Liz Braswell's "What Once Was Mine" offers a compelling and darker reimagining of the Rapunzel fairy tale, fitting perfectly within the popular "A Twisted Tale" series. In this version, Rapunzel's silver hair, a result of the Moondrop flower, possesses destructive magic, leading to her isolation in a tower under Mother Gothel's watchful eye for eighteen years. Believing her imprisonment is for the kingdom's safety, Rapunzel yearns for freedom and the mysterious floating lights that appear on her birthday. Her eventual escape thrusts her into an unexpected adventure alongside a would-be outlaw, Gina, and the rogue Flynn Rider, forcing her to confront the true nature of her past, her powers, and her destiny. The narrative handles the sensitive topics of dangerous power and forced isolation by making them central to Rapunzel's character development. Her internal struggle with her abilities and her quest for self-acceptance are portrayed with depth, rather than being merely a plot device. The emotional arc begins with a sense of confinement and fear, gradually shifting to adventurous curiosity and fierce determination, culminating in a powerful journey of self-discovery and empowerment. This book is specifically for young adult readers, aged 12-18, who have outgrown traditional fairy tales and are seeking a more complex, character-driven fantasy that challenges familiar narratives. A parent might reach for this book when their child is exploring themes of identity, independence, or grappling with feelings of being different. Parents could prepare by discussing the concept of power, responsibility, and how intentions shape actions, as the story often blurs traditional lines of hero and villain. Younger teens might be drawn to the adventure and mystery, while older teens will appreciate the deeper exploration of moral ambiguity and self-determination. What sets this book apart from other Rapunzel retellings is its fundamental alteration of Rapunzel's magic from healing to destructive, which completely reshapes her character, her relationships, and the stakes of her journey, offering a fresh and thought-provoking perspective.
