Hans Christian Andersen
The world is celebrating the two hundredth birthday of one of the most beloved writers in history. Revisit some of his stories for a spring treat. Share his joy of storytelling with a younger friend who may not yet have been introduced to his wonderful stories. Read on for more information about Hans Christian Andersen or skip down to the bibliography for suggested readings and reviews.
Hans Christian Andersen was born in Odense, Denmark, two hundred years ago, on April 2, 1805. His father, a cobbler, spent two years in Napoleon's army and died when Andersen was just 11. His mother battled an addiction to alcohol and died in 1832 of alcoholism. Despite the unpromising home life, Andersen was confident in his dreams of greatness. At first he thought he would achieve fame and fortune on the stage after getting a walk-on role when the Royal Theater from Copenhagen presented a production in Odense. That inspired him to look for better opportunities in Copenhagen, so when he was 14, walked there from his home in Odense. He lived in a rooming house, took singing lessons, tried out for parts on stage, and began writing plays. In his quest for success, he sought out important people. A Copenhagen philanthropist, Jonas Collins, took a 17-year-old Andersen under his wing and arranged Andersen's first formal schooling ever. During the five years of schooling, Andersen learned eagerly, met many prestigious people and traveled abroad. Five years later, his first work, a poem, was published in a newspaper and two years later his first book was published. Many of his tales (consider The Ugly Duckling) had autobiographical elements. Two hundred years later, his many stories and fairy tales continue to reflect the human condition and are still beloved by readers.
Jackie Wullschlager, literary critic and chief art correspondent for the Financial Times, has recently published Hans Christian Andersen: The Life of a Storyteller. She contributed a 30-page overview of his life to the new translation of Hans Christian Andersen Fairy Tales by Tiina Nunnally.
Contributor: Jan Barley
For more information about this world renown storyteller, click here.
Reviews
The Angel and Other Stories
Retold by Sue Stauffacher
Illustrated by Leonid Gore
The Angel and Other Stories speaks to all ages, making it a wonderful gift for ages 6 to 96. In lyrical prose, Sue Stauffacher retells ten folktales with spiritual themes. Collected from sources such as Hans Christian Anderson, Oscar Wilde, and Fyodor Dostoyevsky, the stories range from an acrobat who delights the Holy Child with his gifts to a finch learning to sing "Ave Maria." Some date back to the 14th and 15th centuries--oral tales passed from one generation to the next before finally being written down, most notably by the Brothers Grimm. Leonid Gore's illustrations add a luminous note to these graceful tales of generosity and hope. 2002, Eerdmans, $20.00, Ages 6 up. Reviewer: Mary Quattlebaum (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0802852033
The Barefoot Book of Princesses
Caitlin Matthews
Princess stories appear in many cultures, and Matthews has provided her retelling of seven of the better-known tales. For instance, the book includes "The Princess and the Pea," based on Hans Christian Andersen's version, but as noted in the sources for the stories, this is a folk story that is found all around the world. "The Mountain Princess" is a Persian tale better known to the world through the opera version, Turandot. Other tales come from Africa, Native America, and Europe. What sets these stories apart from other versions is the wonderful storytelling voice of Matthews. These are tales that parents and teachers can read aloud and ones that will delight attentive audiences. The brightly painted folk art from Whelan has a familiar look, but the images transport readers to the locale of each story and depict the unique details of setting, costumes, and faces. 1998, Barefoot, $17.95, Ages 5 to 10. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 1-901223-74-4
Christmas Fairy Tales
selected by Neil Philip
Illustrated by Isabelle Brent.
This is a lovely British import filled with many old favorite stories by Hans Christian Andersen, E.T.A. Hoffmann, and lesser known but equally involving followers of the fairy tale. The real joy of the book is in its beautiful presentation and illustrations. Working with watercolor and gold leaf within the medieval illumination tradition, Brent presents gold-edged pages and marvelous vignettes from each story. These are all set within borders of gilded, falling snowflakes. A coffee table book for kids? Yes, but also one to snuggle up with in bed on a snowy evening. 1996, Viking, $19.99, All Ages. Reviewer: Kathleen Karr (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-6708-6805-1
Classic Fairy Tales to Read Aloud
Selected by Naomi Lewis
Illustrated by Jo Worth
"Fairy tales grew out of want and need, hope and dream, desire to defeat the impossible," Naomi Lewis tells readers in the introduction to her compilation of fairy tales. She also states that each tale does defeat the impossible by giving the reader the gift of imagination. So Lewis makes her case for acquainting children with classic fairy tales. In this book readers will find selections by Hans Christian Andersen (The Princess and The Pea), the Brothers Grimm (Rapunzel), and Charles Perrault (Little Red Riding Hood), and from the Arabian Nights (The Anklet). In the contents section each tale is listed with the number of minutes that it will take to read (from two to thirty). The tales yield secrets, some dark and some wonderful. Not all children warm to fairy tales, or will enjoy every one included, but I do think Lewis is right--children should be introduced to the genre. And this book, which provides some introductory information on each tale included, is a good place to start. 1998, Kingfisher, $7.95, Ages 7 to 12. Reviewer: Jeanne K. Pettenati, J.D. (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-7534-5164-6
Denmark
Patricia J. Murphy
Similar in format and content to the "Countries" series by ABDO Publishing, this offering in Bridgestone's "Countries of the World" series is also targeted to early elementary grades. Fast facts that recap the country name, capital, size, flag, currency, and more are found on the opening pages. The map shows the country and its location in the world (not found in the ABDO series). From these basic facts, kids then learn about the land, major cities, home life and the very interesting approach to education. The foods look inviting, but meals are different as the real emphasis is placed on dinner, which is enjoyed with family and friends. Danish holidays and famous individuals such as Hans Christian Andersen, are mentioned. The book offers an activity (preparing open-face sandwiches), a bit of Danish vocabulary, a short glossary and references that include books, Web sites and places to write for more information. There is an index. 2003, Bridgestone/Capstone Press, $18.60, Ages 7 to 10. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-7368-1371-3
For Sure! For Sure!: A tale
Hans Christian Andersen
Illustrated by Stefan Czernecki
Translation by Mus White
In this hilarious moral fairy tale from Hans Christian Andersen, the gossip travels faster than the feathers can fall, and the story gets blown way out of proportion. It all begins with a simple over-heard quote from a very respectable hen. "The more I pluck myself, the more gorgeous I look," she says, referring to one little feather that has fallen out. From there, the exaggerations grow larger and larger until one feather has turned into five bald chickens. Mocking society's tendency to believe the worst and to gossip about it far and wide, Andersen's story still feels fresh and amusing today. Czernecki's use of large blocks of color and strikingly simple illustrations soften the occasional harshness of Andersen's story, giving it instead a fun and friendly feel. The bright primary colors, combined with bold lines around simple shapes, complement the story perfectly by emphasizing the comic aspect of how small things can take on epic proportions, for sure, for sure! 2004, August House Publishers, $16.95, Ages 5 to 8. Reviewer: Laura Ruttig (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0874837421
The Dinosaur's New Clothes
Diane Goode
Caldecott Honor illustrator Goode uses dinosaurs to retell the classic Hans Christian Andersen tale of the emperor too vain to admit that his new clothes are invisible. Her watercolored setting is the palace and grounds of Versailles remembered from her childhood summers spent in France. She recalls with tongue-in-cheek the mirrored walls, high ceilings, paintings, and extravagant moldings of the palace. The decorative touches are now emblazoned with dinosaurs of every description. Goode also has fun with her Louis XIV costumes and wigs, creating bumptious, period-flavored--and physically correct--dinosaurs. The result is all in good fun. One only regrets that the emperor's scaly, green naked derričre hasn't quite the panache of an equally naked human. 1999, Blue Sky Press/Scholastic, $15.95, Ages 2 to 7. Reviewer: Kathleen Karr (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-590-38360-4
