, with a similar name. in case you read this looking for horrible things to happen to teenagers. wrong guy.
give the man nine minutes of your time. (LGM.)
come to my blog! 
October 17, 2011
Book Giveaway & Author Interview ends 11/9/11: http://iamareadernotawriter.blogspot....
The stories we pass down from parent to child
Were once filled with darkness, but somehow turned mild.
We tweak and revise, and when all else fails
We choose to omit certain crucial details.
Until they're forgotten, and nobody knows
How a story originally, truthfully goes.
So begins 8: The Previously Untold Story of the Previously Unknown 8th Dwarf, a short 22 page story told in verse. I'm a lover of fractured fairy tales so I got quite a few laughs out of reading this clever tale of "Creepy" the 8th banished dwarf who lives below the floorboard in the 7 dwarf's cottage.
The rhyming text is perfectly done but this is not a fairy tale for children but rather aimed at adults or older teens.
Content: a line of sexual innuendo
Rating: 4.5 Stars - Highly Recommend
Source: From author for review
The stories we pass down from parent to child
Were once filled with darkness, but somehow turned mild.
We tweak and revise, and when all else fails
We choose to omit certain crucial details.
Until they're forgotten, and nobody knows
How a story originally, truthfully goes.
So begins 8: The Previously Untold Story of the Previously Unknown 8th Dwarf, a short 22 page story told in verse. I'm a lover of fractured fairy tales so I got quite a few laughs out of reading this clever tale of "Creepy" the 8th banished dwarf who lives below the floorboard in the 7 dwarf's cottage.
The rhyming text is perfectly done but this is not a fairy tale for children but rather aimed at adults or older teens.
Content: a line of sexual innuendo
Rating: 4.5 Stars - Highly Recommend
Source: From author for review
December 26, 2011
Fairy tales lost something when all the dreadful parts were removed to make them more appropriate for children. We now have children that think everything is going to be great and nothing bad ever happens in the world. We all know that isn’t true and I have to say that I enjoyed this rendition of Snow White. The idea that everything was not perfect, besides the messy cottage, in the lives of the Dwarfs was refreshing.
This short story is written in verse and includes drawings along the way. I read this on a bus full of 7th graders and some stopped talking to looked at me as I laughed and smiled while following the story. This is a short and sweet story that I think kids and adults will enjoy. What if this is really the story after all? What a great take on Snow White. Give it a try I think you will be pleasantly surprised.
This short story is written in verse and includes drawings along the way. I read this on a bus full of 7th graders and some stopped talking to looked at me as I laughed and smiled while following the story. This is a short and sweet story that I think kids and adults will enjoy. What if this is really the story after all? What a great take on Snow White. Give it a try I think you will be pleasantly surprised.
November 19, 2011
DO NOT judge a book by its cover. Seriously, this book may seem middle-gradey and younger, but there are sexual innuendoes in here. I know I've got you at the sexual part, so read on, folks!
Originally posted at A Bookalicious Story.
Ingenious! At first when I received the ebook from the author, well, being the Paranormal Geekfan that I am, I was thinking I wouldn't like the book, but was in a very What-the-Heck mood so I accepted it. I would never have expected myself capable of ever reading a book written in verse form (I would just faint from boredom), and then enjoy it as much as I had. It was way cool; A really modern and humorous way of retelling one of the world's most famous fairytales.
You see, there once lived 8 dwarfs in the little cottage, but the 8th one was a little different, and a little weird, so the others termed him "Creepy", and the name has stuck ever since. Creepy lived up to his name, eating insects and shaving his hair, till one day the others could stand him no more, and threw him into the cellar. Poor Creepy had a kind heart, just a little dirty, if you get what I mean. And in came Snow White one day, when his brother dwarfs were out at work, and when the old lady at the door starts coming everyday to do her wicked deeds, it's up to Creepy to save the day. But will he get accepted by the others in the end?
There really isn't a main point to the story, so my summary's a little all over the place, plus the book's only 7 pages on the Adobe Digital Edition, so I couldn't divulge all the juicy contents now, could I?
Imagine creating a poem that has 2,200 words give or take... Yeah, daunting task, doesn't it seem so? But Mullin did it. Wow, I can't even conjure a 5 paragragh worth of a half-assed poem in my Literature class, and he wrote this... Lol, that is some talent there. Not only that, he incorporated wit, humor, and he even managed to address a very controversial societal subject - the message to "not judge a book by its cover" and to not ostracize anyone just because they're different or ugly came across quite clearly in a fun and engaging way.
There was humor and a subtle sexual innuendo in the book, and a child-like quality that kept it true to its origins. There was this particular part that I really, really liked:
[This is where Snow White enters the cottage of the supposedly seven dwarfs'.]
"While he sat there in silence beneath the wood floor, An unwelcome creature came in the front door.
“Hello?” it called out in a voice scared and thin.
A reply was not needed. She just let herself in.
“How rude!” thought Creepy in sheer disbelief,
“Unless she’s a criminal. Some kind of thief.
If that is the case then it serves those dopes right, The front door unlatched, yet mine is locked tight!”
He quietly moved to the place in his tomb
Where he got the best view of the ground-level room.
She walked overhead, and he opened his jaw,
Surprised and transfixed by the sight that he saw.
Her bare feet were covered with cuts and scrapes,
But beyond that were far more intriguing shapes.
A layer of wrinkled-up cotton and lace
Covered gentle curves in the negative space.
His mind raced with thoughts not entirely clean
Seeing that which was clearly not meant to be seen.
He thought that perhaps he should look well away
..."
Uh huh, y'think? Lol, that's about 1 and a half pages out of the 7 that I mentioned. I'm telling you, it was 7 pages worth of smiles and surprises. Little Creepy even knew sarcasm! I got a kick reading that part of the prose, it was absolutely hilarious. And unexpected.
8 was a really "hip" way of retelling the alternate history (or in this case, alternate fairytale) of Snow White, where one neglected dwarf tells his neglected story, and it also serves as a reminder to society to stop looking at what's on the outside and start looking on the inside. Oh, and to stop being biased to the good-looking, and harbouring prejudices against the uglies.
You see, there's just too much moral values that Mullin teaches inside this little book of 7 pages. So, what's stopping you from picking this book up?
Originally posted at A Bookalicious Story.
Ingenious! At first when I received the ebook from the author, well, being the Paranormal Geekfan that I am, I was thinking I wouldn't like the book, but was in a very What-the-Heck mood so I accepted it. I would never have expected myself capable of ever reading a book written in verse form (I would just faint from boredom), and then enjoy it as much as I had. It was way cool; A really modern and humorous way of retelling one of the world's most famous fairytales.
You see, there once lived 8 dwarfs in the little cottage, but the 8th one was a little different, and a little weird, so the others termed him "Creepy", and the name has stuck ever since. Creepy lived up to his name, eating insects and shaving his hair, till one day the others could stand him no more, and threw him into the cellar. Poor Creepy had a kind heart, just a little dirty, if you get what I mean. And in came Snow White one day, when his brother dwarfs were out at work, and when the old lady at the door starts coming everyday to do her wicked deeds, it's up to Creepy to save the day. But will he get accepted by the others in the end?
