In commemoration of the 20th anniversary of its publication, we're thrilled to reissue this phenomenal delight, which enjoyed 62 weeks on the New York Times best-seller list. Fantasy and fun combine in this "real life" history.
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Browse the best books of the summer including popular series, classics, and editors' picks in our Teen Summer Reading Store. |
Book Description
Editorial Reviews
Language Notes
Text: English, Dutch (translation)
Product Details
Would you like to update product info or give feedback on images? |
More About the Authors
Discover books, learn about writers, read author blogs, and more.
Customer Reviews
Most Helpful Customer Reviews
77 of 78 people found the following review helpful
By Lesley West
Format:Hardcover
Everyone should own this book - it is utterly irresistable! It has magical characters, magnificent finely drawn illustrations, and presents an overall philosophy of life that we could all learn lessons from. Please don't be fooled into thinking that it is just a children's book - it is a wonderful addition to any library.
It has a believable and detailed discussion of the food is are most loved by gnomes, how they raise their children, when they marry, where they live, what sorts of pets they have (cute mice in little baskets!) and how they tend to animals in the wild. The section which shows a cut away of their house is worth the purchase price alone - the imagination and thought that has gone into this book is amazing.
So if you want a little whimsy in your library, or on your coffee table, this is the book for you. If you want a book with magnificently detailed ilustrations, this is a book for you. Overall I think it is a book for everyone who is young at heart, or who likes a little magic in their everyday lives.
24 of 24 people found the following review helpful
By "mamacats3"
Format:Hardcover
In 1976 a delightful book was published in the Netherlands. It was titled "Leven en werken van de Kabouter". Luckily for us, the Abrams publishing company found this book and translated it to the english version, titled "Gnomes", in 1977. Twenty five years later, a special edition has been released to the public.
For the art lover, this book is filled with wonderful illustrations! It was illustrated by Rien Poortvliet, and I will be doing an article on him later, for those who are interested.
This book is a must have for any fantasy lover. It is formatted as a diary of Gnome facts and sightings. Many of the illustrations are accompanied by hand-written notes. The book covers all aspects of Gnome life, from birth to marriage, and on to death. Each subject is carefully organized, and written about fully!
The book also briefly covers other mythological figures, of a more sinister nature. They discuss the conection that gnomes have with these creatures of darkness.
At the end of the book are a few fairy tales about gnomes, these brought back many fond memories of my father reading them to me before bed time!
One small note of caution; there is some nudity, and some graphic images of injuries, so I would not reccommend this book for small children. Parents, use your own judgement and preview before purchasing!
18 of 19 people found the following review helpful
Format:Hardcover
This isn't a book that would normally make its way into my reading pile but I am glad it did. I remember growing up and watching a show called David the Gnome and this book helped my to capture a little bit of my lost youth.
It is wonderfully written and illustrated. The descriptions are so well written and so detailed that you shouldn't be surprised to find yourself absently staring at your own garden trying to capture a glimpse of the Gnomes yourself. This is a great read and would make a wonderful present for yourself or someone you know looking to add just a little bit of magic to their lives.
It is wonderfully written and illustrated. The descriptions are so well written and so detailed that you shouldn't be surprised to find yourself absently staring at your own garden trying to capture a glimpse of the Gnomes yourself. This is a great read and would make a wonderful present for yourself or someone you know looking to add just a little bit of magic to their lives.
Most Recent Customer Reviews
5.0 out of 5 stars
Charming
What a wonderful introduction into the life of Gnomes. I've been enchanted by gnomes since childhood. This book allows you to peer into their innermost doings. Read more
Published 5 days ago by Miss Maudie
5.0 out of 5 stars
Just like I remember
We used to have a paperback version of this book when I was younger. No, don't buy this for little kids unless you don't mind a little drawn nudity and some risque humor. Read more
Published 25 days ago by Em Baisch
4.0 out of 5 stars
Beautiful
This book is beautifully illustrated and cleverly written. It may not be appropriate for very young children (under 7) depending on their literary exposure. Read more
Published 1 month ago by Bobbie Redington
5.0 out of 5 stars
Great book on gnomes
I bought this book For a friend of mine at work Kerri as I got her as a secret Santa. Well I didn't know she likes gnomes at the time but someone I work with let me in on her... Read more
Published 1 month ago by Stanhouse
5.0 out of 5 stars
The ultimate in gnome-ology.
Explore the history, language, traditions and even mating rituals of these kindly, industrious helpers of all woodland creatures. Read more
Published 1 month ago by Laura Bevignani
5.0 out of 5 stars
Fun book with fanciful artwork
If you like gnomes then you will like this book. I remember looking through the pictures as a child and now as an adult I am still engaged with the artwork. Read more
Published 1 month ago by Kyle Harrison Kloepper
5.0 out of 5 stars
My Review
One of my favorites as a kid, I recently re-read this classic and thoroughly enjoyed it again as an adult. Read more
Published 1 month ago by Stefan Yates
5.0 out of 5 stars
This is a repurchase for me.
Really a cute book. Great graphics. I still need to set aside some time to read it again. This is a classic from my childhood.
Published 1 month ago by Cara
5.0 out of 5 stars
Simply Magical!
The only words needed to describe this book are "Beautiful & Magical"! This is a book you'll treasure for a lifetime!
Published 2 months ago by SatanInHighHeels
5.0 out of 5 stars
Book is great .
excellant reading
I really enjoyed and will return to reading it many times ! Iwould recommend this to anyone who loves the Little poeople .
I really enjoyed and will return to reading it many times ! Iwould recommend this to anyone who loves the Little poeople .
Published 2 months ago by Lord robertson
What Other Items Do Customers Buy After Viewing This Item?
Sell a Digital Version of This Book in the Kindle Store
If you are a publisher or author and hold the digital rights to a book, you can sell a digital version of it in our Kindle Store.
Learn more
Listmania!
|
|
So You'd Like to...
|
|
