by Jennifer Craven

When it comes to writing a novel, authors hear countless quotes from industry experts offering tips like:

“Don’t reinvent the wheel.”

“No storyline is ever completely new.”

“If you see it once, you’ll see it again and again.”

All of these expressions remind me of one particular genre: literary retellings. This category has boomed in recent years, with more authors taking a stab at their own version of an older story. Many retellings center on fairy tales or classic literature, such as “Pride and Prejudice.” Truly, no other author’s work has been reimagined more than our gal pal Jane Austen.

Doesn’t everyone remember reading (or being forced to read) the classics in school? My guess is not many teens would admit to really enjoying those books at that time. But the thing about retellings is it gives readers a chance to experience some of the cornerstones of great literature in a new way. Many retellings are set in modern times, or retold from different character perspectives. They’re great ways to understand and appreciate enduring narratives from an approachable angle.

On the flip side, you’ve got readers who love and have always loved these timeless tales. Maybe you’ve heard people gush that they’re the biggest “Little Women” fans ever (er wait, is that just me?). Louisa May Alcott is another author whose work has been retold in countless novels and from an array of perspectives. Readers are drawn to stories that feel familiar, with both recognizable settings, storylines and beloved characters.

There’s a sense of nostalgia that accompanies re-imaginings. It feels good and comfortable to dive back into the lives of characters you love. Plus, it’s just plain old fun! Who doesn’t love taking a well-known story and flipping it on its head? Hearing Little Red Riding Hood from the perspective of the Big Bad Wolf? Yes, please! A drama where Jo March ends up with Laurie? (Okay, again, there’s my own inner desires coming through). Even children’s books have jumped on the trend, with tons of fairytales and myths coming alive again in retellings.

I think readers have strong preferences when it comes to genres they seek. But for those who are drawn to reimagined stories, there’s an underlying obsessiveness—and I mean that in the best way possible, particularly because I fit into this category, too. It’s almost as though once you’ve read one, you want to read them all. Show me any iteration of Cinderella, and I’ll read it.

There are lots of authors who have dabbled in this genre, but one that sticks out to me in terms of success and notoriety is Curtis Sittenfeld. Several of her titles have been fascinating reimagined stories of both classic literature and even well-known living politicians. The “what if” trope is always central to these books. What if the original plot would have skewed left instead of right? What if character A would have made this choice instead of that? The element of “suppose that…” lets readers’ imaginations sweep them away. And who can resist that?

When I began brainstorming my latest novel, the idea of writing a retelling just would not leave me alone. The plot consumed me, the story begging to be told. I knew right away that I would use my favorite film, “The Sound of Music,” as a jumping off point for this reimagining. I’d seen the movie countless times, knew the characters inside and out, and could recite lines unprompted. It was a childhood (and later adulthood) staple. Yet, each time I’d watch the film, I’d find myself wondering what happened next. A headstrong, devoted father; a spirited mother; seven innocent children. As they climbed the Alps to freedom, and as the film credits rolled, my mind wove a new story that picked up from that point.

For me, writing a retelling was different than writing any other genre of fiction. It had a certain sense of closeness, an intimacy if you will, that was both enjoyable but also daunting. The thing is, readers love retold literature, which is reassuring—but also comes with a dose of intimidation. What if they don’t like your approach? What if they think you’ve butchered the original? These are all thoughts that hang over an author’s head like a rain cloud ready to pour down unfavorable reviews.

But at the end of the day—like any writer—the story won. I followed my gut with where the plot went, ultimately coming to a place where I felt I honored the classic and created a fresh extension full of heart.

Retellings will continue to be among my favorite genres. And as more and more readers discover the enchantment, I hope authors will continue spinning stories from stories, giving all of us a chance to escape into something truly magical.

Jennifer Craven is the author of two historical fiction novels: "All That Shines and Whispers" and "A Long Way From Blair Street." She has bylines in numerous national publications, including The Washington Post, HuffPost, Motherly, Today's Parent and more. In addition to writing, Jennifer is a mom to three young children, as well as a college instructor at Mercyhurst University in Erie, Pa. Follow her on instagram at @jennifercravenauthor.