The Emperor's New Clothes
Marcus Sedgwick
Illustrated by Alison Jay
This retelling of the Andersen classic joins innumerable others. It distinguishes itself from the others first by its jaunty rhymes printed in varying typefaces and second by its unusual illustrations. The emperor here is a vain and haughty lion. The crafty rascal tailors who promise to weave "clothes so grand" are appropriately weasels. The emperor's attendants, a tortoise and a hare, perhaps a sly Aesop allusion, reluctantly following their master's orders, find themselves lying about the "wonderful" clothes "that weren't there." It takes a small frog to call out the truth. The fairytale kingdom is depicted on the jacket complete with hilltop castle, regal ruler, citizens, and a herald with trumpet, all anthropomorphic animals in period dress. The pictures are made with alkyd paint, then covered with a crackle-glaze varnish to simulate age, some undefined but refined Middle Age perhaps. The scenes are like theater sets, stylized depictions in sophisticated page layouts, all tidy and loaded with anticipation until the frog's call and comic relief. 2004, Chronicle Books, $16.95, Ages 4 to 8. Reviewer: Ken Marantz and Sylvia Marantz (Children's Literature).
Although he has many fine clothes, the emperor wants something new. None of the things he already has seems quite grand enough to him. The emperor wants something that will guarantee that his many subjects are impressed by him. Quickly, tailors arrive at the palace. They promise an incredible, magical outfit that will enable him to determine the wisdom or foolishness of those who see it. The pleased king overcomes the objections of his treasurer and chamberlain. He arranges for a procession to take place once the suit is complete. Days pass. Finally, the tailors say they are done. They dress the emperor, who is too embarrassed to admit he cannot see the clothes. The parade begins. It is true that his subjects gain a new perspective of their vain leader! Marcus Sedgwick's nimble, rhyming account of this beloved, oft-told tale brings new life to an old story. Alison Jay's distinctive crackle-glaze illustrations give the pages a warm glow. The animals chosen to represent the characters--a magnificent lion as the emperor, sneaky weasels as the tailors, and tortoise and hare as the emperor's counselors--add the visual humor to the familiar tale. 2004, Chronicle, $16.95, Ages 4 to 8. Reviewer: Heidi Hauser Green (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-8118-4569-9
The Emperor's New Clothes
H.C. Andersen
Retold and illustrated by S.T. Mendelson
Mendelson retells and illustrates the classic Hans Christian Andersen tale with splendor and humor. Imagine a potbellied gorilla emperor complete with a jeweled turban, who exposes his bare bottom to the entire court while admiring his "new clothes" in the mirror. "Emperor" pokes fun at vanity and foolishness with updated storytelling kids and adults will enjoy. Of course, the emperor is transformed by his misadventure--the final illustration finds him lounging by a pool in jeans and a T-shirt. Mendelson artfully selects animals for the Byzantine styled characters--lovely seals for the harem, a Cabinet of chameleons, and, of course, a rat for a tailor. 1992, Stewart Tabori & Chang, $7.50, Ages 5 to 8. Reviewer: Sonya Goldman (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 1-5567-0232-9
The Emperor's New Clothes
Hans Christian Andersen
Designed & illustrated by Virginia Lee Burton
The classic story of hubris, this version first published in 1949 and illustrated by Virginia Lee Burton. The arrogant emperor is duped by two con men, "clever robbers," who capitalize on the emperor's obsession with fashion. They promise to weave the most beautiful garments of magic cloth--cloth visible only to the intelligent; to those who are fit for their station in life. One after another of the emperor's assistants visit the looms to check the progress and claim to see the fabric, so as not to be thought stupid, or unfit for their jobs. Finally, it is the emperor's turn, and he is fitted into his new suit, the whole ensemble "as light as a cobweb." The illustrations throughout are graceful and light, reflecting the weight of this magic cloth. Most amusing are the pictures showing the two "tailors" weaving away at their empty looms. Of course, as the emperor parades through the town in his new suit, it is the innocent child, unafraid, unknowing of the significance of "seeing" the magic cloth, which shouts out, "But he has nothing on at all!" A timeless tale of truth-telling, one young readers will always enjoy with a laugh at the bare-bottomed emperor. 2004 (orig. 1977), Houghton Mifflin, $16.00, Ages 4 to 8. Reviewer: Mary Loftus (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-395-18415-0
The Emperor's New Clothes
Hans Christian Andersen
Illustrated by Dorothee Duntze
Stunning color illustrations of this classic tale of an Emperor who cared only about being finely dressed. He spent all his money on new clothes and would parade through the city. Tricksters, claim to make a marvelous cloth that was invisible to those unfit for their jobs or shockingly stupid. The entire city waited for the parade. Children will love the surprise ending. It is an oversized book with the colored pencil and wash illustrations delicately rendered in pale warm shades. 1997 (orig. 1986), North-South Books, $16.00 and $7.95, Ages 3 up. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 1-55858-036-0
The Emperor's New Clothes
Hans Christian Andersen
Adapted and illustrated by Eve Tharlet
Translated by Rosemary Lanning
Light watercolor illustrations and poetic phrasing combine to make this modern account of a familiar tale a success. A self-important emperor falls victim to a pair of charlatans who prey upon his vanity to sell him beautiful clothes, only visible to smart people. Of course, the prideful elders of the town accept the premise that seeing the cloth means smart, and not seeing the cloth means stupid. No one will admit to not seeing the (non-existent) fabric. The tricksters leave town even as the emperor strides down the street in a parade of celebration. Lively, bright colors and expressive features will make this version a favorite. 2000, North-South Books, $15.95, Ages 4 to 8. Reviewer: Heidi Hauser Green (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-7358-1340-X
The Emperor's New Clothes
Hans Christian Andersen
Retold by Riki Levinson
Illustrated by Robert Byrd
What a lovely joke for children to enjoy! Hans Christian Anderson's timeless wit is brought to life with arrogant style. The impressive choice of language is supported perfectly by the vibrant, intricately detailed pictures. The pompous Emperor is a lion of great proportions and the delightful scoundrels who weave the magic cloth are gleeful foxes who steal the show along with most of the kingdom's coffers. The palace and the town provide elaborate and memorable settings. 1991, Dutton Children's Books, $14.95, Ages 3 to 7. Reviewer: Deborah Zink Roffino (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-5254-4611-7
The Emperor's New Clothes
Hans Christian Andersen
Retold by Christine San Josâe
Illustrated by Anastassija Archipowa
Stunning illustrations perfectly capture this magnificent retelling of Hans Christian Andersen's popular tale about the vain Emperor who cared for nothing in the world except his wardrobe. When two swindling weavers enter the city and claim they can weave the most wonderful, glorious cloth that only appears invisible to foolish people, the Emperor gives them a bag of gold and commands them to start weaving immediately. Impatient to see how the cloth is coming along, the Emperor dispatches his Prime Minister, then his Master of the Imperial Wardrobe, to inspect the exquisite cloth. When both men fail to see the cloth and fear looking foolish, they pretend to see the fabric and return to the Emperor with detailed stories about the cloth's hues and designs. After a few more bags of gold, the weavers present their creation to the Emperor, who wears his invisible garments to a special procession where a young boy states the obvious and makes the Emperor come to a painful realization. Young fairy tale fans will laugh out loud when they read this rollicking version of Andersen's classic story. 1998, Boyds Mills Press, $15.95, Ages 5 to 8. Reviewer: Debra Briatico (Children's Literature).
