Fairy Godmother recommends:
Sleeping Beauty by Mahlon F. Craft, illustrated by K.Y. Craft. We own this one, and read it often. The story is wonderful, but the artwork really takes it to the next level. K.Y. Craft is one of my favorite illustrators; her paintings look like they should be on display in a museum.
Cinderella, by K.Y. Craft. This version of the very familiar fairy tale isn't the most childlike, as it retains a lot of the old-fashioned prose and vocabulary, but it has to be the most stunning. Some of the meaning might be lost on the youngest children, but the beautiful, detailed paintings are a treat for all ages.
Rapunzel, by Paul O. Zelinsky. This version of Rapunzel has a lot in common with the recent Disney movie Tangled, in that Rapunzel's tower is less a barren prison and more a comfortable home in which she is confined. Rather than an evil witch who keeps her captive, Rapunzel has an overbearing mother figure who resists letting her daughter grow up and become self-reliant, and possessively keeps her all to herself. The Caldecott award-winning illustrations are captivating; we had to purchase a copy of this book for our home library.
Hansel and Gretel, by Rika Lesser. This version of the Brothers Grimm's grisly story is short and simple enough for very young children, provided they can handle the disturbing content -- a cannibalistic old lady, an evil mother who leaves her children to die alone in the woods -- without having nightmares. Of course, children love the idea of a candy house, and even after all of Hansel and Gretel's trials they find their way home to their father with pockets full of treasure and live happily ever after!
Rumpelstiltskin, by Paul O. Zelinsky. Zelinsky stays true to the original version of the story, right down to the detail of Rumpelstiltskin flying off in a rage on a giant cooking spoon when the miller's daughter guesses his name. The language may be a little difficult for the youngest children, but Zelinsky's masterful illustrations can carry the story on their own.
Jack and the Beanstalk, by Steven Kellogg. This book is excellent for kids of all ages, as the story is neither too wordy nor too frightening. Kellogg stays true to the original story, and his fun, action-packed illustrations tell miniature stories of their own. Children will be sure to notice funny new details with each reading, making this the perfect book to own and read over and over.
Puss in Boots, by Charles Perrault, illustrated by Fred Marcellino. This book is a little bit longer than some of the others, but the story is exciting and engaging throughout. A 1991 Caldecott winner, Marcellino's beautiful illustrations help hold the attention of younger children. This book belongs on every library shelf.
King Midas and the Golden Touch, by Charlotte Craft. While the tale of King Midas was originally a Greek myth, this version is based on Nathaniel Hawthorne's retelling, which is structured more like a fairy tale. With the stunning artwork of K.Y. Craft, the message of this story really gets through to even the youngest children as King Midas wishes that all he touches would turn to gold, and then learns the hard way that a blessing can quickly become a curse.
Pegasus, by Marianna Mayer, illustrated by K.Y. Craft. Mayer is one of my all-time favorite authors of children's literature, and I consider it nothing short of a tragedy that much of her best work is now out of print. Add this stunning book to your child's collection while you still can! This Greek tale about the hero Bellerophon, who must team up with the winged horse Pegasus to slay the terrifying chimera, is true action and adventure at it's best.
The Tale of the Firebird, by Gennady Spirin.
In all the world there is said to be nothing more beautiful than the Firebird. When Ivan-Tsarevitch goes on a quest for the amazing bird, he finds himself flying over mountains and woods on a talking wolf, confronting a wicked Baba Yaga, and rescuing an enchanted princess. But when he returns from his magical journey, he brings home the most precious treasure of all. Spirin brings this original version of the Firebird tale from his native Russia and has illustrated it in his trademark rich, luminous style. This retelling of a classic is sure to become the new standard.
Snow White, by the Brothers Grimm, illustrated by Charles Santore. This is the longer version of the story, staying true to the original. Children familiar with the poisoned apple might be surprised to know that the original also included a poisoned comb, tightened laces, and the evil witch getting her just desserts with the help of a pair of enchanted slippers. The illustrations are gorgeous and really bring the story (especially the seven dwarfs) to life.
The Twelve Dancing Princesses, by Ruth Sanderson. While I think the illustrations in Marianna Mayer's version of this Grimm fairy tale are better (The Twelve Dancing Princesses
), Sanderson's story is is more faithful to the original, and the illustrations are still beautiful. Like Cinderella and Sleeping Beauty, The Twelve Dancing Princesses is a romantic fairy tale. It's not a "girly" book, however! There's plenty here for boys to enjoy, including mysterious enchantments, midnight travels through the woods, and a cunning young man who finally manages to do what so many princes could not, and free the King's twelve daughter's from their curse.
Goldilocks and the Three Bears, by Gennady Spirin. With simple text and luscious illustrations, Spirin's version of this familiar story is perfect for children ages 3 and up!
