After Ever After

It is said that a thing does not exist until we examine it, measure it. Fairy tales ask us what it means to be human, but it doesn't really answer the question. That is why we keep coming back to them, retelling them, exploring them again. Karen Nelson researched the stories in this collection in their many versions, often moving them forward in linear time or to other geographic locations, and retells them keeping their original themes and morals. Most notably, she looks at what might happen after the traditional closing of the original version; where the characters went, what changes were effected on them, and inserting the reality of life continuing beyond a "happily ever after."As Kate Burnheimer summarizes in Form Is Fairytale, Fairytale Is Form, ''We re-enter the dark woods again and again to see if we can find ourselves and emerge unscathed." The test is upon each of us and the only question that remains is when will we plunge into the darkness again?

Karen Nelson is a speaker and organizational mentor. She conducts local classes and workshops teaching faith-filled, biblically based organization strategies that help women transform CHAOS into peace. Karen began incorporating FlyLady concepts into her family’s daily life almost two decades ago, and she continues to enjoy the benefits of consistent routines and habits in all areas of life. Now a FlyLady mentor, Karen’s experience in ministry and the professional world has given her profound insight into the lives of women from various walks of life, which she uses to encourage and teach women around the world. Her passion of hope and peace for those who struggle to put their lives in order comes from her deep Christian faith. Karen and her husband live in Virginia, and are the parents of three children who have given them four grandchildren to delight in.