Peter Classen has written six new fairy tales for children and adults, ranging from clever and fun to educational and contemplative. These timelessly modern tales are a bit different: they don’t necessarily start with "Once upon a time," they don’t whisper mystically, and they are neither dark nor threatening. Instead, they use clear language to show what our contemporary world, beyond technology and commerce, has to offer us that is truly valuable. They emphasize that there are more important values than securities. Who are the heroes of these cleverly illustrated tales? An adventurous gnome family, quarrelsome goblins, Kalle from the cosmos, and the greyhound Rudi, as well as brave Easter bunnies and a Santa Claus who no longer wants to be nice. Fairy tales are generally considered a mirror of the soul, which also applies to the "cruise on the river of life." For it is a journey that each of us undertakes, and the destination is ourselves. That’s why Peter Classen’s fairy tales resonate with each and every one of us.