ISBN:1-56397-699-4
The Emperor's New Clothes: A Tale Set in China
Demi
The classic Andersen tale of an emperor too proud to admit the obvious is set by Demi in old China. She has chosen to include as much of the culture as she can, with the elements explained in an author's note. Her text takes us through the seasons as the wily charlatans claim to be weaving magic clothes that only the clever can see. Of course the emperor's chancellor and minister "see" the wonder being woven. In the end, the emperor here never admits his folly. Demi tells the visual story in her typical style--very finely wrought figures against an almost blank background. Lots of red and gold with embroidered and brocade fabrics add a proper regal elegance. The page design includes a clever use of foldout pages, showing the emperor walking stiffly in a landscape with children, animals, his distant palace, and a sky full of exotic birds, all suggesting a classic scroll--a brilliant depiction. 2000, Margaret K. McElderry Books/Simon & Schuster, $19.95, Ages 7 to 10. Reviewers: Ken Marantz and Sylvia Marantz (Children's Literature).
In a version that makes the well-known Hans Christian Andersen tale truly her own, Demi and her editors and designers have created a beautiful piece of book making. Packed with symbolism, the detailed, gold-trimmed paintings of clothing and elements of Chinese life provide much to look at and much to ponder. Following the seasons of the year, the story literally unfolds as double-folded pages are opened at key points, when the Imperial Minister, then the High Chancellor, and finally the Emperor himself all look upon the invisible clothing. Finally, as the Emperor steps out in public, two pages open out, creating a veritable procession of foolishness across a four-panel spread. In an author's note Demi explains some of the symbols she has used, and the meaning of the activities in the background. In addition, she uses the ingenious device of a screen in the tailor and weaver's workroom to provide pictures and captions explaining the meaning of many of the objects that are found in the decorations and clothing throughout the book. As always, Demi's precise drawings and rich colors, here painted over what appears to be textured cloth, give the book a jewel-like quality. 2000, Margaret K. McElderry/Simon & Schuster, $19.95, Ages 7 to 10. Reviewer: Linnea Hendrickson (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-689-83068-8
Fairy Tales
Hans Christian Andersen
Translated by Tiina Nunnally
Edited and Introduced by Jackie Wullschlager
To mark the 200th anniversary of Hans Christian Andersen's birth, Viking presents this significant newly-translated edition of 30 of his beloved fairy tales. It deserves a place on the bookshelf of all fairy tale lovers. Translation is a highly subjective art and many earlier translations failed to capture the storyteller's vivid style and in a few cases even altered his meaning. Ms. Nunnally, the award-winning translator, who has translated and edited many books written in Danish, strove to capture Andersen's own style, complete with puns, jokes, and a conversational style. Before Andersen published his tales, he told them aloud many times and he wrote in the same story-telling language in which he spoke. Many translators disregarded Andersen's style and failed to adequately convey some of the puns and humor from the originals. One small change that points out the difference a word can make is the tale generally known as The Princess and the Pea. Ms. Nunnally translates it to The Princess On the Pea, which is closer to Andersen's original intention. Ms. Nunnally describes her role in a Translator's Note, which enhances the serious reader's appreciation and can be skipped by those who want to dive into the tales themselves. Ms. Wullschlager, an Andersen biographer, introduces the book with a more than 40-page insightful biography of Andersen. She also provides a detailed chronology of his life and end notes for each story. Illustrations for the book are reproductions of detailed paper cutouts that Andersen delighted in creating. Beautiful typography adds to the reading pleasure. 2004, Viking, Ages 8 to Adult, $27.95. Reviewer: Janet Crane Barley
ISBN: 0-670-03377-4
The Fir Tree
Hans Christian Andersen
Illustrated by Marcel Imsand, Rita Marshall
The little fir tree wants to be bigger, it wants to be a tall ship's mast or someone's Christmas tree. Finally it gets its wish and becomes a Christmas tree, only to be discarded, abused and eventually burned to ashes. Always it remembers its happier days in the forest and its one glorious night as a Christmas tree. The moral is: be happy with what you have. 1990 (orig. 1983), Creative Ed./HarperCollins/North-South, $13.95, $6.95 and $14.95, Ages 6 to 8. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-8719-1949-4
Hans Christian Andersen's The Snow Queen : A Fairy Tale Told In Seven Stories
Retold by Ken Setterington
Art by Nelly and Ernst Hofer
Subtitled "A Fairy Tale in Seven Stories," this book recounts the friendship of Kay and Gerda, who live in adjoining houses bridged by roses planted in window boxes. Kay falls into the clutches of the Snow Queen, and Gerda undergoes many adventures during her quest to win Kay back. This retelling of the tale is briefer than some, in a more compact format, and does not lose any essential elements. The star of the book, however, is the artwork. The illustrators have used the German folkart techniques of scherenschnitte, which are extremely detailed silhouettes cut by hand from black paper. Andersen himself adorned his tales with fantastic paper creations, so the choice of this art form is true to the original spirit of the story. To contrast the Snow Queen's chilly realm with the joyful village Kay has left behind, the silhouettes for those scenes are done in the negative--the background is black with icy white cutouts. The only thing lost with this choice of artwork is the blooming red of the roses. 2000, Tundra Books, $16.95, Ages 4 up. Reviewer: Dr. Judy Rowen (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-8877-6497-5
The Happy Prince: From the Fairy Tale
Hans Christian Andersen
Illustrated by Jane Ray
Jane Ray's beautiful illustrations bring to life the story of a statue known as the Happy Prince. He is a most elegant figure, bathed in fine gold from head to toe, seeing through sapphire eyes and carrying a ruby on his sword. His wealth brings him little comfort because he is, after all, only a statute and cannot help the people of the city who are so unhappy. But the Happy Prince meets the gentle, caring Swallow and together they make a difference in the lives of others less fortunate. With brilliant colors in the folk art tradition, Ray retells a story of friendship and compassion suitable for readers and listeners of all ages. 1994, Dutton, $15.99. Ages 6 up. Review: Pat Simon (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-5254-5367-9
The Little Match Girl
Hans Christian Andersen
Retold by Christine San Josâl
Illustrated by Kestutis Kasparavicius
