The Princess and the Pea (Classic Fairy Tale Collection) - Softcover

Retold By John Cech

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1454903074 ISBN 13: 9781454903079

Publisher: Sterling, 2012

Synopsis

One of Hans Christian Andersens most beloved stories gets a breathtaking showcase, with lavish art and an elegant retelling by acclaimed writer and professor John Cech. Although the handsome prince meets ladies blessed with beauty, wealth and brains, he knows in his heart that none is the true princess he longs for. Then, one stormy night, a wet, disheveled and very weary young woman knocks at the castle door. Could she be his queen? One tiny pea buried underneath twenty soft mattresses might reveal the truth. Bernhard Oberdiecks stunning images, with their soft colour and unusual perspectives, capture all the fantasy and romance of Andersens appealing tale.

About this title

About the Author

John Cech writes plays, poetry, and fiction for both children and adults and is a Professor of English at the University of Florida in Gainesville. Bernhard Oberdieck has illustrated numerous books and enjoys international acclaim. He uses a variety of media, including coloured pencils, pastels and acrylics, to create his fine, detailed work.

From School Library Journal

Kindergarten-Grade 4—Cech's fluid text sparkles in this well-crafted retelling. He fleshes out the character of the prince with a refreshing addition in which the young man tells the Queen, "I didn't need a pea to tell me she is a real princess. I could see it in the gentleness of her eyes, hear it in the softness of her voice, and feel it in the kindness of her heart." The illustrations, created with colored pencils, pastels, and acrylics, glow with lustrous yellow-gold, blue, and green tones. The court clothing is portrayed in splendid detail, and bold foregrounds dominate the pictures. In one lovely spread, the prince, dressed in blue knee breeches and a doublet trimmed with green ribbon, is lying on a couch; the Queen, wearing a lace-decorated yellow gown, is gazing at him from the background; behind her are the muted figures of dancing couples. An interesting historical note informs readers that similar story elements have appeared in tales from Sweden, Italy, and Kashmir. Children will enjoy this delightful rendition of an old favorite. For readers who prefer a more playful and humorous approach, suggest Lauren Child's fabulous version (Hyperion, 2006).—Kirsten Cutler, Sonoma County Library, CA
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Edition details

• Publisher: Sterling
• Publication date: 2012
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 1454903074
• ISBN 13: 9781454903079
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 24