Rapunzel

Publishers Weekly - Publisher's Weekly

A condensed, almost studiously faithful version of the Grimm folktale forms the text for this flawed picture book--though this retelling significantly omits the twins Rapunzel first gives birth to. Heyer ( Excalibur ; Beauty and the Beast ) sets idealized but stiff figures in a variety of conventional if lushly colored settings, adding little drama to the formal, somewhat affected text. With their stylish coiffures and made-up faces, her contemporary figures could be straight from the pages of a romance magazine--much of the clothing lacks true period detail. The result is simply mundane. Ages 5-8. (Sept.)

Children's Literature - Judy Katsh

A rather ordinary retelling of the well-known tale of love hidden away, lost, and found gets luscious treatment from illustrator Maja Dusikova. Soft watercolor landscapes colored in sympathetic harmony with the action rescue this book from its plainness and make it enjoyable to snuggle up with. The only other things you'd need would be a comfy adult co-reader and the glow of a warm fire.

Children's Literature - Marilyn Courtot

Radiant tempura and pastel paintings evoke the deep emotions of the story: tenderness, loneliness, terror and joy. This retelling of the story is simple enough to be read by beginners, yet is faithful to the original story. A must for every folklore and fairy tale reader.