In this saddest of all Christmas-season stories, a desperately poor little girl freezes to death in the streets on New Year's Eve, after first seeing beautiful visions of others' holiday cheer, and of her beloved dead grandmother, as she lights her unsold matches in a hopeless attempt to warm herself. Andersen's classic, heartbreaking story is here retold simply and gracefully, though it is unclear why a retelling is needed of the already simple and graceful language of the very brief original. The large watercolor illustrations by Lithuanian illustrator Kasparavicius recreate a nineteenth-century European village on a snowy December evening, the little match girl forlorn and neglected as the prosperous burghers bustle by. Her visions are rendered in wonderful detail, especially the glowing Christmas tree; when she finally joins her grandmother, Heaven appears delightfully littered with fruit, teakettles, balls of yarn, and other symbols of comfort and cheer. But Grandmother herself seems a stern and forbidding figure, rather than "clear, gleaming, gentle, full of love." 2002, Boyds Mill, $15.95, All Ages . Reviewer: Claudia Mills, Ph.D. (Children's Literature).
ISBN:1-59078-000-0
The Little Match Girl
Hans Christian Andersen
Adapted and illustrated by Jerry Pinkney
Andersen's classic holiday tale is set here in the early twentieth century. It is a sad story, but one touched with redeeming hope, as the poor, frozen child finally finds joy and glory with her grandmother in heaven. Having done his research, Pinkney gives us a turn-of-the-century metropolis complete with holiday crowds, street traffic, building facades, and a rosy-cheeked, flesh-and-blood young girl on the cover, sitting still as the snow is falling around her. The scenes are presented like stage sets, fully realized in large, double-page watercolors loaded with the details that evoke the historic setting. The artist's vision turns what might have been a morbid sociological statistic into a spiritually uplifting story as we see the grandmother carrying the girl into the yellow brightness. 1999, Phyllis Fogelman Books/Penguin Putnam Books for Young Readers, $16.99, Ages 5 up. Reviewers: Ken Marantz and Sylvia Marantz (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-8037-2314-8
The Little Mermaid
Based upon the story by Hans Christian Andersen
Illustrated by Francesca Salucci
The classic tale of the young mermaid who sacrifices all for the love of a young prince has been adapted for younger readers. Yes, the mermaid goes against the advice of her family and turns to an evil witch who helps her become human. But there is a price--she loses her voice. The prince considers her a fine companion but doesn't realize how much she loves him. When he is sent off to marry, the mermaid decides that she cannot try and come between the prince and his new bride but that she will once again return to the sea. She is no longer a mermaid but a beautiful spray of sea. This is a sad, but not terribly depressing or frightening, version for young readers. The illustrations have some foil elements and the watercolors are filled with the blues and greens of the sea much like those of the Rainbow Fish series by Pfister. 2002, McGraw-Hill Children's Publishing, $12.95, Ages 4 to 7. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 1-5884-5477-0
The Little Mermaid
Hans Christian Andersen
Illustrated by Lisbeth Zwerger
Until Disney got ahold of the story, countless generations were enthralled by Hans Christian Anderson's classic tale of the little mermaid. Now today's children have a chance to read the original tale accompanied by Zwerger's enchanting illustrations. The little mermaid has a privileged life in her father's palace under the sea, but she yearns for life above the water. After saving the life of a human prince, she is determined to find a way to live on the surface. She sacrifices her voice to the sea witch, only to be abandoned by the prince when he finds true love. The mermaid has one chance to live: by killing the prince. She refuses and dies, but is granted the chance to earn an immortal soul. Even if you already own a copy of this timeless classic, Zwerger's version is still worth buying. Her misty illustrations make what is (for today's children) a rather advanced text much more intriguing. On most pages, a sentence that describes the illustration is highlighted in a different color. If you know a child who has only ever known the Disney version, give them this book at once! 2004, Penguin, $15.99, Ages 5 up. Reviewer: Amie Rose Rotruck (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-698-40001-1
The Little Mermaid
Hans Christian Andersen
Adapted and illustrated by Rachel Isadora
This adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen's classic fairy tale comes alive. The magical, imaginative illustrations set the tone of this story about a little mermaid's desire to have a soul. The gentle pastel illustrations take readers to the beautiful sea kingdom where the princess lives. Isadora offers a well-crafted adaptation that is intrinsically woven with her rich illustrations. This would be a welcome addition to any collection, and one that ranks comparably to others of superb quality. 1998, Putnam, $15.99, Ages 4 to 8. Emily Ferren (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-399-22813-6
The Little Mermaid
Hans Christian Andersen
Adapted by Susan Blackaby
Illustrated by Charlene Delage
In this retelling of Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tale, a beautiful mermaid falls in love with a handsome prince and saves his life. He mistakenly thinks that the girl he spies upon awakening has been his rescuer. The mermaid decides that she wants to become human so that she can win his love, but she must sacrifice her voice in order to become human. While the prince seems to like her, he is betrothed and weds the girls who saved him. The mermaid has a chance to save herself by killing the prince but rather than do that deed she casts herself into the sea. Instead of perishing, she has a second chance to retain her human soul. This is not a simple story. Even it this retelling, I am not sure that it will be meaningful to the age of reader it is targeted to. The story, of course, is widely known. This summer I even visited the Little Mermaid on her rock in the harbor of Copenhagen, where a throng of kids were doing the same. The story must have resonated with them. The watercolor artwork is loose and since much of the setting is of water, it is filled with lots of blues and greens. Part of the "Read-it! Readers" series which come in four color-coded levels. Green, which is the level for this one, is the most complex. There is an opening note to parents and caregivers that explains the series structure and some tips for using the book. 2004, Picture Window Books, $18.60, Ages 5 to 7. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 1-4048-0221-5
The Little Mermaid
Hans Christian Andersen
This pretty little book contains a traditional rendition of Andersen's tale. In the original story, the little mermaid wants to marry the prince to gain an immortal soul. When the little mermaid trades her voice for legs, the prince befriends her but marries someone else. The ending isn't as happy as the Disney version, but it is certainly nobler and thought provoking. Feminist readers may wince at language such as ". . . but everyone knows you have to suffer if you want to look nice . . ." and at the little mermaid's need for the prince's love to earn her immortal soul, but they should read on. In the end, the little mermaid is her own heroine, both saving the prince and winning the opportunity to earn a soul by herself. The language stays true to the oral origins of Andersen's work resulting in a great tale but challenging and sometimes archaic syntax and vocabulary. Even experienced young readers may need a little help with words such as sulphur, unfurled, and tempestuous. While sophisticated word choices and nearly fifty pages of text may discourage younger readers from reading it alone, this story truly shines when read aloud. Illustrations were done by a variety of Disney artists during the early conceptual phases of their production of The Little Mermaid and provide a fascinating glimpse at other ways Ariel and her story might have been depicted by Disney. 1997, Hyperion Books for Children, $11.95, Ages 6 to 12. Reviewer: Eileen Hanning (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-7868-0383-5