The Sea King's Daughter, by Aaron Shepard, illustrated by Gennady Spirin. Formerly a professional storyteller, Shepard does a wonderful job with this classic Russian legend, though the length of the story makes it more suitable for children ages 8 and older. As always, Spirin's illustrations are beautiful and bring this old story of mermaids and humans to life.
Baba Yaga and Vasilisa the Brave, by Marianna Mayer, illustrated by K.Y. Craft. Part Cinderella, part Hansel and Gretel, mostly classic Russian fairy tale, the tale of evil old Baba Yaga and the courageous young Vasilisa is an exciting adventure with masterful illustrations. Be warned, however, that this story has many dark, gruesome elements that may frighten some children.
The Snow Queen, by Amy Ehrlich, illustrated by Susan Jeffers. Ehrlich does a great job with Hans Christian Anderson's story of sweet young Gerda, on a mission to rescue her friend Kai from the evil Snow Queen. I especially appreciate that Kai's name is correct in this version (an old Celtic name, rhymes with 'sky') and not changed to Kay as in so many other books. The pictures are ethereal and beautiful; Jeffers does such a good job depicting the Snow Queen's icy environment that I feel a little cold just looking at this book!
The Princess and the Pea, by John Cech, illustrated by Bernhard Oberdieck. A truly beautiful book with soft, enchanting illustrations, that also stays true to the original Hans Christian Andersen story. The characters in this version are more developed than in the original, which benefits the story greatly. Great for read-alouds to even very young children.
The Elves and the Shoemaker, by Jim LaMarche. This version of the old Grimm fairy tale only suggest the Christmas season rather than focusing on the holiday aspects, and elaborates on the themes of kindness and selfless giving. The illustrations are fantastic, as evidenced by the beautiful cover art. Another good book for all ages!
The Ugly Duckling, by Jerry Pinkney. For over one hundred years The Ugly Duckling has been a childhood favorite, and Jerry Pinkney's spectacular new adaptation brings it triumphantly to new generations of readers. With keen emotion and fresh vision, the acclaimed artist captures the essence of the tale's timeless appeal: The journey of the awkward little bird -- marching bravely through hecklers, hunters, and cruel seasons -- is an unforgettable survival story; this blooming into a graceful swan is a reminder of the patience often necessary to discover true happiness. Splendid watercolors set in the lush countryside bring drama to life. Perfect for children ages 3 and up.
Little Red Riding Hood, by Trina Schart Hyman. The author of this book used to pretend she was Little Red Riding Hood when she was a little girl, wearing a red cape sewn by her mother. Her love for this character permeates her award-winning retelling of the traditional Grimm story, even as Grandma and Little Red get eaten alive by the wolf and then saved by the kindly woodsman (illustrated carefully with a minimum of violence). A wonderful, inexpensive book, sure to be a favorite of children 5 and up.
The Magic Nesting Doll, by Jacqueline K. Ogburn, illustrated by Laurel Long. This story is an original based on Russian folklore, but perfectly captures the feeling of a much older story. When young Katya inherits a magic nesting doll from her dying grandmother, she is able to use it to break the enchantment that keeps a small village locked in perpetual winter darkness with the help of a wolf, a bear, and a firebird.
A Frog Prince, by Alix Berenzy. The hero of this neoclassical fairy tale is a veritable prince of a frog--brave, honest, and true. Overcoming great obstacles and depths of despair, he is finally rewarded with his heart's desire. Vivid paintings are rich in detail and illuminated with jewel-like gleam in this sparkling effort. Unlike the original, the snotty princess isn't rewarded for gradually deigning to tolerate the helpful frog; rather, the frog finds someone who truly values him for his many qualities.
The Little Mermaid, by Lisbeth Berger. Unlike the well-known Disney version, this story has no happy ending. Instead, Berger chooses to follow the original themes of love and self-sacrifice, the little mermaid destined to see her beloved marry another while she is fated to die the next day. While many websites recommend it for ages 4 and up, I personally think it's best for slightly older children who can appreciate the beauty and sadness of the tale.
The Wild Swans, by Amy Ehrlich, illustrated by Susan Jeffers. When her eleven brothers are turned into mute swans by their evil stepmother, brave Eliza endures great suffering to break the spell and rescue them. A story of loyalty, deceit, and the healing power of love, this classic fairy tale is exquisitely illustrated by Susan Jeffers. It is a tad on the lengthy side; younger children may not have quite the attention span for this one.
Thumbelina, by Sylvia Long. From best-selling artist Sylvia Long comes an exquisite version of Hans Christian Andersen's beloved tale about a thumb-size girl and her larger-than-life adventures. As always, Long's artwork is stunning and detailed, and the story is somewhat shorter and easier for younger children to enjoy than other versions. A valuable addition to any child's collection, this work of art deserved to be passed down through generations.
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