Once upon a time, in a land where bedtime battles were fierce and imaginations ran wild, there was one thing that never failed to bring kids and parents together—fairy tales. These timeless stories have been sparking dreams, teaching lessons, and fueling little imaginations for centuries. From cunning tricksters to daring heroes, enchanted castles to talking animals, the best popular fairy tales for kids do more than entertain—they teach bravery, kindness, and the power of believing in the impossible. And let’s be honest—sometimes they’re just plain fun!
The Ultimate List of Fairy Tales Every Kid Should Know
In this blog, we’re diving into 15 of the most beloved fairy tales that have stood the test of time. SHAPLABOO has carefully selected these enchanting adventures, filled with wonder, wisdom, and just the right amount of happily-ever-after. So, grab a blanket, snuggle up, and get ready to rediscover the magic of storytelling!
1. The Wonderful Wizard of Oz
2. Puss in Boots
3. Thumbelina
4. The Jungle Book
5. Cinderella
6. Aladdin and the Magic Lamp
7. The Nutcracker
8. The Snow Queen
9. The Little Prince
10. The Little Mermaid
11. The Bremen Town Musicians
12. The Little Gold Key
13. Dino The Brave Explorer
14. Easter Egg Hunt
15. A Tale for Halloween
Why Classic Fairy Tales Are More Than Just Stories
Sure, classic fairy tales are filled with talking animals, enchanted forests, and daring rescues—but they’re not just whimsical bedtime stories. These tales have been passed down for generations, shaping how kids see the world, handle challenges, and dream big.
Fairy tales aren’t just about magic—they’re about lessons, emotions, and the kind of adventure that sticks with you long after the last page is turned. Here’s why they matter more than ever:
Imagination Takes Flight – These stories transport kids to far-off castles, talking trees, and worlds where anything is possible. Imagination is the first step to creativity—and who knows? Maybe today’s young reader will be tomorrow’s great storyteller.
Moral Lessons (Without the Boredom) – A hungry wolf learns his lesson, a brave princess saves the day, a clever trickster outwits a villain—all teaching kids about honesty, kindness, bravery, and the power of good choices.
Big Feelings, Safe Spaces – Classic fairy tales introduce kids to love, fear, excitement, and triumph. They see characters struggle, fail, and rise again—helping them understand their own emotions in a way that feels safe and familiar.
Problem-Solving & Quick Thinking – Let’s face it—life isn’t always a fairy tale, but these stories teach kids how to navigate tricky situations. Whether it’s outwitting a wicked stepmother or finding courage in the face of fear, fairy tales encourage critical thinking and resilience.
Bonding & Bedtime Magic – Snuggling up with a classic fairy tale is more than just a bedtime routine—it’s a memory in the making. These stories create shared experiences between kids and parents, turning simple storytime into cherished moments that last a lifetime.
So, the next time you flip through a fairy tale, remember—it’s not just a story. It’s a lesson, an adventure, and a little bit of magic wrapped up in every word.
1. The Wonderful Wizard of Oz
What do you do when a tornado drops your house in the middle of a magical land and you suddenly have a pair of enchanted silver slippers and a hit on your head from an angry witch? If you’re Dorothy, you grab your little dog, make some oddball friends, and set off on an epic adventure.
One of the most beloved classic fairy tales, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum isn’t just about a girl skipping down a yellow road—it’s about courage, self-discovery, and the surprising power of friendship. Along the way, Dorothy teams up with a Scarecrow in search of brains, a Tin Man who just wants a heart, and a Cowardly Lion trying to find his roar. (Spoiler: They all had what they needed inside them all along.)
💡 Lesson #1: Home is where the heart is. No matter how far you travel (even across dimensions), your loved ones are what truly make a place feel like home.
💡 Lesson #2: Believe in yourself. Dorothy, the Scarecrow, the Tin Man, and the Lion didn’t need a wizard to fix their problems—they had the strength, smarts, and courage all along. (Life lesson: You’re more capable than you think!)
💡 Lesson #3: Friendship makes us stronger. Whether you’re facing flying monkeys, melting witches, or just a really tough day, the people who stick by your side make all the difference.
