Many authors have ventured into the realm of retelling folktales or weaving new fantasy narratives tailored for younger audiences. Noteworthy examples include Robin McKinley’s Beauty: A Retelling of Beauty and the Beast, published in 1978, and Jane Yolen’s Briar Rose, released in 1992. These authors have reimagined classic tales within fresh contexts and plots. In contrast, Natalie Babbitt carves a unique niche with her distinctive approach to fantasy. She adeptly utilizes the narrative frameworks of folklore and fable to craft enchanting novels that delve into profound moral inquiries. Her works resonate with the mystique of oral traditions, offering a sense of timelessness and depth.

Babbitt’s Kneeknock Rise, honored as a Newbery Honor Book in 1971, offers a prime example of her storytelling prowess. Despite being warmly received by critics, it remains somewhat overshadowed by her more celebrated work, Tuck Everlasting (1975). The latter novel tells the poignant tale of a family that stumbles upon a spring granting eternal life, posing thought-provoking questions about the essence of mortality and immortality. Both novels highlight Babbitt's ability to construct imaginative worlds that compel readers to reflect deeply on human connections and the underlying essence of humanity.