Unparalleled inspiration from fierce grandmothers,misunderstood witchesglamorous fairy godmothersand hairy-chinned hags From early childhoodwe learn about the world and its possibilities through myths and fairy tales. The heroinesthoughtend to be young princesses or fair maidensand the evildoers older women: wicked witches or unforgiving matriarchs. Yet a wealth of lesser-known European stories feature mature wise women with personality and power. Compiling many years of researchSharon Blackie has reclaimed these talespresenting them in evocative prose that will resonate with women of all ages. This dazzling array of not-to-be-messed-with older characters provides compelling role models for todayΓÇÖs readerswho seek to redefine their relationship with aging. These women outwit monsterstest and mentor younger heroinesembody the cycles of the Earthweave the world into being ΓÇö and almost always have the last laugh. Each story is accompanied by background commentary that highlights important themes and reveals its insights into how we might live meaningfully and authentically in the second half of life.