Items related to The Nutcracker

The Nutcracker - Hardcover

  • 4.01 out of 5 stars
    152 ratings by Goodreads
 
9780803732858: The Nutcracker

Synopsis

Based on the Balanchine ballet, this sumptuous package is the perfect gift for any fan of The Nutcracker-young or old. The nicely balanced text (not too much, not too little) captures all the best moments and sets the stage for Alison Jay's richly imagined art. Sharp-eyed readers will notice tiny details playing out thrillingly over the course of the story (keep an eye on the gifts under the Christmas tree!). From the cozy Christmas party to the delectable Marzipan Palace, Alison Jay's artwork is truly enchanting-a snow-globe version of The Nutcracker to read every night before Christmas and all winter long.

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About the Author

Alison Jay lives in London, England.

Reviews

K-Gr 3–Jay bases the illustrations for this classic tale on the Balanchine ballet. The smooth and somewhat abbreviated retelling is suitable for reading aloud, and the art created using oil paint on paper with crackling varnish evokes the ballet without being literal restagings. The cover depicts a snow globe with Clara and the prince being pulled in a sleigh through the Land of Snow, but that motif is not reflected in the interior illustrations. Most libraries have many versions of The Nutcracker in their collections; this one is handsome and acceptable if more editions are needed.Virginia Walter, UCLA Graduate School of Education and Information Studies
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One of the loveliest picture books based on Hoffman’s story, which inspired the familiar ballet The Nutcracker, this volume offers lively illustrations and a concise, smoothly written version of the dreamlike tale. On Christmas Eve, Godfather Drosselmeyer presents Clara with a nutcracker soldier, but her brother breaks it. After she falls asleep, the Nutcracker comes to life and defeats the menacing Mouse King and his army. The Nutcracker, transformed into the Prince, takes Clara to a feast at his castle, where dancers entertain them. Clara awakens at home to find that the wooden nutcracker is now whole again. Painting in oils with a crackled varnish finish, Jay creates warm, opulent indoor settings and cool, beautiful outdoor scenes. The characters move through them with grace and elegance. A fine interpretation of this familiar tale. Grades K-3. --Carolyn Phelan

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