There really isn't a main point to the story, so my summary's a little all over the place, plus the book's only 7 pages on the Adobe Digital Edition, so I couldn't divulge all the juicy contents now, could I?
Imagine creating a poem that has 2,200 words give or take... Yeah, daunting task, doesn't it seem so? But Mullin did it. Wow, I can't even conjure a 5 paragragh worth of a half-assed poem in my Literature class, and he wrote this... Lol, that is some talent there. Not only that, he incorporated wit, humor, and he even managed to address a very controversial societal subject - the message to "not judge a book by its cover" and to not ostracize anyone just because they're different or ugly came across quite clearly in a fun and engaging way.
There was humor and a subtle sexual innuendo in the book, and a child-like quality that kept it true to its origins. There was this particular part that I really, really liked:
[This is where Snow White enters the cottage of the supposedly seven dwarfs'.]
"While he sat there in silence beneath the wood floor, An unwelcome creature came in the front door.
“Hello?” it called out in a voice scared and thin.
A reply was not needed. She just let herself in.
“How rude!” thought Creepy in sheer disbelief,
“Unless she’s a criminal. Some kind of thief.
If that is the case then it serves those dopes right, The front door unlatched, yet mine is locked tight!”
He quietly moved to the place in his tomb
Where he got the best view of the ground-level room.
She walked overhead, and he opened his jaw,
Surprised and transfixed by the sight that he saw.
Her bare feet were covered with cuts and scrapes,
But beyond that were far more intriguing shapes.
A layer of wrinkled-up cotton and lace
Covered gentle curves in the negative space.
His mind raced with thoughts not entirely clean
Seeing that which was clearly not meant to be seen.
He thought that perhaps he should look well away
..."
Uh huh, y'think? Lol, that's about 1 and a half pages out of the 7 that I mentioned. I'm telling you, it was 7 pages worth of smiles and surprises. Little Creepy even knew sarcasm! I got a kick reading that part of the prose, it was absolutely hilarious. And unexpected.
8 was a really "hip" way of retelling the alternate history (or in this case, alternate fairytale) of Snow White, where one neglected dwarf tells his neglected story, and it also serves as a reminder to society to stop looking at what's on the outside and start looking on the inside. Oh, and to stop being biased to the good-looking, and harbouring prejudices against the uglies.
You see, there's just too much moral values that Mullin teaches inside this little book of 7 pages. So, what's stopping you from picking this book up?
May 23, 2012
Oh Creepy. I did not know you existed but you may now be my favourite Dwarf.
I love fairy tales. I love Grimm's fairy tales. I love the dark, more adult side to fairy tales. This met those requirements and was also witty and funny. I felt a lot of empathy for Creepy! He was so misunderstood. Why were the other Dwarfs so unaccepting of his unique personality?! He was probably more pleasant to be around than Grumpy!
Anyway, I loved how the author created this poem/tale about the "Unknown 8th Dwarf". I loved how Creepy was interwoven into the original Snow White so perfectly. It's clever and sweet, with a unique humour.
There's not much I can say about it without spoiling it. It's only 22 pages long, written in verse. It's about Creepy, the "8th Dwarf" and his 7 roommates who don't approve of his behaviour, so they lock him in the cellar. :( Poor Creepy. Then Creepy witnesses Snow White's arrival through the floorboards.
It's probably not something children should read but Grimms fairy tales were not really great for children, either. It's not as dark as Grimms fairy tales but it's not a cutesy children's story. However, I do think that most children would find the humour in it and enjoy it.
I think deep down, Creepy is a bit of a gentleman. I enjoyed the story.
I love fairy tales. I love Grimm's fairy tales. I love the dark, more adult side to fairy tales. This met those requirements and was also witty and funny. I felt a lot of empathy for Creepy! He was so misunderstood. Why were the other Dwarfs so unaccepting of his unique personality?! He was probably more pleasant to be around than Grumpy!
Anyway, I loved how the author created this poem/tale about the "Unknown 8th Dwarf". I loved how Creepy was interwoven into the original Snow White so perfectly. It's clever and sweet, with a unique humour.
There's not much I can say about it without spoiling it. It's only 22 pages long, written in verse. It's about Creepy, the "8th Dwarf" and his 7 roommates who don't approve of his behaviour, so they lock him in the cellar. :( Poor Creepy. Then Creepy witnesses Snow White's arrival through the floorboards.
It's probably not something children should read but Grimms fairy tales were not really great for children, either. It's not as dark as Grimms fairy tales but it's not a cutesy children's story. However, I do think that most children would find the humour in it and enjoy it.
I think deep down, Creepy is a bit of a gentleman. I enjoyed the story.
October 27, 2011
Great book!
November 5, 2011
This book is awesome!
I loved it!
I loved it!
January 20, 2012
Note: I received a copy of this book from the author.
Mullin begins this original retold fairy tale by reminding readers of its roots: oral tradition passed down through the generations. He simultaneously connects his audience with the rich history of retellings throughout the years and introduces a new chapter in that history. He invites the audience to become a part of that history with him by reading his story and reflecting upon what a “true” tale is—is it, as the narrator suggests, what really happened, or is it something else entirely? Readers will probably detect truth in this tale not because they believe an eighth dwarf really belongs in the story, but because his presence adds a dimension to the story often forgotten in whitewashed versions: darkness exists and can be beaten, but it seldom allows a complete victory.
Even as Mullin proposes to restore to the story of Snow White some of the original darkness, however, he calls to mind childhood versions of fairy tales by writing his in verse. The rhyming format mirrors nursery songs, giving to the story an air of familiarity even as the author introduces new elements. Darker themes such as lust and loss intertwine with the innocent recollections of childhood, giving readers the sense that the story has grown with them; once they knew only the whitewashed versions, but now they know the full account. This feels fitting and true since most know from experience that good and bad often mingle.
The snarky observations made by Creepy from his vantage point in the basement add to the readers’ sense of participation in the tale. They work almost as asides from the author, saying “You knew all along, or would have if you’d thought about it, that this part of the story lacks some logic. But we’ll go along with it.” Such observations lend an air of levity to the retelling, reminding readers that, even with the darkness, this story is meant to be fun.
An amusing retelling of “Snow White,” 8 stands apart from other such attempts with its wit and imagination. Though a quick read, it achieves surprising depth with its look at the role of fairy tales and the roles of the elements contained. Mullin paints the character of Creepy with sympathy despite his name, illustrating that good, as well as bad, can be found in unexpected places. This story will surely appeal to all those who love retold fairy tales.
Mullin begins this original retold fairy tale by reminding readers of its roots: oral tradition passed down through the generations. He simultaneously connects his audience with the rich history of retellings throughout the years and introduces a new chapter in that history. He invites the audience to become a part of that history with him by reading his story and reflecting upon what a “true” tale is—is it, as the narrator suggests, what really happened, or is it something else entirely? Readers will probably detect truth in this tale not because they believe an eighth dwarf really belongs in the story, but because his presence adds a dimension to the story often forgotten in whitewashed versions: darkness exists and can be beaten, but it seldom allows a complete victory.