The Little Mermaid: La Sirenita
Adaptation by Oriol Izquierdo
Illustrated by Max
Izquierdo preserves Hans Christian Andersen's melancholy tale of unrequited love with all of its frightfulness and sacrifice. The little mermaid loses her voice, tail, and life because of a prince whom she rescued on her first trip above water. Though her life is a tragic one, only redeemed by her flight to the Realm of the Air upon death, her character is not well developed. Izquierdo, perhaps pressured by the confines of length, focuses too much on conveying the original plot of The Little Mermaid and loses sight of her struggle as an individual. Max's illustrations, though fantastical and in bold comic-book form, do not pick up all the slack of characterization. Though this version has some slight faults, it is a beautiful production. The translation is sound and the illustrations are exciting. Max utilizes the moving compositions of advertising and film to create a work of tremendous visual appeal. Readers are sure to love the seascapes, and story, because it is so faithful to the original. The book's greatest strength is in Max's engaging illustrations, and is worth reading simply to enjoy them. However, it is also an updated version of a classic fairy tale, fit for any class writing its own revised fairy tales. 2003 (orig. 1999), Chronicle Books, $13.95, Ages 3 to 8. Reviewer: Verónica Betancourt (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-8118-3910-9
The New Oxford Treasury of Children's Poems
Compiled by Michael Harrison and Christopher Stuart-Clark
This collection is made up of a wide and varied selection of poems from today and yesterday. Many adults will be able to locate some of their favorite poems from their own growing up years as well as discover some exciting new poems that will become classics for the children of today. The colorful, detailed illustrations are very inviting. Specific poems are easy to find as they are indexed by author, first line, and title. This collection is intended to be a companion volume to The Oxford Treasury of Children's Poems. 1997, Oxford University Press, $25.00 and $15.95, Ages 5 up. Reviewer: Pat Metz (Children's Literature).
The authors have gathered in this treasury some of the children's stories that have been overlooked for too long. Outstanding authors such as Joan Aiken, Arnold Lobel, Sid Fleischman and Mary Norton have stories included in this text. Readers will learn about Hans Christian Andersen's soldier who encounters a witch that leads him to a tinderbox filled with gold; Kipling's story of the rhinoceros and his baggy skin; Oscar Wilde's story of the giant who refused to share his garden with the children; and George Browne's tale of the encounter between Brer Rabbit and Brer Fox at the tar pit. This is an excellent addition for teacher education programs focusing on classic children's literature. It is a valuable addition to all children's collections, whether at home or school. Classroom teachers wishing to teach genre will find this an excellent read-aloud collection of short stories. Twenty -six stories are included in this volume. 1994, Oxford University Press, $25.00 and $12.95, Ages 8 to 14. Reviewer: Joyce Rice (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-19-276137-4
The Nightingale
Hans Christian Andersen
Retold by Stephen Mitchell
Illustrated by Bagram Ibatoulline
Andersen's tale has certainly been retold and illustrated a few times. In this version the setting is that of the original story--China. The very wealthy Emperor lives in a marvelous palace and his gardens are equally wondrous. The nightingale lives in a nearby forest and her song is so lovely that even the fisherman stop to listen. The Emperor was proud of all of his possessions and when he heard of the nightingale he wanted it and he wanted it to appear in his court immediately. The gentlemen of the court were in a dither and finally a little kitchen made told them that she knew of the nightingale and its whereabouts. Invited to the court, the nightingale accepted and did sing for the Emperor and he was moved to tears. Then she was a captive of the court until the king received a mechanical bird, beautiful to look at but one that could only sing one song. It became quite popular and the kings favorite, but as many mechanical things do it broke down. The king seemed on the verge of death until the nightingale who had been banished from the court upon hearing of his illness came to offer comfort and indeed she managed to chase death away. By doing so, she gained her freedom and a promise from the king that he would listen his little bird and be a just and compassionate ruler. In turn, the nightingale would come back and sing for him to fill his heart with joy. The beautiful painting of the Chinese court fill the pages of this book. Some look like scrolls others are in the form of panels such as those that might appear on painted screens or wall hangings. It is a beautiful presentation and beautifully retold. It would be a great experience for kids to compare this version to the one by Jerry Pinkney to see how an artist and reteller can keep the same basic story but present it in such different ways. 2002, Candlewick Press, $17.99, Ages 5 up. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-7636-1521-8
The Pea Blossom
Retold and illustrated by Amy Lowry Poole
Poole has retold Hans Christian Andersen's tale, setting it "once upon a time" in Beijing, where she has lived and worked. The subject of the story is the fifth and smallest pea in a ripening pod. The other peas feel that they will do great things, but the littlest one says only "I shall go wherever it is that I am meant to." When they are finally taken out of the pod and shot by a boy through his peashooter, the first pea goes not up to the sun, as he wished, but into the mouth of a pigeon. The second is swallowed by a frog. The third and fourth do indeed get to join the emperor, but in his dinner. The small pea lands on the windowsill of a poor woman whose daughter is very ill. There he waits through the winter. In the spring, with the growth of a vine from the pea, so grows the health of the girl. The pea is content with what was surely meant to happen. Poole's sensitive watercolors on off-white rice paper, reflecting delicate Oriental paintings, contain just enough local details to set the stage, combined
with attentive renderings of the peas, several animals, and the simplest of touching portraits of the girl and her anxious mother. The final page depiction of the flowering pea plant implies its power to produce the miraculous recovery. The faces on the peas are an amusing touch. The author's note describes her relation to the Andersen tale and some background for the Chinese connection. 2005, Holiday House, Ages 4 to 8,
$16.95.
