Jack and the Beanstalk [Hardcover]

Alan Garner (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: September 1, 1992 | Age Level: 5 and up

A retelling of the popular folktale follows Jack as he climbs his beanstalk and outwits a giant, in a work accompanied by colorful paintings.

Editorial Reviews

From School Library Journal

Kindergarten-Grade 4-- A grand retelling of this tale. In the end, when the giant crashes to the ground, ``dead as a doornail,'' Jack quips ` ``That's reckoned him up, . . . rump and stump, it has. Rump and stump.' '' For all the vigorous use of language, Garner does not embroider the story. It is shorter and sparer in detail than many versions. Heller's evocative watercolors set the scenes and extend the excitement of Jack's headlong venture. His rendition of the giant is particularly effective, both scary and ludicrous, with just a touch of Arthur Rackham; both he and his woman tower appropriately over Jack, creating a unique point of view. The full-color paintings are at once naturalistic and suggestive of the possibility of magic. No matter that you have Cauley's version (Putnam, 1983), which is still the best for youngest children; or John Howe's (Little, 1989), with its dramatic medieval setting; you'll never be right fixed until you have Garner's book as well. --Ann Stell, Central Islip Public Library, NY
Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Product Details

• Reading level: Ages 5 and up
  
• Hardcover
• Publisher: Doubleday Books for Young Readers (September 1, 1992)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0385306938
• ISBN-13: 978-0385306935
• Product Dimensions: 10.4 x 7.9 x 0.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 12.8 ounces
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #4,276,803 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)