Even as Mullin proposes to restore to the story of Snow White some of the original darkness, however, he calls to mind childhood versions of fairy tales by writing his in verse. The rhyming format mirrors nursery songs, giving to the story an air of familiarity even as the author introduces new elements. Darker themes such as lust and loss intertwine with the innocent recollections of childhood, giving readers the sense that the story has grown with them; once they knew only the whitewashed versions, but now they know the full account. This feels fitting and true since most know from experience that good and bad often mingle.
The snarky observations made by Creepy from his vantage point in the basement add to the readers’ sense of participation in the tale. They work almost as asides from the author, saying “You knew all along, or would have if you’d thought about it, that this part of the story lacks some logic. But we’ll go along with it.” Such observations lend an air of levity to the retelling, reminding readers that, even with the darkness, this story is meant to be fun.
An amusing retelling of “Snow White,” 8 stands apart from other such attempts with its wit and imagination. Though a quick read, it achieves surprising depth with its look at the role of fairy tales and the roles of the elements contained. Mullin paints the character of Creepy with sympathy despite his name, illustrating that good, as well as bad, can be found in unexpected places. This story will surely appeal to all those who love retold fairy tales.
February 5, 2012
8 by Michael Mullin is just the kind of fractured fairy tale that might have been told in an alternate universe Rocky and Bullwinkle. That's high praise, I loved those stories. The sly humor operated on multiple levels, which is why more folks than just the famous moose and squirrel attended "Wossamotta U"
But 8, and yes, the title is just the number 8, is the story of the heretofore unknown eighth dwarf, named "Creepy" by his better known brothers.
Creepy's just moody. He's kind of a night owl, and he's not into the whole "Hi ho, hi ho" business. Well, would you sing if you had to work underground in a mine every day? I ask you, would you?
Creepy also had a slight touch of Renfield. He ate spiders. At the dinner table. It kind of creeped his brothers out. A lot.
So they locked him in the basement and slipped his meals under the door. Just for a few less than cheerful comments and a bit of raw spider on the hoof. I mean really, was that so bad?
So Creepy lived under the house, and got, well, creepier. And even less cheerful, listening to his brothers continue their rather carefree life without him.
Then "the Maid" showed up. Fairy tales usually refer to her as Snow White. Creepy saw everything! Absolutely everything. And heard everything too. The floors, well, there were some holes in those floorboards.
His brothers never told the poor girl that there was dwarf literally under her feet. So she cooked and cleaned while he spied on her. What else was he supposed to do? She kept sweeping the dust from the floor into his living space!
But when the Evil Witch knocked on the door, he heard everything then too. Did you ever wonder why Snow White let the witch in? Creepy's "floor's eye view" of the classic tale, his understandably jaundiced view, is laugh-out-loud funny. And not to be missed.
Escape Rating A: This is hilariously funny. Also a little sad, because Creepy has been abandoned by his brothers for being just a bit different. But it is an absolutely perfect fractured fairy tale, and it is done completely in verse!
Creepy is an unsung hero. Without him, Snow White would have suffocated in her glass coffin before Prince Charming ever came along. If you want to find out about Creepy's heroism, spend a few moments with Creepy. He'll make you smile.
But 8, and yes, the title is just the number 8, is the story of the heretofore unknown eighth dwarf, named "Creepy" by his better known brothers.
Creepy's just moody. He's kind of a night owl, and he's not into the whole "Hi ho, hi ho" business. Well, would you sing if you had to work underground in a mine every day? I ask you, would you?
Creepy also had a slight touch of Renfield. He ate spiders. At the dinner table. It kind of creeped his brothers out. A lot.
So they locked him in the basement and slipped his meals under the door. Just for a few less than cheerful comments and a bit of raw spider on the hoof. I mean really, was that so bad?
So Creepy lived under the house, and got, well, creepier. And even less cheerful, listening to his brothers continue their rather carefree life without him.
Then "the Maid" showed up. Fairy tales usually refer to her as Snow White. Creepy saw everything! Absolutely everything. And heard everything too. The floors, well, there were some holes in those floorboards.
His brothers never told the poor girl that there was dwarf literally under her feet. So she cooked and cleaned while he spied on her. What else was he supposed to do? She kept sweeping the dust from the floor into his living space!
But when the Evil Witch knocked on the door, he heard everything then too. Did you ever wonder why Snow White let the witch in? Creepy's "floor's eye view" of the classic tale, his understandably jaundiced view, is laugh-out-loud funny. And not to be missed.
Escape Rating A: This is hilariously funny. Also a little sad, because Creepy has been abandoned by his brothers for being just a bit different. But it is an absolutely perfect fractured fairy tale, and it is done completely in verse!
Creepy is an unsung hero. Without him, Snow White would have suffocated in her glass coffin before Prince Charming ever came along. If you want to find out about Creepy's heroism, spend a few moments with Creepy. He'll make you smile.
November 2, 2011
Title: 8 by Michael Mullin
Reviewed by: Brandon Barney
Genre: Young Adult or Teen Fairytale Fiction (1,990 words)
Ebook Description
Written in verse, this is the previously untold story of the previously unknown 8th dwarf, named Creepy. He is banished to the basement for being different and, well, weird. Yet he plays a vital - and of course previously unknown - role in the popular tale of Snow White (whose title character is an intruder Creepy refers to as "The Maid".)
Review:
Upon reading the blurb for book 8 by Michael Mullin I found myself intrigued but doubtful. There are plenty of parodies out in the media books and movies alike, and to manage to take the set standard for parodies and twist it takes some time and practice. I decided to look into the story anyway and give it a chance.
I was not disappointed. The first line gave me chills straight away, and did not let up from there. The story does not lack the backstory for Creepy but instead tells us how he got there instead of jumping straight into the story of Snow White.
It takes imagination to craft a story that is based upon another and still create a good piece of work. Michael Mullin has that imagination. The story is surprisingly in its choice of fairytale and subject matter, threatening to lean into the inappropriate but staying well out of range of the offensive, throwing in the humor that lends to the story’s wittiness.
The formatting is what would be hoped for within a fairytale, using the verse and rhyme of the classic fairytales most children grow up hearing. Due to this rhyming the reader forgets how long they have been reading (though due to its short length it takes no time at all) and instead enjoys the tale from beginning to end.
With a witty plotline, a believable and sympathetic main character, and a story you will never forget, it is well worth the small cost for such a wonderful memory. For those who give this story a chance, I am sure you will not be disappointed.
Five stars to 8 by Michael Mullins.
original review posted on goodbookalert.blogspot.com
Reviewed by: Brandon Barney
Genre: Young Adult or Teen Fairytale Fiction (1,990 words)
Ebook Description
Written in verse, this is the previously untold story of the previously unknown 8th dwarf, named Creepy. He is banished to the basement for being different and, well, weird. Yet he plays a vital - and of course previously unknown - role in the popular tale of Snow White (whose title character is an intruder Creepy refers to as "The Maid".)
Review:
Upon reading the blurb for book 8 by Michael Mullin I found myself intrigued but doubtful. There are plenty of parodies out in the media books and movies alike, and to manage to take the set standard for parodies and twist it takes some time and practice. I decided to look into the story anyway and give it a chance.
