Six Swans: A Folktale [Hardcover]

Christine San Jose (Author), Jacob Grimm (Author), Wilhelm Grimm (Author), Jes Cole (Illustrator)

Book Description

Age Level: 6 and up | Grade Level: 1 and up

A princess watches as her six brothers run into the forest. Suddenly she sees six white shirts tumble out of the sky. It is the work of an evil witch, for when the shirts land on the brothers, they are instantly transformed into swans. There is only one way to break the spell: the princess must sew six shirts made from fragile stitchwort flowers. It will take her six years to complete the shirts, and during that time, she cannot make a sound or utter a word, or the spell will remain unbroken. This beautiful story was popular long before it first appeared in print in Household Tales by Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm. With stunning illustrations by Jes Cole, Christine San José's version of this folktale is perfect for reading aloud.

Editorial Reviews

From School Library Journal

Grade 1-4–This version of the classic fairy tale is told compellingly from the sister's perspective. The princess's deep love for her brothers is established in the first paragraph and explains her actions throughout the story. This retelling follows the traditional tale until the end: it's the jealousy of her husband's sister and not her mother-in-law that leads to near catastrophe. But all is forgiven and everyone lives happily ever after. Children will be satisfied with the brightly colored, full-page illustrations. Different perspectives in the pictures support the story's drama and add interest. For a new spin on an old favorite, this is a strong choice.–Carol S. Surges, McKinley Elementary School, Wauwatosa, WI
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About the Author

Christine San Jose is a former senior editor of Highlights for Children and she served as language arts editor for Zaner-Bloser, Inc. She has done consulting work in language arts in England, Peru, Israel, and the United States. She is a storyteller of considerable talent and finds that a great help in her writing. She lives in Honesdale, Pennsylvania.

Jes is a graduate of the Rhode Island School of Design. This is her first picture Book. She lives in Medfield, Massachusetts.

Product Details

• Reading level: Ages 6 and up
  
• Hardcover: 32 pages
• Publisher: Boyds Mills Press (November 1, 2006)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1590780566
• ISBN-13: 978-1590780565
• Product Dimensions: 12.3 x 9.2 x 0.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 14.4 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,657,122 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)