Friday Mood Recs: 8 clever retellings of classic literature
Plus 3 retellings I didn't enjoy
This week I started reading one of my most anticipated releases of 2025, The Favorites by Layne Fargo (out January 14th). In some ways this book is different than my typical reading: it’s a fast-paced, plotty, page turner. But in another way it feels as if it was manufactured in a lab specifically for me: it’s a retelling of Wuthering Heights set in the world of elite ice dancing. (If you don’t know, I love Wuthering Heights and I was a pretty serious competitive ice dancer in my youth). So far I am really loving the book. There have been a couple of ice dance details that are inaccurate, but I can tell that Fargo loves the sport and did a ton of research in preparation for the book. I’m also having so much fun with the WH elements. My favorite part is that Fargo uses modified but recognizable names from the classic which makes the whole endeavor feel like a nerdy easter egg hunt—and I’m game!
I have a complicated relationship with classic retellings in general. I am always eager to read them, but am oftel left feeling disappointed. I think this is often because every retelling is also a work of literary criticism. Whether it’s their primary goal or not, authors are offering us an interpretation of the classic when they retell the story. When I strongly disagree with the author’s interpretation, I have a hard time getting fully on board with the book. This might be unfair or ungenerous, but, try as I might, I simply can’t help it. I think this is why I tend to like retellings that don’t take themselves too seriously. Playful nods to the classic, thoughtful but quirky settings, and little doses of weirdness go a long way.
So, inspired by The Favorites, today I’m sharing six classic retellings I love—and three I do not. You won’t find James on today’s list or big blockbusters like Circe not because I don’t love them but because I wanted to feature a few less widely read novels. I hope I can help you find your next great reimagining!