The Language of Thorns by Leigh Bardugo

The Language of Thorns (The Language of Thorns)

by Leigh Bardugo

From bestselling author of SIX OF CROWS, Leigh Bardugo, comes a lavishly illustrated collection of short stories filled with betrayals, revenge, sacrifice and love.

Inspired by myth, fairy tale and folklore, THE LANGUAGE OF THORNS will transport you to both lands familiar and strange that millions have visited through the novels of the Grishaverse.

Love speaks in flowers. Truth requires thorns.

Travel to a world of dark bargains struck by moonlight, of haunted towns and hungry woods, of talking beasts and gingerbread golems, where a young mermaid's voice can summon deadly storms and where a river might do a lovestruck boy's bidding but only for a terrible price.

Inspired by myth, fairy tale, and folklore, no. 1 New York Times-bestselling author Leigh Bardugo has crafted a deliciously atmospheric collection of short stories filled with betrayals, revenge, sacrifice, and love.

Perfect for new readers and dedicated fans of the Grishverse.

This collection of six stories includes three brand-new tales, all of them beautifully illustrated with art by Sara Kiplin that changes with each turn of the page, culminating in six stunning full-spread illustrations as rich in detail as the stories themselves.

Reviewed by nightingalereads on

4 of 5 stars

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Overall, I'd give this collection of Grisha fairytales a solid 4 stars. The only reason it missed a 5 is because it's difficult for short stories to evoke strong feelings of love in me. Unlike with most short-story collections, every single tale in this book I found to be engaging, beautiful, and unique. (I say unique for what they are - Grisha retellings. Obviously, the stories draw inspiration from Hans Christian Anderson, the Grimm Brothers, and other classic fairytales authors!) I did, though, enjoy some stories more than others, just based on personal preferences.

Individual Story Ratings:

Ayama and the Thorn Wood - 4.5 stars 3
- (recommend if you like Beauty & the Beast)
The Too-Clever Fox - 4 stars
- (recommend if you like stories from Aesop's Fables)
The Witch of Duva - 3.25 stars
- (recommend if you like Hansel & Gretel)
Little Knife - 3.25 stars
- (not sure of the inspiration; it felt very unique)
The Soldier Prince - 3 stars
- (recommend if you like The Nutcracker)
When Water Sang Fire - 3.5 stars
- (recommend if you like The Little Mermaid)

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  • 31 May, 2017: Reviewed