Tonight, we’ll read the first part to “The Fairy of the Dawn,” a Romanian fairy tale by author Marie Kremnitz. The second half to this story will air in our next episode. Snoozecast first read this story back in January of 2022.

Tonight’s story features a prince who doesn’t seem at first to be destined for heroism. Unlike his brothers, who seek adventure, fortune, and battles, this prince prefers singing, laughing, and enjoying life’s simple pleasures. Yet, as the tale unfolds, his heart and courage reveal a hero in his own right.

The author of this story, Marie Kremnitz, born in Germany, later moved with her husband and children to Romania. There she became maid of honor to Queen Elisabeth of Romania, a fellow writer and romantic dreamer. The two formed a close bond, writing several books together under pen names. Kremnitz later established herself as a prolific author in her own right, often blending whimsical folklore with elegant prose.

Queen Elisabeth, known by her pen name Carmen Sylva, was an avid collector and teller of fairy tales, and her creative influence can be felt in Kremnitz’s works. Their collaboration often explored themes of inner strength, moral growth, and the transformative power of kindness—elements that are woven into “The Fairy of the Dawn”. The tale reflects not only their shared literary style but also the rich cultural traditions of Romanian folklore, which brim with enchantment and mystery.