Customer Reviews

Little Long-nose (Candlewick Treasures)

5 star:		(3)
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Simply one of the best childrens books I've bought! The lovely story is illustrated quite beautifully by Stoddart and contains one stunning page after the other. This really is a joy to read, both for the child and the parent!

Wilhelm Hauff is a German story teller (1st half of the 19th century). His mastery of telling a delicious fairy tale can rival with H.C.Andersen's. W.Hauff left a small body of work - he died at 25, just a few month before his last book was published. Probably, this is the only reason why his name is not well-known.
I read Long Nose as a child and now my 7-year-old daughter had a chance to enjoy it, thanks to the beautiful edition, produced by Candlewick Press. Two words of caution: 1) since this tale is almost 2 centuries old, it shall not be judged in the light of political correctness. Its author did not soften the true sufferings of Long Nose and other heroes. 2) Kirkus Review rated Long Nose as an appropriate reading for 4-8. I think, it is not quite true. The tale is long and the language is advanced (but not archaic). The appropriate age is 6 to 10. Make a wonder happen - give a child this book and read it together.

I fell in love with this fairy tale after reading it one of Andrew Lang's collections--however, I cannot get over this somewhat simplified translation and Laura Stoddart's incredible illustrations (those pictures are what MAKES this edition wonderful). The small size is perfect for younger readers. As for the tale itself, it's one what does not get nearly enough credit in America!