Packed with adventure, heartwarming moments, and just the right amount of magic, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz is a timeless bedtime story that reminds kids (and let’s be honest, adults too) that sometimes, everything we need is already inside us.
2. Puss in Boots
Ever think you need muscles or magic to get ahead in life? Think again! Puss in Boots proves that all you really need is a sharp mind, a silver tongue, and a fabulous pair of boots.
Instead of chasing mice or napping in sunbeams like an ordinary cat, Puss is out here playing 4D chess while everyone else is still figuring out checkers. Armed with nothing but his wit, charm, and an impressive sense of style, he tricks a king, outsmarts a terrifying ogre, and turns his penniless owner into a nobleman.
💡 Lesson #1: Brains beat brawn. No sword fights necessary—just quick thinking, confidence, and a well-timed trick or two.
💡 Lesson #2: Confidence is everything. Puss doesn’t wait for luck—he creates his own success with bold moves and big ideas. (Manifestation, fairy-tale style!)
💡 Lesson #3: A little humor goes a long way. This tale is proof that charm, cleverness, and a touch of mischief can take you far (especially if you have great footwear).
With unexpected twists, a hilarious hero, and a fairy-tale glow-up of epic proportions, Puss in Boots is a timeless reminder that sometimes the sharpest minds wear the fanciest boots.
3. Thumbelina
Ever feel like the world is just way too big and you’re way too small to make a difference? Well, Thumbelina gets it. She’s literally no bigger than a thumb and still manages to survive kidnappings, bad suitors, and some seriously questionable living arrangements (underground with a mole? Hard pass!).
One of the most enchanting classic fairy tales, Hans Christian Andersen’s Thumbelina follows this tiny but mighty heroine as she dodges frog weddings, outsmarts beetles, and finds her own happy ending—all without losing her kindness or courage.
💡 Lesson #1: Size doesn’t matter. (Seriously!) Thumbelina might be small, but she’s got a giant-sized heart and the determination to match.
💡 Lesson #2: Stay true to yourself. When faced with a fancy underground mole mansion, she doesn’t settle—she holds out for real happiness. (And fresh air. Because, ew.)
💡 Lesson #3: Kindness gets you everywhere. Thumbelina helps those in need, and in the end? They help her right back. (It’s the fairy tale version of good karma!).
A true classic fairy tale, Thumbelina is the ultimate reminder that being small doesn’t mean you can’t dream big. And that sometimes, your wings (or your true love) show up when you least expect them.
4. The Jungle Book
If Tarzan had a younger, scrappier, jungle-raised cousin, it would be Mowgli. The Jungle Book, one of Rudyard Kipling’s most famous fairy tales, follows this fearless boy as he swings through the treetops, outsmarts a power-hungry tiger, and tries to figure out where he truly belongs.
🐺 Raised by wolves? Check.
🐍 Advised by a wise python? Yep.
🐻 Hangs out with a fun-loving, honey-stealing bear? You bet.
While The Jungle Book technically isn’t a fairy tale, it has all the makings of one—talking animals, thrilling adventures, and a powerful moral at its heart. Like the best classic fairy tales, it teaches:
💡 Lesson #1: Family isn’t just about blood. Whether you’re raised by wolves or humans, love and loyalty make a family. (And if your family includes a singing bear? Even better!)
💡 Lesson #2: Respect nature—and the wild things in it. The jungle may look like a dream playground, but it has rules, and Mowgli learns to survive by respecting the world around him.
💡 Lesson #3: Find your place—but don’t forget who you are. Mowgli struggles to belong, caught between the human world and the wild, but in the end, he learns that home isn’t just a place—it’s where you’re loved.
Packed with thrills, humor, and life lessons, The Jungle Book remains one of the most unforgettable coming-of-age adventures—reminding kids that no matter how wild the world may be, home is where the heart (and maybe a bear named Baloo) is. 🐾🌿✨
5. Cinderella
If fairy tale makeovers had a champion, Cinderella would take the crown (and the glass slipper!). One of the most beloved kids fairy tales of all time, Cinderella is the ultimate rags-to-riches story—complete with an evil stepmother, a magical fairy godmother, and a pumpkin that doubles as a ride.
But this story isn’t just about wishing on a star—it’s about perseverance, kindness, and knowing your own worth, even when the world tries to dim your sparkle.