Reviewers: Ken Marantz and Sylvia Marantz
ISBN: 0-8234-1864-2
The Perfect Wizard: Hans Christian Andersen
Jane Yolen
Illustrated by Dennis Nolan
The life of the author of the classic tales that have become part of childhood is retold with reference to possible sources for his stories. The pages also house appropriate quotations from his works. His difficult childhood experiences influence his writings; he himself is an "ugly duckling." At fourteen he goes from his small town to Copenhagen, hoping to perform in the theater there. He also begins to write. After suffering in poverty, Andersen finally gets a chance at school and university and becomes successful and famous. Yolen's episodic narrative based on details of his life is printed on one page facing a full-page illustration visualizing the actions. Both pages are framed with a thin gold line which creates a formal appearance. Each text page also includes an oval-shaped vignette and the accompanying excerpt relating to the text. Nolan's subtle, naturalistic, textured colored pencil illustrations with their modulated forms supply portraits of the characters as well as local settings for an informative, respectful introduction to the great writer's life. Yolen adds notes on the translations used in her retellings along with her bibliography. 2004, Dutton Children's Books/ Penguin Young Readers Group, Ages 5 to 9, $16.99. Reviewers: Ken Marantz and Sylvia Marantz
ISBN: 0-525-46955-9
The Princess and the Pea
Hans Christian Andersen
Adapted by Susan Blackaby
Illustrated by Charlene DeLage
In this retelling of Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tale, a young prince is of marriageable age, but he wants to marry a "real princess." He meets many brides to be, but none seem to be the right one for him. Then one stormy night a bedraggled young lady arrives at the castle gate and she claims to be a princess. The queen decides that she is going to put her to the test and she puts a pea under a pile of mattresses. In the morning, the princess reports that she couldn't sleep a wink because there was something hard as a rock in her bed and so it is determined that she is indeed a real princess. The couple is wed, and the pea is placed on a purple cushion for all to see. The retelling is adequate, the artwork is more interesting than the text, but together they make a book that young reader will enjoy. Of course, caregivers may need to come up with a reason why only a real princess could feel that pea beneath twenty mattresses. Part of the "Read-it! Readers" series which come in four color-coded levels. Green, which is the level for this one, is the most complex. There is an opening note to parents and caregivers that explains the series structure and some tips for using the book. 2004, Picture Window Books, $18.60, Ages 5 to 7. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 1-4048-0223-1
The Princess and the Pea: A Fairy Tale
Hans Christian Andersen
Illustrated by Camille Semelet
As it happens so often in "once upon a times," an eligible, young prince is looking for a bride. He searches the world over, but can't find a suitable mate. Then, one dark and stormy night, a beautiful young maiden finds her way to his castle. She says she's a real princess, but the queen doubts her claim. So the pretender is given the "real princess test." The queen puts a dried pea in her bed then covers it with twenty quilts stacked atop twenty mattresses. When the maiden arises the next morning weary and bruised from a torturous night's sleep, she's declared a true princess by the royal family. "Who but a princess could be so sensitive?" Eight pictures from the story appear on the last two pages. They're all mixed up and the reader is asked to put them back in the right order. One of "The Little Pebbles Series," this small square book is kid-sized. The whimsical illustrations will delight young readers. 1999, Abbeville Press, $6.95. Ages 4 to 8. Reviewer: Ellen R. Braaf (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-7892-0515-7
The Red Shoes
Retold and illustrated by Barbara Bazilian
As is true of many Hans Christian Andersen stories, there is a dark edge to this tale. Karen longs for a pair of red shoes she spies in town, and hoards her pennies. Soon, her simple pleasures are forgotten, consumed by her fantasies about the fabulous shoes. Finally, she wears them to a great ball and learns that the shoes have truly come to control her as they had controlled her thoughts. Dancing endlessly, she endures the elements and another encounter with the malevolent shoemaker who fashioned the shoes. Will the spell be broken? Detailed illustrations convey Karen's descent into fantasy and deepening distress. 1997, Whispering Coyote Press, $15.95, Ages 6 to 10. Reviewer: Dr. Judy Rowen (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 1-8790-8556-9
The Steadfast Tin Soldier
Hans Christian Andersen
Illustrated by Fred Marcellino
Retold by Tor Seidler
Marcellino beautifully illustrates this tale of the brave tin soldier who falls in love with a paper ballerina. The soldier survives an incredible adventure only to be tossed in to the fire when he returns home. As he began to melt, the paper ballerina who he loves so desperately flies across room and joins him in the blaze. All that remained was a lump of tin in the shape of a heart and a burned spangle from the ballerina. The book was selected as one of the Ten Best Picture Books of the Year by the New York Times and one of the best by Booklist. 1997 (orig. 1992), HarperCollins, $15.00, $14.89 and $5.95. Ages 6 up. Review: Marilyn Courtot (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-06-205000-1
Tales, Then and Now: More Folktales As Literary Fictions for Young Adults
Anna E. Altmann, Gail de Vos
In this companion book to their earlier work, New Tales for Old: Folktales as Literary Fiction for Young Adults (Libraries Unlimited, 1999/VOYA October 2000), the authors extend their study of contemporary reworkings of classic folk and fairy tales appropriate for a teenage audience. Included are retellings of Beauty and the Beast, Jack and the Beanstalk, Tam Lin, Thomas the Rhymer, and five tales by Hans Christian Andersen, including The Snow Queen, The Little Mermaid, and The Wild Swans. Using the same format as in their previous work, the authors provide a history and critical interpretations for each tale with references; tale types and motifs; and annotated lists of reworkings in different genres and formats including short stories, picture books, graphic novels, films, and television programs. A section called Classroom Extensions uses themes, quotes from critical commentaries of scholars, and Web sites as resources for suggesting discussions for each tale. The authors also include updated annotated lists of reworkings of tales included in the previous work. Altmann and de Vos's careful research is evident, for example, in their treatment of Jack stories, where they disentangle the different stories of Jack and the Beanstalk and Jack the Giant Killer. The chapter on the ballads of Tam Lin and Thomas the Rhymer is an exemplar of how the authors' extensive annotations of scholarly books, articles, and theses provide detailed information and different critical perspectives on the ballads and provide information on Scottish ballads in general. The chapter on Andersen's The Little Mermaid includes tables of comparison between Andersen's literary tale and Disney's film version and suggestions for discussion of the Disney version based on feminist criticism. This scholarly and accessible work is an exceedingly useful resource for young adult librarians and school library media specialists, for storytellers, and for teachers introducing the study of fairy tales into the classroom. It is recommended for all those interested in the study and research of fairy tales, including students from graduate to junior high and high school level. Index. Source Notes. Further Reading. Appendix. 2001, Libraries Unlimited, 296p, $37.50 pb. Ages 11 to Adult. Reviewer: Hilary Crew (VOYA, June 2002 (Vol. 25, No. 2)).