I was not disappointed. The first line gave me chills straight away, and did not let up from there. The story does not lack the backstory for Creepy but instead tells us how he got there instead of jumping straight into the story of Snow White.
It takes imagination to craft a story that is based upon another and still create a good piece of work. Michael Mullin has that imagination. The story is surprisingly in its choice of fairytale and subject matter, threatening to lean into the inappropriate but staying well out of range of the offensive, throwing in the humor that lends to the story’s wittiness.
The formatting is what would be hoped for within a fairytale, using the verse and rhyme of the classic fairytales most children grow up hearing. Due to this rhyming the reader forgets how long they have been reading (though due to its short length it takes no time at all) and instead enjoys the tale from beginning to end.
With a witty plotline, a believable and sympathetic main character, and a story you will never forget, it is well worth the small cost for such a wonderful memory. For those who give this story a chance, I am sure you will not be disappointed.
Five stars to 8 by Michael Mullins.
original review posted on goodbookalert.blogspot.com
December 27, 2012
8 is an entirely new and improved version of the famous fairy-tale Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. It's the darker, twisted side of the cheerful story, and it's got a slightly more profound touch of reality to it. And by that I mean that the original implication of the story is replaced by a new moral, which is easier to understand and far more down-to-earth. Meaning that I loved it even more. Meaning that I will be rereading this over and over again until I have it memorized by heart.
Creepy is the 8th dwarf sent to live in the cellar. He's the different one. The only dwarf that doesn't fit in with the others. And for a while, he stays hidden, until a lost maiden stumbles upon the dwarf's cottage and starts cleaning. (Guess who that is? :D) Well, Creepy just stares at the lady through the thin slits in the floorboard, wondering what the heck was wrong with her. He makes a couple of sexual innuendos from that point on.
And he stays hidden, until the evil queen stops by and tries to kill Snow White.
Creepy saves her.
The evil Queen stops by again and Snow White falls to her death again.
Creepy saves her.
The evil Queen stops by again and Snow White falls to her death for the third time. (You see the pattern here? I just love how the entire story is filled with dark humor).
Creepy saves her again.
But this time Snow White sees him and screams like a banshee.
So the moral of this story is: You can't judge someone by their appearance.
All I can say is that I was blown away. Not just by the smooth flow of the verse, but by how much the writing reminded me of Dr. Seuss. Dr. Seuss's writing was incredibly fun and even more exciting to read out loud, Michael Mullin has somehow inherited that same lively style that just keeps the reader entertained no matter what. He has this amazing ability to twist old fairy tales, making them darker and more maturer, and yet making them captivating at the same time.
I'm so happy I didn't let the chance to read this fly by.
I really recommend this one to everyone. It's a short, fun read that you definitely won't regret!
Creepy is the 8th dwarf sent to live in the cellar. He's the different one. The only dwarf that doesn't fit in with the others. And for a while, he stays hidden, until a lost maiden stumbles upon the dwarf's cottage and starts cleaning. (Guess who that is? :D) Well, Creepy just stares at the lady through the thin slits in the floorboard, wondering what the heck was wrong with her. He makes a couple of sexual innuendos from that point on.
And he stays hidden, until the evil queen stops by and tries to kill Snow White.
Creepy saves her.
The evil Queen stops by again and Snow White falls to her death again.
Creepy saves her.
The evil Queen stops by again and Snow White falls to her death for the third time. (You see the pattern here? I just love how the entire story is filled with dark humor).
Creepy saves her again.
But this time Snow White sees him and screams like a banshee.
So the moral of this story is: You can't judge someone by their appearance.
All I can say is that I was blown away. Not just by the smooth flow of the verse, but by how much the writing reminded me of Dr. Seuss. Dr. Seuss's writing was incredibly fun and even more exciting to read out loud, Michael Mullin has somehow inherited that same lively style that just keeps the reader entertained no matter what. He has this amazing ability to twist old fairy tales, making them darker and more maturer, and yet making them captivating at the same time.
I'm so happy I didn't let the chance to read this fly by.
I really recommend this one to everyone. It's a short, fun read that you definitely won't regret!
May 21, 2011
In a tongue-in-cheek approach reminiscent of James Finn Garner's Politically Correct Bedtime Stories: Modern Tales for Our Life & Times, this satirical rendition of Snow White is a new kind of bedtime story—one intended for grown-ups (or young adults, as it were).
Most adults have heard of Doc, Happy, Sleepy, Sneezy, Dopey, Bashful, and Grumpy. Mullin introduces us to Creepy, a misunderstood character who was banished by his brothers to a sort of netherworld: the basement. Instead of lovable, jewel-mining, song-whistling, morally upstanding men, Snow White's famous companions are shown in a new light, one in which intolerance and conformity are the order of the day. Not quit the stuff of fairy stories.
The author delivers his story in rhythmic, rhyming verse, which initially led me to believe that this was a children's story. The sardonic tone of voice, one instance of sexual innuendo, and a vocabulary surely intended for older readers quickly had me changing my tune. The sarcasm is strangely charming, much like Creepy himself, and this slightly darker story fits in quite nicely with the original.
Having seen some of the illustrator's previous work, I was admittedly disappointed by the ones in this book, which seemed like first drafts of the kinds of pictures he's drawn for theLarry Gets Lost™ children's series. While the images show up nicely on an e-reader, I feel like they do not take full advantage of the screen's display capabilities, grayscale or otherwise.
On the whole, I found this story to be satisfying. 8 is a quick, quirky narrative poem that proves that picture books are not only for children.
Stimulated Outlet Book Reviews
(Review copy provided by the author)
Most adults have heard of Doc, Happy, Sleepy, Sneezy, Dopey, Bashful, and Grumpy. Mullin introduces us to Creepy, a misunderstood character who was banished by his brothers to a sort of netherworld: the basement. Instead of lovable, jewel-mining, song-whistling, morally upstanding men, Snow White's famous companions are shown in a new light, one in which intolerance and conformity are the order of the day. Not quit the stuff of fairy stories.
The author delivers his story in rhythmic, rhyming verse, which initially led me to believe that this was a children's story. The sardonic tone of voice, one instance of sexual innuendo, and a vocabulary surely intended for older readers quickly had me changing my tune. The sarcasm is strangely charming, much like Creepy himself, and this slightly darker story fits in quite nicely with the original.
Having seen some of the illustrator's previous work, I was admittedly disappointed by the ones in this book, which seemed like first drafts of the kinds of pictures he's drawn for theLarry Gets Lost™ children's series. While the images show up nicely on an e-reader, I feel like they do not take full advantage of the screen's display capabilities, grayscale or otherwise.
On the whole, I found this story to be satisfying. 8 is a quick, quirky narrative poem that proves that picture books are not only for children.
Stimulated Outlet Book Reviews
(Review copy provided by the author)
July 16, 2012
Following Michael Mullin’s example, I’m going to limit this review to a short blurb (probably combined with some rude remarks about a certain novel, as well). After reading Snow White and the Huntsman -–which definitely puts the filmy in based-on-the-film–- just yesterday, I wasn’t terribly excited to read yet another spin on this classic story. (I guess fairy tales are coming back into style, right?)
