Fairy Tales of Remnant: An AFK Book (RWBY)

By E. C. Myers

Fairy Tales of Remnant: An AFK Book Review

Overview

Fairy Tales of Remnant by E.C. Myers is a supplementary work to the popular animated web series, RWBY. This book delves into the rich lore of Remnant, providing a collection of in-universe fairy tales, myths, and legends that offer deeper insight into the world's history, cultures, and its ongoing conflict with the creatures of Grimm. These aren't just simple children's stories; they carry weight, reflecting the fears, aspirations, and moral frameworks of the people of Remnant. The book aims to provide context and background for events and themes present in the main RWBY series.

Detailed Review

Content and Structure

• Anthology Format: The book is structured as a collection of various tales, each presented as if they are a part of Remnant's oral and literary tradition. This means diverse writing styles are employed, varying in tone and narrative voice.
• Moral and Thematic Depth: Unlike many children's stories, these fairy tales often explore complex themes such as the nature of good and evil, the impact of fear, the consequences of choices, and the importance of unity in the face of adversity. They're not sugar-coated, sometimes containing darker elements that reflect the harsh realities of Remnant.
• Worldbuilding Through Story: The tales are more than just entertaining; they reveal crucial aspects of Remnant's cultures, history, and the origins of certain traditions. They provide context to things mentioned in the main series, such as the Great War or the nature of the Maidens.
• Connections to RWBY: While functioning as standalone stories, many tales directly or indirectly connect to the plot and characters of RWBY. Knowing the series adds a layer of resonance to the tales, and recognizing these links is part of the fun for fans.

Writing Style and Tone

• Varied Narrative Voices: Each story uses a different narrative style and perspective, reflecting the origins of the tale within Remnant. This ranges from epic poetry to simplistic folk narratives.
• Immersive Experience: Myers effectively captures the feel of a collection of in-universe texts. The language and structure mimic old folktales, legends, and myths, making the reader feel as though they are reading something actually found in Remnant.
• Emotional Resonance: The tales manage to evoke genuine emotion, from the despair of tragedy to the hope of triumph. They provide insight into the psychology of the people of Remnant and their worldview.

Strengths

• Expansive Worldbuilding: Significantly enriches the lore of RWBY, providing important background information and context.
• Engaging Storytelling: The tales are captivating and enjoyable, even without knowledge of the main series.
• Connection to RWBY: For fans, the direct and subtle links to the main series add a layer of enjoyment and appreciation.
• Provides Answers and Raises Questions: Answers questions that have lingered while raising new questions that will keep the fans engaged and eager for more.
• Unique Perspective: Offers a unique perspective on the world of Remnant from the perspective of its inhabitants.

Weaknesses

• May Require Familiarity with RWBY: While enjoyable on their own, the book is more impactful with some knowledge of the main series. New readers might find some nuances or references less meaningful.
• Not a Novel: Readers looking for a continuous narrative with main characters will be disappointed. The anthology format might not appeal to everyone.
• Some Tales are More Impactful: As with any anthology, some tales will resonate more strongly than others with each reader. The pacing and length of each story differ and some may find certain stories less exciting than others.

Summary

Fairy Tales of Remnant is a must-read for any fan of the RWBY franchise. E.C. Myers has done an excellent job crafting a collection of immersive and thought-provoking stories that not only expand upon the existing lore but also offer a glimpse into the heart and soul of Remnant. While the anthology format may not be for everyone, the book's strengths in worldbuilding, storytelling, and emotional impact far outweigh its weaknesses. This book successfully brings the rich and dangerous world of Remnant to life in a new and exciting way, enriching the experience for both long-time fans and newcomers.

Overall Rating

4.5 out of 5 stars. Highly recommended for fans of RWBY and those who enjoy fairy tales with depth and rich lore.

Buy the book here.