The Princess and the Pea

A long time ago, there lived a prince who was looking for someone very special to marry. One of Hans Christian Andersen’s most beloved stories gets a breathtaking showcase, with lavish art and an elegant retelling by acclaimed writer, professor, and radio host John Cech. It’s the second exquisite entry in the Classic Fairy Tale Collection series.
 
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 20 soft mattresses might reveal the truth…
 
Bernhard Oberdieck’s stunning images, with their soft color and unusual perspectives, capture all the fantasy and romance of Andersen’s appealing tale.

John Cech is a professor of English at the University of Florida where he is the Director of the Center for Children's Literature and Culture. He was the creator, producer, and host of the daily public radio program “Recess!” about the cultures of childhood. He has served as the President of the Children's Literature Association and received the Anne Devereaux Jordan Award for his contributions to children's literature. John has written seven books in the Classic Fairy Tale Collection for Sterling, in addition to retellings of Aesop's Fables, illustrated by Martin Jarrie, and The Nutcracker, illustrated by Eric Puybaret. John lives in Gainesville, FL, with his wife, Eve.

Bernhard Oberdieck has illustrated numerous books and enjoys international acclaim. He uses a variety of media—including colored pencils, pastels, and acrylics—to create fine, detailed work. Bernhard is also an avid collector of children’s picture books. He lives in Ramerberg in Bavaria with his wife and two sons.