However, I decided to give 8 a shot. At only about 2,000 words, I figured that it wouldn’t have been that much of a waste of time if it turned out to be horrible. So I put my newly-wrought prejudices aside and dug in. And I am so glad that I did.
8 tells the story of Creepy, the emotionally abused, long-forgotten, and not-just-a-bit-nasty 8th dwarf. His bitter personality and strange eating habits eventually led his fellow dwarves to reject him and now he remains locked-up in a basement, alone with musings.
I actually really enjoyed Creepy’s afore-mentioned sarcastic musings. I appreciate boys who aren’t fooled by beauty and digs at a princess who (in this case, anyway) is shallow, rude, and stupid. (Oh, wait. I guess this works for the case of Snow White and the Huntsman, too.)
Also, do you have any conception as to how hard it is to tell a story in an AABB poetic stanza? Any conception? I don’t, but it has to pretty freakin’ hard. The fact that Michael’s protagonist was a much deeper character than Snow and her Huntsman ever were is just a bonus at this point.
I’m going to rate 8 4.5/5 stars. It’s definitely worth the 10 minutes it takes to read it—and the 2 it takes to enter to win it! You can do this here: http://www.whatyareading.com/?page_id...
More reviews at www.whatyareading.com
I'll keep you posted,
Ana
However, I decided to give 8 a shot. At only about 2,000 words, I figured that it wouldn’t have been that much of a waste of time if it turned out to be horrible. So I put my newly-wrought prejudices aside and dug in. And I am so glad that I did.
8 tells the story of Creepy, the emotionally abused, long-forgotten, and not-just-a-bit-nasty 8th dwarf. His bitter personality and strange eating habits eventually led his fellow dwarves to reject him and now he remains locked-up in a basement, alone with musings.
I actually really enjoyed Creepy’s afore-mentioned sarcastic musings. I appreciate boys who aren’t fooled by beauty and digs at a princess who (in this case, anyway) is shallow, rude, and stupid. (Oh, wait. I guess this works for the case of Snow White and the Huntsman, too.)
Also, do you have any conception as to how hard it is to tell a story in an AABB poetic stanza? Any conception? I don’t, but it has to pretty freakin’ hard. The fact that Michael’s protagonist was a much deeper character than Snow and her Huntsman ever were is just a bonus at this point.
I’m going to rate 8 4.5/5 stars. It’s definitely worth the 10 minutes it takes to read it—and the 2 it takes to enter to win it! You can do this here: http://www.whatyareading.com/?page_id...
More reviews at www.whatyareading.com
I'll keep you posted,
Ana
Read
December 21, 2015Title Thoughts: A little long, but I still like it.
Cover Thoughts: I adore this cover. I love the eyes peeking up from under the floorboards and how it seems as if he is smiling due to the lines on the floor.
I loved this little story. I was a little hesitant because I don't really care for the story of Snow White, but I had to give it a try just to see what this 8th dwarf is all about. Although I had to read it aloud in my head to really hear the rhymes, it flowed so smoothly. There were a few sexual references that I couldn't help but smile at; so if the cover makes you think it's kiddish, ignore it.
Just thinking of this story makes me smile. I will probably read it again whenever I need a pick-me-up or a break from life. I hope Mullin dives into YA and adult fiction because I would really love to see what his creative mind can do. He did a fine job bringing me into the story and easily holding my attention throughout.
Addict's Last Words: All you need to know about 8 is that you should read it. Simple as that.
To Buy or To Borrow: Go on and buy yourself a copy at either Barnes and Noble or Amazon.
Disclosure: A copy of this book was provided for me by author. No payment was received by me in exchange for this review. There was not any obligation to write a positive review. All opinions expressed here are entirely mine and may not necessarily agree with those of the author, the book's publisher and publicist, or the readers of this review. This disclosure is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255, Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
Cover Thoughts: I adore this cover. I love the eyes peeking up from under the floorboards and how it seems as if he is smiling due to the lines on the floor.
I loved this little story. I was a little hesitant because I don't really care for the story of Snow White, but I had to give it a try just to see what this 8th dwarf is all about. Although I had to read it aloud in my head to really hear the rhymes, it flowed so smoothly. There were a few sexual references that I couldn't help but smile at; so if the cover makes you think it's kiddish, ignore it.
Just thinking of this story makes me smile. I will probably read it again whenever I need a pick-me-up or a break from life. I hope Mullin dives into YA and adult fiction because I would really love to see what his creative mind can do. He did a fine job bringing me into the story and easily holding my attention throughout.
Addict's Last Words: All you need to know about 8 is that you should read it. Simple as that.
To Buy or To Borrow: Go on and buy yourself a copy at either Barnes and Noble or Amazon.
Disclosure: A copy of this book was provided for me by author. No payment was received by me in exchange for this review. There was not any obligation to write a positive review. All opinions expressed here are entirely mine and may not necessarily agree with those of the author, the book's publisher and publicist, or the readers of this review. This disclosure is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255, Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
November 4, 2011
Blurb from goodreads
Written in verse, this is the previously untold story of the previously unknown 8th dwarf, named Creepy. He is banished to the basement for being different and, well, weird. Yet he plays a vital - and of course previously unknown - role in the popular tale of Snow White (whose title character is an intruder Creepy refers to as "the Maid")
My Review
I was so intrigued by the blurb I bumped this up my review list (naughty I know!) but I couldn't help myself - everyone knows the story of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs so to get a new character sneaked in sounded too good to miss.
It is a very short story (I got through it in less than 20 minutes however I am a very quick reader) and I loved it. It has been a long time since I read anything in verse (and rhymes too!) so it was a lovely light hearted change to what I have been reading. There are also pictures throughout the story too, nothing too fancy or over the top but nice and fitting to the part your reading.
If it is so good why is it only getting a 4 star rating you ask? Well I wanted more, pure and simple which they say a good author should leave his or her audience wanting however I would have also liked a few more new additives to the story but I still really really liked it.
You can get this ebook on smashwords for $0.99 or on Amazon for £0.86 - well worth it for 4/5 stars
Thank you to the author for giving me the chance to read and review this and I will be keeping an eye out for more :D
Written in verse, this is the previously untold story of the previously unknown 8th dwarf, named Creepy. He is banished to the basement for being different and, well, weird. Yet he plays a vital - and of course previously unknown - role in the popular tale of Snow White (whose title character is an intruder Creepy refers to as "the Maid")
My Review
I was so intrigued by the blurb I bumped this up my review list (naughty I know!) but I couldn't help myself - everyone knows the story of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs so to get a new character sneaked in sounded too good to miss.
It is a very short story (I got through it in less than 20 minutes however I am a very quick reader) and I loved it. It has been a long time since I read anything in verse (and rhymes too!) so it was a lovely light hearted change to what I have been reading. There are also pictures throughout the story too, nothing too fancy or over the top but nice and fitting to the part your reading.
If it is so good why is it only getting a 4 star rating you ask? Well I wanted more, pure and simple which they say a good author should leave his or her audience wanting however I would have also liked a few more new additives to the story but I still really really liked it.