✨ Lesson #1: Kindness wins. Cinderella doesn’t let mean girls, endless chores, or an overworked wardrobe break her spirit. Her patience and goodness pay off in the end.
✨ Lesson #2: Believe in your own magic. Sure, a fairy godmother helps, but Cinderella shows up to that ball as the best version of herself. (And let’s be real—she was always royalty material.)
✨ Lesson #3: Know your worth. A prince, a palace, a new dress? Nice perks. But Cinderella’s biggest win? She never let anyone define her. (And also, she mastered walking in glass shoes—legend!).
From magical transformations to ultimate justice served (bye, evil stepmother!), Cinderella remains one of the most beloved kids fairy tales, proving that sometimes, all it takes to change your life is a little courage, a lot of kindness, and the perfect pair of shoes.
6. Aladdin and the Magic Lamp
If you found a magic lamp, what would you wish for? A mountain of gold? A flying carpet? Unlimited pizza? (We don’t judge!). In Aladdin, one of the most popular fairy tales ever told, a street-smart dreamer discovers a genie, a kingdom-changing secret, and the true meaning of honesty.
Aladdin starts off as a nobody, a kid hustling to survive, but after one fateful lamp rub, he’s suddenly got palace-sized dreams—and a genie to help make them come true. But here’s the catch: no amount of magic can change who you really are.
💡 Lesson #1: Honesty beats illusion. Sure, Aladdin pretends to be a prince to impress Jasmine (we’ve all been there…sort of?), but only when he’s himself does he truly win her heart.
💡 Lesson #2: Power and riches aren’t everything. You can have a magic carpet, a golden palace, and a genie bestie, but at the end of the day, integrity matters more than wealth. (And not getting tricked by evil sorcerers—also a good life tip!)
💡 Lesson #3: Adventure is out there! From cave-exploring to sky-high carpet rides, Aladdin is a thrilling reminder that the best stories come from taking chances.
A tale filled with danger, magic, and one of the most lovable genies in storytelling history, Aladdin remains one of the most popular fairy tales, proving that sometimes, the best treasure isn’t found in a cave—it’s in staying true to yourself.
7. The Nutcracker
When it comes to holiday enchantment, The Nutcracker is in a league of its own. One of the most popular fairy tales, this festive classic takes readers on a whimsical adventure filled with toy soldiers, a mischievous Mouse King, and a sugar-dusted world of wonder.
On Christmas Eve, young Clara receives a Nutcracker doll—which, much to her surprise, comes to life and whisks her away on a dazzling journey. Suddenly, her living room transforms into a battlefield, sweets start dancing (literally!), and before she knows it, she’s in the sparkling Land of Sweets, ruled by the Sugar Plum Fairy.
✨ Lesson #1: Imagination makes the impossible possible. A simple toy turns into a fearless warrior, and an ordinary girl finds herself in a dreamland of magic—proving that with a little imagination, anything can happen!
✨ Lesson #2: Joy is found in giving. Clara’s kindness toward her Nutcracker is rewarded with an unforgettable adventure—a reminder that the spirit of giving brings its own kind of magic.
✨ Lesson #3: The best stories come to life when you believe in them. The Nutcracker teaches kids that sometimes, reality and imagination blur—and that’s where the real fun begins.
With its balletic beauty, festive magic, and thrilling adventure, The Nutcracker remains one of the most popular fairy tales of all time—a holiday must-read that turns any night into a Christmas Eve full of dreams, wonder, and a little extra sparkle.
8. The Snow Queen
When it comes to classic fairy tales, The Snow Queen by Hans Christian Andersen is a frosty, heartwarming, and absolutely epic adventure. Imagine a world where winter never ends, where friendship is tested by icy magic, and where one brave girl proves that true love isn’t just for fairy-tale princes—it’s the unbreakable bond between friends.
The story follows Gerda, a girl who refuses to let a little (okay, a LOT of) ice stop her from saving her best friend, Kai, who has fallen under the spell of the mysterious Snow Queen. Along the way, Gerda faces magical creatures, survives treacherous landscapes, and proves that bravery and love can thaw even the iciest heart.