ISBN: 1563088312
Three Royal Tales
Retold by Marilyn Helmer
Illustrations by Dianna Bonder
From Canada comes this addition to the "Once-Upon-A-Time" series, each volume containing three stories loosely related by theme, in this case, royal personages. Although all three are billed as traditional tales, children should be aware that only The Frog Prince is a folk tale; The Princess and the Pea and The Emperor's New Clothes are literary fairy tales written by Hans Christian Andersen. The text of The Frog Prince follows the Grimms' version till near the end when it's sanitized to make the Princess look kinder than she is and to remove any hint of sexuality. While most traditional tales change in the retelling, it's questionable practice to tinker with the words of an author, especially without giving him any credit. Still, these simplified Andersen stories are probably more accessible to younger listeners, although they will need to be read to all but the most accomplished readers. At least, the tales remain true to the author's intentions, except for the end of The Emperor's New Clothes, which misses the emperor's heroic determination to maintain his dignity. Illustrations (gouache, watercolor, and pencil) are consistent throughout, offering chubby people in a mishmash of period costume--mostly balloon-like garments and odd, padded turbans--though colors are attractive and the faces, amusing. Teachers and parents would do well to seek out other versions of the stories for comparison, not forgetting illustrations like Binette Schroeder's magical, cinematic paintings for The Frog Prince and Angela Barrett's wickedly witty interpretations of The Emperor's New Clothes. 2003, Kids Can, $10.95, Ages 5 to 8. Reviewer: Barbara L. Talcroft (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 1-55074-939-0
Three Tales of Enchantment
Marilyn Helmer
Illustrated by Kasia Charko
This "Once Upon a Time" series is a refreshing change from the Disney versions of favorite fairy tales. Included in this enchanting collection are retellings of "Sleeping Beauty," "The Little Mermaid," and "Beauty and the Beast." The stories are short enough to be read in one sitting, which makes this a perfect bedtime choice. Glorious color paintings are included on each page and are detailed enough to hold the attention of the youngest listeners. The retelling of "The Little Mermaid" deviates the most from the popular Disney version, particularly the ending in which she does not get her prince after all. Though some children may find the ending unjust, it can lead to a discussion about life's choices and other options for happiness. 2001, Kids Can Press, $10.95, Ages 5 to 8. Reviewer: Cheryl Peterson (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 1-5507-4843-2
Thumbelina
Hans Christian Andersen
Adapted and illustrated by Brad Sneed
Large, lush pictures illustrate this classic tale of a maid no bigger than a thumb. Flowers and plants seem very spacious for this tiny creature as the story is both told and seen from Thumbelina's point of view. The ugly frogs tower over her as they tell her of preparations for her marriage into the frog family. She is barely visible as the fish chew through the stem holding the lily pad. As she is floating down the river enjoying her freedom, a ferocious beetle grabs her and flies away. He sets her free when the other beetles taunt him about Thumbelina's strange appearance. Even the field mouse that Thumbelina lives with through the winter is large in comparison to her tiny size. Fortunately, a bird friend rescues her from an upcoming marriage to a mole. The wren gently drops her into a flower. To her surprise, a diminutive fairy king greets her. Then all of the flowers open and the tiny people of his kingdom emerge. Among the many gifts they bring her, she finds a pair wings. Now Thumbelina and her new husband can fly from flower to flower together. An unusual conclusion to the tale has the wren telling the story as she sits on a windowsill. A man (Hans Christian Andersen) inside the room is writing it down. This is a lovely addition to the collection of Andersen's tales. 2004, Dial, $16.99, Ages 5 to 8. Reviewer: Phyllis Kennemer, Ph.D. (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-8037-2812-3
Thumbelina
Jane Falloon
Illustrated by Emma Chichester Clark
Although this is an admirable retelling of the classic tale of tiny Thumbelina, I'm too much of a feminist to recommend its reading to youngsters of today. Poor Thumbelina will never be happy unless she finds someone to take care of her. She is such a helpless character in this story that I can't even feel sorry for her. She is dragged around by everyone she meets with little ingenuity on her part of how to extricate herself. The charming storybook watercolors seem to portray her as a victim, too. 1996, Margaret K. MeElderry Books/ Simon and Schuster, $16.00, Ages 6 to 8. Reviewer: Meredith Kiger, Ph.D. (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-689-81181-0
Thumbelina
Based upon the story by Hans Christian Andersen
Illustrated by Nicoletta Oeccoli
Everyone wants to find a place where he or she belongs. This is the plot of the story of Thumbelina, the little girl the size of a thumb, who was born out of a flower. Hans Christian Andersen's classic story has come to life with these beautiful illustrations by Nicoletta Oeccoli. The pictures are full of details to capture the imagination and attention of young readers as Thumbelina finds a family of frogs, cleans the house of a mouse, almost marries a mole, flies on the back of a swallow, and finally finds the flower people where she belongs. The illustrations are enhanced by small pieces of silver in the paper that show a teardrop, beetle wings, flower pedals and a walnut shell. Children will want to read this story again and again, and because of the principles of kindness, friendship, love, and belonging that the classic tale teaches, adults will not tire of it either. 2002, Ta Chien Publishing Co, $12.95, Ages 4 to 8. Reviewer: Nicole Peterson (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 1-58845-478-9
Thumbelina
Hans Christian Andersen
Unabridged translation by Erik Haugaard
Illustrated by Arlene Graston
The idea of teeny-tiny people enchanted me as a kid and I loved reading about Thumbelina, the girl who sprouted in a flowerpot and had to brave the huge, dangerous world before finding happiness with others her size. Erik Haugaard's unabridged translation of Hans Christian Anderson's Thumbelina captures the magical, musical quality of the original, with Arlene Graston's pastel-hued illustrations a lovely accompaniment. 1997, Bantam Doubleday Dell, $16.95, Ages 4 to 9. Reviewer: Mary Quattlebaum (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-385-32251-8
Thumbeline
Hans Christian Andersen
Ilustrated by Lisbeth Zwerger
Translated by Anthea Bell