You can get this ebook on smashwords for $0.99 or on Amazon for £0.86 - well worth it for 4/5 stars
Thank you to the author for giving me the chance to read and review this and I will be keeping an eye out for more :D
November 16, 2011
I won an e-copy of this book in the Giveaway Hop Nov. 8th - 11th. I had been seeing descriptions of it around the blogosphere and I was curious about it. It is written completely in verse -- rhyming verse! The story is not really a children's story because there are parts that are "suggestive" but nothing really happens. And I guess you would expect a dwarf named Creepy to think like that. Creepy is the 8th dwarf in the Snow White story. He irritates the other 7 dwarves so badly that they send him to the cellar to live. They go on with their lives never giving him a thought. Then Snow White comes and we get to see what happens from Creepy's perspective under the floorboards. First he gets an eyeful of dirt because she is SWEEPING! Then she does dishes and cooks. The 7 dwarves come home from working the mines to find her and they say she can stay if she cooks and cleans for them. Hmmmm... Anyway, you probably remember the story -- the old witch comes to visit and tries to kill Snow White through various means. Well, Creepy saves her a couple of times when she falls over near his peephole in the floor. Then the old witch brings her a poisoned apple and Snow White bites into it and falls by the door -- away from Creepy's peephole. He is going to have to come out of the cellar to save her... I'm not going to tell you what happens because I don't want to give away the story completely. I really enjoyed reading this story. It is short and puts a different little twist on this popular fairy tale. Creepy is so midunderstood. Get a copy and see for yourself!
January 20, 2012
This is an interesting poem which introduces itself by saying that we don’t always get the full truth, the full story of what happens in stories as they are passed down, for example in Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. The poem goes on to tell us that in fact there were 8 dwarves, but the 8th was quite different and his name was Creepy. He seemed to like to live up to this name and so the other dwarves shut him down in the cellar and ignored him except to pass his food through to him.
One day, when the other dwarves are out, he hears someone and thinks that they are being robbed and is amazed that Snow White has let herself in, not to rob, but to clean the house!
Although Creepy is utterly fed up by his circumstances and mad at the other dwarves he finds himself saving Snow White’s life twice, not to be kind, but so he would have a story to tell and so that there wouldn’t be the smell of a dead body.
Once Snow White takes the apple and falls to the floor for the 3rd time, Creepy is unable to help her and is not sure whether to escape to help in case he’s accused of murder. I won’t tell you what happens next but it’s a bit sad to be honest. It’s a good portrayal of how people are judged in life for being different, or for not looking good enough. This was a short poem and certainly adds a different perspective on the story that we’ve all watched and read over the years.
Verdict: Quite an interesting poem, something a bit different to read.
Dan(14)http://bigbooklittlebook.blogspot.com
One day, when the other dwarves are out, he hears someone and thinks that they are being robbed and is amazed that Snow White has let herself in, not to rob, but to clean the house!
Although Creepy is utterly fed up by his circumstances and mad at the other dwarves he finds himself saving Snow White’s life twice, not to be kind, but so he would have a story to tell and so that there wouldn’t be the smell of a dead body.
Once Snow White takes the apple and falls to the floor for the 3rd time, Creepy is unable to help her and is not sure whether to escape to help in case he’s accused of murder. I won’t tell you what happens next but it’s a bit sad to be honest. It’s a good portrayal of how people are judged in life for being different, or for not looking good enough. This was a short poem and certainly adds a different perspective on the story that we’ve all watched and read over the years.
Verdict: Quite an interesting poem, something a bit different to read.
Dan(14)http://bigbooklittlebook.blogspot.com
February 27, 2012
Fairy tales have changed drastically over time. The brothers Grimm told stories that were much darker than the tales that are told today. Possibly, as time went by, their tales that often dealt with death and danger were not needed as much as they once were. Or, we simply reject the idea of fairy tale having anything other than a happy ending nowadays.
That certainly is not the direction that Michael Mullin takes his version of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. Getting back to the roots of what fairy tales were supposed to do, he tells the tale of Creepy, the 8th dwarf. Creepy is different from his housemates. His sense of humor, the way he does things and even his silence is looked upon as too much for the other seven to bear. Different is bad. He must be dealt with.
Locked in the cellar, Creepy is the only one privy to what really happened between Snow White and the disguised queen. And Snow White doesn’t necessarily come off as the sharpest tool in the shed. With kindness in his heart, and minor grumbling on his lips, Creepy does his best to help her out. But, even though purported to be pure as the driven snow, innocent and guileless, Snow White has her own issues with first impressions and judging a book by its cover. Read how Michael Mullin changes this classic story into one that teaches that even beautiful princesses can be afflicted with prejudice if not taught that ‘different’ can be a good thing. I thank the author for a review copy and I give this story 5 stars.
That certainly is not the direction that Michael Mullin takes his version of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. Getting back to the roots of what fairy tales were supposed to do, he tells the tale of Creepy, the 8th dwarf. Creepy is different from his housemates. His sense of humor, the way he does things and even his silence is looked upon as too much for the other seven to bear. Different is bad. He must be dealt with.
Locked in the cellar, Creepy is the only one privy to what really happened between Snow White and the disguised queen. And Snow White doesn’t necessarily come off as the sharpest tool in the shed. With kindness in his heart, and minor grumbling on his lips, Creepy does his best to help her out. But, even though purported to be pure as the driven snow, innocent and guileless, Snow White has her own issues with first impressions and judging a book by its cover. Read how Michael Mullin changes this classic story into one that teaches that even beautiful princesses can be afflicted with prejudice if not taught that ‘different’ can be a good thing. I thank the author for a review copy and I give this story 5 stars.
February 18, 2012
In A Nutshell:
I did not know what to expect when I won a copy of this short story--the concept did not initially draw me in. But I am glad I sat down and read it. I found the story to be one that will stick with me much longer than I expect--and for all the right reasons. It is well written and overall a lot of fun to read.
Review:
When I first started reading 8, I was drawn in by the almost lyrical, slightly rhyming, sing-songy verse. I almost started reading it to my daughter because it seemed so nice an innocent--but I quickly realized this short story was not written for kids (and I only mean that as an observation and not as a criticism).
8 is the story of the previously unknown dwarf from Snow White. Creepy is locked in the basement by the other dwarfs for being--well just a little too creepy. When Snow White arrives, the other dwarfs still do not let him out or even introduce him to her. But despite his captivity--he plays a critical role in helping Snow White get to her happily ever after.
After reading this short story I do not think I will look at the story of Snow White (and the seven--um I mean eight--dwarfs) the same way again. I feel like the next time I sit down with my daughter to watch the Disney version of the movie--I am going to be scouring the floorboards looking for signs of Creepy peeking up between the cracks.
I did not know what to expect when I won a copy of this short story--the concept did not initially draw me in. But I am glad I sat down and read it. I found the story to be one that will stick with me much longer than I expect--and for all the right reasons. It is well written and overall a lot of fun to read.
Review:
When I first started reading 8, I was drawn in by the almost lyrical, slightly rhyming, sing-songy verse. I almost started reading it to my daughter because it seemed so nice an innocent--but I quickly realized this short story was not written for kids (and I only mean that as an observation and not as a criticism).