❄️ Lesson #1: Friendship is stronger than fear. Gerda doesn’t wait for a prince to save the day—she sets out on her own, facing every danger head-on to rescue Kai. (Talk about a fearless best friend!).
❄️ Lesson #2: Love can break even the strongest spells. No amount of dark magic or icy storms can compete with the power of true love and loyalty.
❄️ Lesson #3: Kindness is a strength, not a weakness. Gerda’s good heart leads her to victory, reminding kids that compassion is just as powerful as courage.
A thrilling mix of winter magic, adventure, and emotional depth, The Snow Queen remains one of the most powerful classic fairy tales, teaching kids that friendship and love can conquer even the coldest of challenges.
9. The Little Prince
Some fairy tales have princes in castles, some have princes on quests—but The Little Prince? Oh, he’s from another planet entirely. 🚀💫 One of the most famous fairy tales ever written, Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s masterpiece is equal parts adventure, life lesson, and gentle reminder to grown-ups to stop being so… grown-up.
Our tiny royal leaves his asteroid-sized home and sets off on a journey across the universe, meeting a boastful king, a business-obsessed grown-up, and a fox with some serious wisdom to share. Along the way, he learns that seeing with your heart is more important than seeing with your eyes. (Deep, right?)
💛 Lesson #1: The best things in life are invisible. Love, friendship, and that warm fuzzy feeling you get when someone truly understands you? Yeah, those matter way more than crowns and riches.
🦊 Lesson #2: Friendship is a slow-cooked recipe. The wise old fox teaches us that building trust takes time—but once someone is “your fox,” they’ll always be special. (Excuse me while I go tame my dog now).
👨🚀 Lesson #3: Grown-ups totally miss the point. They worry about numbers, rules, and boring stuff, while kids see magic in everything. (Reminder: Never lose your inner child!).
More than just a bedtime story, The Little Prince is a philosophical joyride wrapped in a whimsical fairy tale package. It’s no wonder it remains one of the most famous fairy tales of all time—because no matter how old you are, you’ll always find a new lesson hidden between the stars."
10. The Little Mermaid
What’s a fairy tale without a little adventure, a little magic, and a whole lot of big decisions? In The Little Mermaid, a bold, big-dreaming mermaid risks everything for a chance at love and a life beyond the sea. But in this reimagined version, her journey isn’t about sacrifice and sorrow—it’s about finding her voice, her courage, and a happy ending that she truly deserves.
Unlike the original tale (which, let’s be honest, is a little too heart-wrenching for bedtime), this version keeps the wonder, the romance, and the magic, but with a twist—our mermaid’s story ends in triumph, not tragedy. Because sometimes, fairy tales are about learning, growing, and realizing that happily-ever-afters come in many forms.
🌊 Lesson #1: Dreams are powerful—but so is staying true to yourself. The Little Mermaid longs for adventure, but she discovers that real happiness comes from embracing who she is, not changing for someone else.
🐠 Lesson #2: Smart choices lead to happy endings. Magic contracts with mysterious sea witches? No thanks! This version shows that bravery, wisdom, and a little help from friends can turn any challenge into a victory.
💖 Lesson #3: Love should never mean losing yourself. Whether it’s love for a person, a dream, or a new adventure, the best kind of love lifts you up instead of asking you to give up everything.
With its shimmering underwater world, thrilling adventure, and a well-earned happy ending, The Little Mermaid in this version proves that fairy tales can evolve—just like the heroes within them. And in the end? Our mermaid gets to write her own story.
11. The Bremen Town Musicians
If you think boy bands have unexpected lineups, wait until you hear about The Bremen Town Musicians. One of the most underrated classic fairy tales, this laugh-out-loud adventure follows four aging animals—a donkey, a dog, a cat, and a rooster—who decide they’re not ready to retire just yet. (Because let’s be honest, rocking chairs aren’t for everyone.)
Instead of sulking about getting older and being cast aside, these four misfits form an impromptu musical group and set off for Bremen to become town musicians. (Talent questionable, confidence undeniable.) Along the way, they outsmart some rather clueless robbers, proving that courage and teamwork trump youth and strength any day.
🎶 Lesson #1: It’s never too late for a fresh start. Whether you’re a seasoned farm animal or just a kid facing a challenge, new opportunities are always around the corner!