This is a sweet and gentle retelling of Hans Christian Andersen's well-known tale of a thumb size young girl who appears magically in a flower. In her adventures she is captured by a mother toad, a June bug, and survives the winter by staying with a field mouse. Finally, she is delivered from marrying a grumpy mole by a cheerful sparrow and transported to happiness in the kingdom of flowers. The pastel-toned pictures complement this retelling, however it lacks excitement and Thumbeline desperately needs some gumption. In an age where girls are encouraged to be creative, energetic and intelligent in order to reach their goals, Thumbeline is a bland role model. Previously released in 1980 in Switzerland, this retelling would make a good calm bedtime story. Librarians may want to add this to their collection, if only to compare it with other versions of this familiar fairy tale. 2000 (orig. 1980), North-South Books, $15.95, Ages 5 to 10. Reviewer: Wendy Pollock-Gilson (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-7358-1213-6
The Ugly Duckling
Hans Christian Andersen
Pictures by Robert Ingpen
Translated by Anthea Bell
The classic Andersen fairy tale of the final triumph of the brave little duckling has been illustrated many times in both the original words and in retellings. Bell's translation here is rich in psychological insights and in details of the evolution of the hero. Ingpen makes the story distinctly his own, in double-page scenes that integrate the extensive text with images of the characters in amorphous settings, contexts which suggest rather than stipulate fields or sky or farmyard. They create the overarching mood of timelessness, perhaps of mythic mystery. The visual power is set on the front end-papers in a single white water lily created from tissue-paper collage. The final end-papers present the young swan set on the blossom, its petals somehow becoming the feathers. Opaque paints, with elegant touches of gold, and more collage are exploited in each scene, producing the visual narrative filled with the maturing ducklings and their sensibilities. Ingpen's imagination adds considerably to Andersen's in this edition. 2005, A Minedition Book/Penguin Young Readers Group, Ages 4 to 9, $15.99. Reviewers: Ken Marantz and Sylvia Marantz
ISBN: 0-698-40010-0
The Ugly Duckling
Hans Christian Andersen
Adapted by Susan Blackaby
Illustrated by Charlene DeLage
In this retelling of Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tale, a mother duck hatches four small eggs and a large one. The large egg produces a large creature that doesn't really look like a duck. He proves that he can swim and mama duck takes it all in stride. The rest of the flock and the big gray duckling's siblings don't have the same feeling about him. They make fun of him and make his life miserable. He left his family and headed out on his own. In the autumn, he spies a flock of swans and marvels at their beauty and grace. He manages to survive the winter and when spring comes, he joins a trio of those birds he so admired. Imagine his surprise when he learns that he was one of them. Now life was indeed happy for him. The retelling is designed for new readers who are reading independently. They may have heard the story before and will enjoy the challenge of reading this version on their own. The watercolor illustrations are faithful to the text and will give readers clues to help them get through the text. Part of the "Read-it! Readers" series which come in four color-coded levels. Green, which is the level for this one, is the most complex. There is an opening note to parents and caregivers that explains the series structure and some tips for using the book. 2004, Picture Window Books, $18.60, Ages 5 to 7. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 1-40480-222-3
The Ugly Duckling
Retold by Kevin Crossley-Holland
Illustrated by Meilo So
The familiar tale of the unhappy duckling who became a beautiful swan is retold here in accessible, lively language with more than a touch of humor. This romantic story is an opportunity for Meilo So to demonstrate her delicate yet vibrant command of watercolor. Exploiting the whiteness of the pages, she creates scenes bursting with energy--flights of birds, varied plants defining a marsh, fowls in a barnyard and so forth. Even the interiors depict vital activity, but toward the end all becomes gracefully calm as the swan evolves. A great comparison of both text and illustration can be made with Jerry Pinkney's Caldecott Honor winning Ugly Duckling. 2001, Alfred A. Knopf/Random House, $15.95, Ages 4 to 8. Reviewers: Ken Marantz and Sylvia Marantz (Children's Literature).
Regardless of the beautiful and peaceful watercolors of this book, Hans Christian Andersen's beloved tale is no less disturbing and sad than it has been throughout the ages. Crossley-Holland does a fine job re-telling this story in descriptive, energetic and often sophisticated language. It appeals immediately to the older reader who is willing to struggle through difficult words and ask for help in their definition. The ugly duckling enters life under immediate ridicule and suspicion due to his obvious differences. Although supported by his mother at first, she ultimately abandons him, too, and he is faced with loneliness, prejudice and hate. It is difficult to get through this story as it so poignantly illustrates human cruelty. However, there is happiness at the end when the ugly duckling finds his own kind, realizes his beauty and resolves that he is indeed worthy of recognition. A multi-leveled and complex discussion regarding character and goodness must accompany this tale; otherwise, its true message is lost. 2001, Alfred A. Knopf, $15.95, Ages 8 to 15. Reviewer: Andrea Sears Andrews (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-375-81319-5
The Ugly Duckling
Hans Christian Andersen
Adapted and illustrated by Jerry Pinkney
Many of Andersen's fairy tales do not have a truly happy ending, but the story of the ugly duckling is one that ends in triumph. The duckling is not like his brothers and sisters and he is taunted by them and the other ducks. His mother is protective, but the little duckling is treated so badly that he sets out on his own. After suffering much privation, he suddenly sees a flock of the same beautiful birds that flew by many months ago. He glories in his newfound wings and the strength coursing through his body, and decided to join them. Much to his surprise, they welcome him, for he too has become a beautiful white swan. Pinkney's watercolors are wonderful--from the mother duck's surprise at the large egg that takes so long to hatch, to the poor ducklings struggles to survive during the harsh winter to the warmth and beauty of spring and his reunion with those who welcome him as one of their own. The sunlight on the water and around the beautiful swan is a reflection of the golden glow of inner joy. A truly lovely adaptation of this classic story. 1999, Morrow, $16.00, Ages 4 up. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 068815932X
The Ugly Duckling
Hans Christian Andersen
Illustrated by Robert Van Nutt
Follow the adventures of a poor duckling scorned by all because he is different. When Spring comes he triumphs because he is now a swan. This classic story is richly enhanced byVan Nutt's wonderful illustrations that capture the beauty and colors of the ever changing seasons and the ugly ducklings journey through life's sorrows and joys. 1990 (orig. 1986), Knopf, $12.00 and $15.95 (audio), Ages 3 to 6. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot (Children's Literature).
ISBN: 0-394-88403-5
Updated 04/01/05
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