Classic Fairy Tales Review
Since I purchased Scott Gustafson's Classic Fairy Tales several weeks ago, my four-year old (going on 4-1/2) daughter and I have been absolutely captivated by his exquisite illustrations. This collection remains the show-stopper each and every evening before bed (and in this case, my interest has been sustained as well). I think my daughter is responding not only to the beauty of the pictures, but to Mr. Gustafson's sensitive and nuanced depiction of emotion in the character's faces. It's this latter aspect of the illustrations that sets them apart, in my opinion.
These versions of the classic fairy tales are well-tailored to her pre-school age, introducing her to the more literary themes of good and evil without becoming too graphic or brutal. The volume includes 10 tales: Goldilocks, Red Riding Hood, Three Pigs, Snow White, Cinderella, Rumplestiltskin, Hansel and Gretel, Puss in Boots, Tom Thumb, Frog Prince. They include references to death, starvation (eg in Hansel and Gretel), and boiling big bad wolves -- elements that I sanitized in my reading of other versions when she was younger (2-3 years old) but which she now accepts in these renditions without any fear. On the other hand, some of the most gruesome features of the original tales have been eliminated (for example, Snow White's stepmother just drops down dead at the end and doesn't dance to her death in red-hot iron shoes!) I strongly disagree with another reviewer's criticism of stilted language. To the contrary, the vocabulary and syntax are more mature, perhaps a little lyrical like in the classic tales, which I think provides a natural transition to school-age literature. I realize my daughter doesn't yet understand some of the vocabulary, but when the stories are read out loud with feeling, it's surprising the degree of detail she does grasp, piecing together meanings on her own.
All in all a very exceptional and wonderful volume. I know we'll be returning to this glorious volume for years to come and storing it away for her own children some day. My only disappointment is that there isn't a volume number two!
Classic Fairy Tales Feature
- ISBN13: 9780867130898
- Condition: New
- Notes: BUY WITH CONFIDENCE, Over one million books sold! 98% Positive feedback. Compare our books, prices and service to the competition. 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed
Classic Fairy Tales Overview
This exquisitely illustrated, large format gift book features ten of the most enduring fairy tales of all time. The stories, chosen and edited by the artist, are a balance of 'princess' classics and frolicking adventure tales.
Artist Scott Gustafson spent more than four years creating the seventy-five rich oil paintings, reproduced here in full color. His style is reminiscent of N.C. Wyeth and Wyeth;s gifted student Jessie Wilcox Smith (plus a touch of Arthur Rackham in the fairies). The rounded-face, glowing children and charming interiors contribute to Gustafson?s unique and contemporary style, which will capture the hearts of even the most hard-boiled media-savvy child.
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Customer Reviews
Book review - pecanhead -
The books were purchased for my grandchildren who live out of state. My daughter said book were in very good condition and that the children really are enjoying them.
good -- worth the purchase - Joel H. Vincent - Harlingen, TX
The book is good, fun, etc... The pictures (drawings) are great. The negative is that it's a bit difficult to read out loud. I find myself stumbling as I expect one word, but another is in front of me. Not a huge deal, but it makes it tough to read, and I think it must make it a bit tough for the kids to listen to.
I wish it included a few more tales, and maybe excluded a couple. It's worth the money, and the kids like it.
Great bed time stories! - Paulina Johnson - Cincinnati, ohio United States
So far this is definitely my favorite fairy tale book! The illustrations are just wonderful. I liked it so much that I bought 2 more copies for birthday presents.
*** Product Information and Prices Stored: Aug 24, 2010 17:59:06
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