🐾 Lesson #2: Friends make everything better. The donkey, dog, cat, and rooster could’ve given up alone—but together? They were unstoppable. (And probably terrible musicians, but that’s beside the point.)
🤣 Lesson #3: When life throws obstacles your way, make some noise! Instead of backing down, these four underdogs (under-animals?) take charge of their fate—proving that sometimes, a little chaos (and a LOT of teamwork) is the key to success.
A wild, funny, and surprisingly heartwarming tale, The Bremen Town Musicians is one of those classic fairy tales that reminds kids (and grown-ups!) that no matter where life takes you, there’s always time for reinvention, friendship, and maybe even a new career in music.
12. The Little Gold Key
Some fairy tales are about princesses in towers, some about talking animals—and then there’s The Golden Key, a lesser-known but totally magical story that proves a little curiosity can unlock a whole new world.
One of the most intriguing old fairy tales, this gem follows a curious boy who stumbles upon a mysterious key buried in the snow. But here’s the catch—what does it open? Instead of sitting around waiting for answers (boring!), he sets off to find the lock that holds the secret.
✨ Lesson #1: Curiosity leads to discovery. Instead of saying, "Oh, cool, a key" and moving on, the boy follows his instincts—because asking questions and seeking answers is how real adventure begins!
🔑 Lesson #2: Small actions can lead to BIG surprises. Whether it’s turning a key or taking the first step on a new journey, this tale reminds kids that every great discovery starts with one tiny spark of curiosity.
🗝️ Lesson #3: The unknown isn’t something to fear—it’s something to explore. The mystery of The Golden Key teaches kids that wondering, exploring, and chasing the “what ifs” in life can lead to unexpected rewards.
For parents building a fairy tales list full of adventure, mystery, and a touch of magic, The Golden Key is an absolute must-read. It’s proof that sometimes, the smallest discoveries unlock the biggest possibilities.
13. Dino The Brave Explorer
Move over, knights and dragons—this fairy tale has a dinosaur on a mission! 🦖✨ Dino the Brave Explorer isn’t just another bedtime story—it’s a thrilling quest packed with adventure, mystery, and a whole lot of dino-sized courage.
Dino is no ordinary dinosaur. He’s got a heart as big as a T-Rex and a curiosity that could outmatch any explorer. When he sets off to uncharted lands to uncover hidden treasures, he doesn’t just stumble upon gold—he discovers new friends, exciting challenges, and the kind of bravery he never knew he had.
🦕 Lesson #1: Courage isn’t about being fearless—it’s about moving forward even when you’re scared. Dino learns that stepping outside his comfort zone leads to the biggest rewards.
💡 Lesson #2: Curiosity makes the world an adventure. Whether he’s solving riddles, decoding ancient maps, or dodging lava (yikes!), Dino proves that exploring the unknown is where the real magic happens.
🌍 Lesson #3: Friendship is the best treasure of all. Sure, Dino sets out looking for gold and glory, but in the end, it’s the friends he makes along the way that turn his journey into something truly unforgettable.
A roaring good time and a must-read from any list of popular fairy tales, Dino the Brave Explorer is proof that sometimes, the biggest discoveries aren’t found on a map—they’re found within yourself.
14. Easter Egg Hunt
What’s better than chocolate bunnies and pastel-colored eggs? A story that captures all the magic of Easter and sprinkles in some valuable life lessons along the way!
"Easter Egg Hunt" by Daria Dotsuk isn’t just another holiday tale—it’s an exciting adventure packed with surprises, teamwork, and a dash of fairy-tale magic. Follow a group of eager children as they race through gardens, peek behind trees, and search high and low for hidden treasures. But the real prize isn’t just the eggs they find—it’s the lessons they learn along the way.
At its heart, this story is about cooperation, patience, and the joy of sharing. It helps kids see that working together makes every adventure more fun and rewarding, while also reinforcing the idea that kindness and generosity are just as exciting as finding the biggest Easter egg.
Perfect for springtime reading, this tale is a wonderful way to build anticipation for Easter, encourage positive behaviors, and add a touch of storytelling magic to holiday traditions. Plus, if you’re looking for the perfect gifts for book lovers to tuck into an Easter basket, we’ve got plenty of ideas to make the holiday even more special.