8 is the story of the previously unknown dwarf from Snow White. Creepy is locked in the basement by the other dwarfs for being--well just a little too creepy. When Snow White arrives, the other dwarfs still do not let him out or even introduce him to her. But despite his captivity--he plays a critical role in helping Snow White get to her happily ever after.
After reading this short story I do not think I will look at the story of Snow White (and the seven--um I mean eight--dwarfs) the same way again. I feel like the next time I sit down with my daughter to watch the Disney version of the movie--I am going to be scouring the floorboards looking for signs of Creepy peeking up between the cracks.
April 4, 2012
See my full review here: http://melissaseclecticbookshelf.blog...
I hate to admit that I wasn't eagerly anticipating this read...I pushed it off on my TBR until I finally started feeling guilty, pulled it out, and quickly devoured this short tale told in all in rhyming verse. I had feared that the storytelling would be inhibited by the verse but it actually was very well done and enhanced the story.
I loved the spin that Mike Mullin put on the classic tale of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. In his version we get to meet an 8th Dwarf who has been banished by the others to live beneath the floorboards of their cabin. His crime...apparently simply being different! Being a "moody" night owl with different interests garnered him the name Creepy and a berth in the basement. No socialization...meals passed to him through a hole in the door...one isn't surprised then at his interactions with "The Maid."
This short tale is definitely worth the read! A charming bite sized twisted tale with an important social message about being an individual and the effects of being ostracized for it.
I hate to admit that I wasn't eagerly anticipating this read...I pushed it off on my TBR until I finally started feeling guilty, pulled it out, and quickly devoured this short tale told in all in rhyming verse. I had feared that the storytelling would be inhibited by the verse but it actually was very well done and enhanced the story.
I loved the spin that Mike Mullin put on the classic tale of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. In his version we get to meet an 8th Dwarf who has been banished by the others to live beneath the floorboards of their cabin. His crime...apparently simply being different! Being a "moody" night owl with different interests garnered him the name Creepy and a berth in the basement. No socialization...meals passed to him through a hole in the door...one isn't surprised then at his interactions with "The Maid."
This short tale is definitely worth the read! A charming bite sized twisted tale with an important social message about being an individual and the effects of being ostracized for it.
November 22, 2011
I was contacted by the author to give this story a go. At the complete opposite end of my normal reading genre (verse) I decided to give it a go, not really expecting much. After all, I did love the story f Snow White when I was a kid. I didn't read any other reviews before accepting or reading it so all I had to go one was the description the author sent me. I'm glad I did! Only eight pages on my Nook, there was a lot of story within. I really liked how it was told in verse also. It was cute, fun, and dark at the same time.
Poor Creepy, the dwarf no one knows about, has been banished by the other seven dwarfs to the basement because he is odd and different. With a little peep hole in the floor of the cottage he gets an up close and personal view of what goes on when Snow White shows up, from floor level at least.
Not for mid grade readers, there are hints of sexual innuendo so I would recommend adult or young adult readers. if you have a few minutes, 8 is worth your time...now I'm off to read it again :)
Poor Creepy, the dwarf no one knows about, has been banished by the other seven dwarfs to the basement because he is odd and different. With a little peep hole in the floor of the cottage he gets an up close and personal view of what goes on when Snow White shows up, from floor level at least.
Not for mid grade readers, there are hints of sexual innuendo so I would recommend adult or young adult readers. if you have a few minutes, 8 is worth your time...now I'm off to read it again :)
April 17, 2012
Today's review is on 8: The Previously Untold Story of the Previously Unknown 8th Dwarf by Michael Mullin
As Mullin states in this book, many tales that have been spun by authors such as The Brothers Grimm, have been altered through the years to provide the elusive Happily Ever After. Truth be told however, not everyone gets that happy ending. Nor does good always triumph over evil. That is just one reason why I really enjoyed 8.
Written with the prose of a seasoned rhymer, 8 is filled with witty sarcasm that flows effortlessly from one sentence to the next. (If you can read this book without a smile on your face, I would be very surprised.)
What really happened to Snow White? In 8 you're given an even more plausible rendition; than that of Walt Disney, with the help of the unknown 8th dwarf.
Quick witted and all around cute, I love this dark take on this well loved tale. But what happened to the 8th dwarf in the end? Give me just one more page to let me know.
4 of 5 stars
Available @ Amazon
As Mullin states in this book, many tales that have been spun by authors such as The Brothers Grimm, have been altered through the years to provide the elusive Happily Ever After. Truth be told however, not everyone gets that happy ending. Nor does good always triumph over evil. That is just one reason why I really enjoyed 8.
Written with the prose of a seasoned rhymer, 8 is filled with witty sarcasm that flows effortlessly from one sentence to the next. (If you can read this book without a smile on your face, I would be very surprised.)
What really happened to Snow White? In 8 you're given an even more plausible rendition; than that of Walt Disney, with the help of the unknown 8th dwarf.
Quick witted and all around cute, I love this dark take on this well loved tale. But what happened to the 8th dwarf in the end? Give me just one more page to let me know.
4 of 5 stars
Available @ Amazon
July 6, 2012
Everyone knows the story of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. Snow White winds up at the house of the seven dwarfs and is subsequently found by the evil Queen and poisoned by eating the Queen’s apple. If Mullin’s tale is to be believed, Snow White had a helper who was instrumental in her survival of the Queen’s first two attacks (the poisoned comb and magical shawl). This “helper” is a quirky, odd, and strange dwarf that’s been locked in the basement due to his weird antics.
Mullin’s 8th dwarf is a fascinating enigma, one with surprising depth. I really enjoyed the originality of his tale and the surprising twist at the end. Also noteworthy is Mullin’s ability to pen this tale in verse. There were times when the rhyming and punctuation locations made the speech slightly awkward, but the majority of the work flowed quite well. This is definitely a fun and fast read that any teen will be sure to enjoy.
Kimberly (Reflections of a Book Addict)
Originally Posted: http://wp.me/p18lIL-16v
Mullin’s 8th dwarf is a fascinating enigma, one with surprising depth. I really enjoyed the originality of his tale and the surprising twist at the end. Also noteworthy is Mullin’s ability to pen this tale in verse. There were times when the rhyming and punctuation locations made the speech slightly awkward, but the majority of the work flowed quite well. This is definitely a fun and fast read that any teen will be sure to enjoy.
Kimberly (Reflections of a Book Addict)
Originally Posted: http://wp.me/p18lIL-16v
October 19, 2011
Everyone knows the story of Snow White. At least, they think they do. This very short book is a quirky take on a traditional tale. Told in rhyming verse, it tells the story of Creepy, the until now unknown 8th dwarf. Banished to the basement, Creepy is very surprised when a random maiden appears in his house. Little does he know, things are about to change. For everyone but him.
I loved this story so much! If Dr. Seuss had decided to twist fairy tales, this would be the result. It's smart and funny. A very quick read, it is sure to entertain. It will definitely make you see the old story of Snow White in a new way. Creepy is an unlikely hero, and it makes you want to cheer for him all the more. I will never see Snow White the same, and when a tale this short can do that it's a clear indication of the author's skill. Highly recommend this for fans of fairy tales and twisted tales alike.
Book provided for review.
