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.
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Book Description
Editorial Reviews
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.
- Linda Boyles, Alachua County Library District, Gaineville, FL
Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.
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Most Helpful Customer Reviews
12 of 14 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
One of the best adaptations yet,
By A Customer
This review is from: Beauty and the Beast (Hardcover)
I have always loved the story "beauty and the beast" and have started to read different adaptations of it. My favorite ones are "the rose daughter" and "Beauty" by Robin McKinly. I first found this book in the elementary library of my school and immediately fell in love with it. I must have checked it out ten times. Now I am in sixth grade, and I decided since I love it so much I would like to buy it. I first looked here, since amazon has everything, but woe to me! It is out of print. Now I am scouring every used bookstore I come across for Nancy willards wonderful book. For other lovers of this tale, don't give up! Oh please, don't bail! This book is someplace to be found, and if you do you will be crowned! ;-)
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Beautifully rendered adaptation,
This review is from: Beauty and the Beast (Hardcover)
For as long as I can remember, I've loved fairy tales. My young daughter loves them too, and we spend many happy hours on weekends browsing libraries and used bookstores for various versions of favorite fairy tales. I found this title at our local library the other day and what a find! Frankly, this adaptation is more for older children and adults and one that I found rich and satisfying. The old premise has been reworked by author Nancy Willard - the setting is now turn of the century New York and the rich period details enhance this compelling tale of love and sacrifice. The beauty of the prose is enhanced by a series of wood engravings (in black and white) by artist Barry Moser. Particularly compelling is the rendering of Beast whose monstrous appearance is offset by a pair of very human and perceptive eyes which reflect all the pain and longing he feels. Beauty in turn is not drop dead gorgeous, but rather strong, courageous and sweet, possessed of compassion and insight and comes to see the true nature hidden beneath the forbidding appearance of Beast. The vivid prose combined with the richly detailed illustrations make for an engaging and satisfying reading experience. This is worth tracking down and a must-have for any fairy tale enthusiast.
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