Ready to make Easter extra magical? Hop on over to our blog on the best Easter gifts for kids—where learning, creativity, and fun go hand in hand!
15. A Tale for Halloween
Some fairy tales have enchanted castles. Some have talking animals. And then there are the ones that glow under a full moon and come with a side of friendly frights! 👻✨
This delightfully spooky tale by Loretta Ellen Brady whisks kids into the heart of Halloween magic—where adventure meets the supernatural, and a little courage goes a long way. There are mysteries to solve, shadows that dance, and just the right amount of spooky shenanigans to make young readers giggle instead of hide under the covers.
🎃 Lesson #1: Spooky doesn’t have to be scary! This story teaches kids to embrace the unknown—because sometimes, the thing that seems scary is actually just a whole lot of fun in disguise.
🕷️ Lesson #2: A little bravery can lead to big adventures. Whether it’s facing a mysterious ghost, stepping into a shadowy forest, or trick-or-treating at that “creepy house” on the block, courage helps turn fear into excitement!
🦇 Lesson #3: Magic is everywhere—especially when you’re looking for it! Halloween is the one night a year where anything feels possible—a reminder that imagination is the real magic, no wand required.
One of the best fairy tales for adding a touch of lighthearted spookiness to Halloween traditions, this story proves that ghosts and goblins aren’t always what they seem—and that sometimes, the best memories are made in the glow of a jack-o’-lantern.
Classic Fairy Tales Like You’ve Never Seen Before—With SHAPLABOO Shadow play books!
Forget regular bedtime stories—what if you could watch classic fairy tales dance across your walls? With SHAPLABOO Shadow play books, storytime gets a serious glow-up (literally!). These interactive books use light and shadow to transform beloved classic fairy tales into mesmerizing, larger-than-life adventures.
Picture this: You open The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, shine a flashlight, and suddenly—there’s Dorothy, the Scarecrow, the Tin Man, and the Cowardly Lion, their shadows moving across the room like a real-life play. ✨ Now, that’s storybook magic at its finest!
Why are SHAPLABOO Shadow play books a game-changer for storytime?
🎭 They bring stories to life. Watching Cinderella, Aladdin, or The Little Mermaid flicker across the walls feels like stepping into the story yourself. (Way cooler than just flipping pages, right?)
🧠 They boost creativity. Kids don’t just listen—they engage, imagine, and even become storytellers themselves.
🎩 They make learning fun. Shadow play encourages early literacy, storytelling skills, and problem-solving (without kids even realizing they’re learning—sneaky, huh?).
✨ They come with shadow puppets. That’s right! Each set includes beautifully crafted puppets so kids can act out their own fairy tale twists, create new characters, and even put on a shadow theater show!
Ready to turn classic fairy tales into an unforgettable experience? Check out the full collection here: SHAPLABOO Shadow play books
The Magic of Popular Fairy Tales: Why These Stories Never Get Old
Fairy tales aren’t just stories. They’re time machines, life lessons, and little sparks of magic wrapped in once-upon-a-times. The best popular fairy tales don’t just entertain—they teach, inspire, and stick with us long after we’ve closed the book (or turned off the flashlight for SHAPLABOO’s shadow play books!).
Whether you’re curling up with a classic or watching Cinderella twirl across your bedroom wall in shadowy magic, these tales build imaginations, teach courage, and remind kids that adventure is always just a page (or a flicker of light) away.
✨ Stories are memories in the making. Reading Aladdin under a blanket fort? That’s a childhood moment they’ll never forget.
✨ Fairy tales make kids believe in the impossible. Because if a pumpkin can turn into a carriage, who’s to say they can’t do something amazing too?
✨ The best stories are meant to be shared. Whether you’re reading aloud, making silly voices, or letting kids act it out with shadow puppets, every fairy tale moment is a chance to connect, laugh, and create family traditions that last.
So go ahead—embrace the magic of popular fairy tales, pass these stories down, and watch the next generation of dreamers, adventurers, and storytellers come to life. Because every great story begins with “Once upon a time”... but it’s up to us to keep them going.
