Snow White

Snow White is a 1967 postmodern reimagining of the classic fairy tale, set in contemporary America. The story follows Snow White and seven men who live together in a city apartment. The narrative shifts between different characters' perspectives, including Snow White, the seven men, and Jane - a figure inspired by the traditional evil stepmother. The men wash buildings for a living while Snow White grapples with her identity and desires. The novel presents its story through fragments, lists, and unconventional formatting that break from traditional storytelling methods. Characters engage in philosophical discussions and struggle with modern life's absurdities. This experimental work explores themes of identity, power dynamics, and the tension between fairy tale ideals and reality. The novel challenges readers' expectations about narrative structure and the nature of storytelling itself.

Readers call this a surreal, experimental retelling that bears little resemblance to the traditional fairy tale. The postmodern style and abstract narrative leave many feeling confused or frustrated. Positive reviews highlight: - The innovative wordplay and language - Dark humor and social commentary - Reimagining of familiar characters - Paul Snow's imaginative illustrations Common criticisms: - Hard to follow plotline - Too abstract and fragmented - Characters feel distant and cold - Style overshadows substance Review metrics: Goodreads: 3.7/5 (1,200+ ratings) Amazon: 3.8/5 (40+ ratings) "Like trying to read a dream," notes one Goodreads reviewer. Another calls it "brilliant but exhausting." Amazon reviews frequently mention needing multiple readings to grasp the narrative. Several readers recommend starting with Barthelme's short stories before tackling this novel. A LibraryThing reviewer summarizes: "Not for those seeking traditional storytelling, but rewards patient readers willing to embrace its experimental nature."

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★ Donald Barthelme served as the managing editor of a Houston arts magazine and worked as a reporter before becoming one of the most influential postmodern writers of the 20th century. ★ "Snow White" (1967) was Barthelme's first novel, though he had already established himself as a master of short fiction through publications in The New Yorker. ★ The seven men in the novel work as Chinese food delivery drivers, rather than mining precious gems like their fairy tale counterparts. ★ The book's unique formatting includes questionnaires for readers, blank pages, and unconventional typography - revolutionary techniques for literary fiction in the 1960s. ★ While the traditional Snow White was created by the Brothers Grimm in 1812, versions of the tale date back to medieval European folklore, with elements found in stories from various cultures worldwide.