Beauty and the Beast - Hardcover

Willard, Nancy

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0152060529 ISBN 13: 9780152060527

Publisher: Harcourt Childrens Books, 1992

Synopsis

Taking the place of her father as the prisoner of the Beast, young Beauty finds enchantment, friendship, romance, and love with the frightening Beast, in a magical version of the famous folktale, complemented by magnificent wood engravings. All ages.

About this title

From School Library Journal:

Grade 3-6-- From a first glimpse of the jacket, readers will know that this is not just another retelling of an old story, but something entirely different. And so it is, for Willard and Moser have reworked the foundations of the tale to create a book that startles and surprises (and absolutely satisfies) readers. While the plot is remarkably true to the original, the setting will catch readers off guard--New York at the turn of the century. The rough-hewn, prosaic American backdrop may seem at odds with the magic of the tale, but Willard's poetic prose, filled with vivid images and intricate period detail, and Moser's strong, evocative black-and-white wood engravings root the tale firmly and naturally in this place; the characters fit it perfectly. Beauty is a sturdy, pragmatic young woman--kind, courageous, and rational. She is human enough to resent her sisters' greed, while her intelligence allows her to see the Beast's sorrow and gentleness despite his ugliness. And this is a truly horrible beast--one that walks upright with a grossly distorted, but all- too-human face (rather like George C. Scott as Mr. Hyde). This is a masterful collaboration, with text and illustration anticipating and echoing each other. The language is direct, yet rich in images; the pictures are solidly rendered, with delicately sensuous undertones. They have an intriguing depth and dimension, like old photographs that capture real moments in time. This is an astonishing and beautifully made book, with an original vision and unique voice. Don't miss it.
- Linda Boyles, Alachua County Library District, Gaineville, FL
Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.

About this edition

• Publisher: Harcourt Childrens Books
• Publication date: 1992
• ISBN 10: 0152060529
• ISBN 13: 9780152060527
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 67
• Illustrator: Moser Barry