I loved this story so much! If Dr. Seuss had decided to twist fairy tales, this would be the result. It's smart and funny. A very quick read, it is sure to entertain. It will definitely make you see the old story of Snow White in a new way. Creepy is an unlikely hero, and it makes you want to cheer for him all the more. I will never see Snow White the same, and when a tale this short can do that it's a clear indication of the author's skill. Highly recommend this for fans of fairy tales and twisted tales alike.
Book provided for review.
January 15, 2012
This story line was so clever and entertaining...kudos to the author!
I love this review from the blog "Reading Reality" http://www.readingreality.net/2011/12...
"Then 'the Maid' showed up. Fairy tales usually refer to her as Snow White. Creepy saw everything! Absolutely everything. And heard everything too. The floors, well, there were some holes in those floorboards.
His brothers never told the poor girl that there was a dwarf literally under her feet. So she cooked and cleaned while he spied on her. What else was he supposed to do? She kept sweeping the dust from the floor into his living space!
But when the Evil Witch knocked on the door, he heard everything then too. Did you ever wonder why Snow White let the witch in? Creepy’s “floor’s eye view” of the classic tale, his understandably jaundiced view, is laugh-out-loud funny. And not to be missed!"
I love this review from the blog "Reading Reality" http://www.readingreality.net/2011/12...
"Then 'the Maid' showed up. Fairy tales usually refer to her as Snow White. Creepy saw everything! Absolutely everything. And heard everything too. The floors, well, there were some holes in those floorboards.
His brothers never told the poor girl that there was a dwarf literally under her feet. So she cooked and cleaned while he spied on her. What else was he supposed to do? She kept sweeping the dust from the floor into his living space!
But when the Evil Witch knocked on the door, he heard everything then too. Did you ever wonder why Snow White let the witch in? Creepy’s “floor’s eye view” of the classic tale, his understandably jaundiced view, is laugh-out-loud funny. And not to be missed!"
October 18, 2011
8: The Previously Untold Story of the Previously Unknown 8th Dwarf is a short retelling of the Snow White fairy-tale. Creepy is the 8th dwarf that is banished to the basement in the cottage because he is different than the others.
Written in poem form, 8 is a fast fun read that sheds a new light on the beloved fairy-tale. The new twist is creative and quirky, and even a bit dark. The verse is fantastic and the entire time I was thinking how this would be awesome if I was at an actual author reading!
The cover was attractive, but the pictures, although bold on an eReader, did not impress me as much as the words did.
This easily would be successful as a picture book for YA, and I would greatly enjoy it if the author continues the theme for a collection of re-tellings. The price on amazon is a steal for this fun read.
Written in poem form, 8 is a fast fun read that sheds a new light on the beloved fairy-tale. The new twist is creative and quirky, and even a bit dark. The verse is fantastic and the entire time I was thinking how this would be awesome if I was at an actual author reading!
The cover was attractive, but the pictures, although bold on an eReader, did not impress me as much as the words did.
This easily would be successful as a picture book for YA, and I would greatly enjoy it if the author continues the theme for a collection of re-tellings. The price on amazon is a steal for this fun read.
September 9, 2016
I love the retelling of stories and myths and so was eager to read 8: The Previously Untold Story of the Previously Unknown 8th Dwarf. It is a short story,only 7 pages long, written in verse and is about Creepy, the up until now unknown 8th dwarf from Snow White and the 7 Dwarfs.
This was a fun, clever, short read. The poetry was easy to get into and there was a quirky humour throughout. Creepy was really creepy, even the other dwarfs didn't like him, but he also had a certain practicality about him. I have found myself frustrated by Snow White myself and how gullible she is, so I enjoyed reading Creepy's encounters with her.
This is definitely an adult read, but one that is quick and entertaining. I love dark humour and this certainly fits the bill.
Disclosure: book recieved from the author for review.
This was a fun, clever, short read. The poetry was easy to get into and there was a quirky humour throughout. Creepy was really creepy, even the other dwarfs didn't like him, but he also had a certain practicality about him. I have found myself frustrated by Snow White myself and how gullible she is, so I enjoyed reading Creepy's encounters with her.
This is definitely an adult read, but one that is quick and entertaining. I love dark humour and this certainly fits the bill.
Disclosure: book recieved from the author for review.
March 16, 2013
(Source: I received a digital copy of this book for free on a read-to-review basis. Thanks to author Michael Mullin.)
This is a short story about the 8th dwarf from the story ‘Snow White and the Seven Dwarves’. The 8th Dwarf is called ‘Creepy’ and he doesn’t get along with the other dwarves!
The story is told in verse, and is actually quite funny. I often think it’s difficult to re-tell a fairy-tale in a new and interesting way, but the author pulls this off in style!
I thought this was really fun and inventive, and I think it could be even better read out loud to kids! This is one that parents will enjoy also though, especially as there were a couple of tongue-in-cheek lines, and really did make me smile!
Overall; a fun and refreshing fairy-tale story that will make you laugh!
8 out of 10.
This is a short story about the 8th dwarf from the story ‘Snow White and the Seven Dwarves’. The 8th Dwarf is called ‘Creepy’ and he doesn’t get along with the other dwarves!
The story is told in verse, and is actually quite funny. I often think it’s difficult to re-tell a fairy-tale in a new and interesting way, but the author pulls this off in style!
I thought this was really fun and inventive, and I think it could be even better read out loud to kids! This is one that parents will enjoy also though, especially as there were a couple of tongue-in-cheek lines, and really did make me smile!
Overall; a fun and refreshing fairy-tale story that will make you laugh!
8 out of 10.
December 18, 2011
8 is a cleverly penned short, twisted tale about the eighth dwarf. At just over 2000 words it is zippy and smart and written in verse. On the one-hand it is a humorous offering to tickle your fancy and bring a smile, while on the other, it provokes serious contemplation about quirks, odd traits, and non-conformity. The story skates the edge between funny and sad, causing one to ponder some uncomfortable truths concerning fitting-in, belonging, and the desire to be accepted, warts and all. I loved this whimsical tale of Creepy, the eighth dwarf. Misunderstood, maligned? Perhaps; perhaps not. Read it and draw your own conclusion.
This book was given to me by the author in exchange for my honest review.
This book was given to me by the author in exchange for my honest review.
January 24, 2012
We all know the story of Snow White. But what do we know about the Seven Dwarves? They lived together in the forest and mined gems. But what if that was not the entire story? What if there was another dwarf, Creepy, that didn’t fit in and was locking in the basement because he was different?
This is Creepy’s story about how this lady breaks into the house and agrees to cook and clean to stay there. She is not the brightest of creatures since she almost dies a couple times and Creepy has to save her.
I loved this story/poem, and I admit that I’m not a fan of verse. Poor Creepy is shunned because of his behavior. The twist on Snow White was great too. Although really short, if you like your fairy tales with a new twist, you will really like this.
This is Creepy’s story about how this lady breaks into the house and agrees to cook and clean to stay there. She is not the brightest of creatures since she almost dies a couple times and Creepy has to save her.
I loved this story/poem, and I admit that I’m not a fan of verse. Poor Creepy is shunned because of his behavior. The twist on Snow White was great too. Although really short, if you like your fairy tales with a new twist, you will really like this.
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