Customer Reviews

The Stories of Hans Christian Andersen: A New Translation from the Danish

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

The presentation of this book is superb; it is beautifully designed and produced, with charming illustrations that are especially apt, as they were executed by Andersen's contemporaries.

The admirable introduction places Andersen in the context of his time, and for American readers, links him to this country in a fresh way. A perfect length, the introduction provides the kind of information that makes one eager to get to the stories, yet it is not so detailed that, as too often happens with the more long-winded variety, it is skipped. Don't skip it, for it serves as an important guide to the stories, noting Andersen's adult concerns and anxieties imbedded beneath the surface of the tales, which remain wonderful out-loud reading for small fry.

The stories themselves are a revelation--dispelling the prejudices engendered by Danny Kaye and Disney. Stories taken for granted are new and impeccably rendered in this translation. (Even the notes are great--and should be read before the stories, filled as they are with fascinating information. Also, they're conveniently placed at the end of each story, yet the pages are not sullied by superscript numbers.)
This is a perfect gift, but be sure to keep one for yourself.

Having recently visited Odense, Denmark, with a tour guide who is a true Andersen expert, I was eager to take her suggestion that I find a more authentic translation of Andersen's work than is generally available. This book provides just what she recommended. Its short biogrqphical sketch of the man presents the REAL H.C. Andersen accurately, according to what I learned about him in Denmark, & the stories themselves are not "cleaned up" but are direct translations. I especially appreciate insights provided in the Notes at the end of each tale. They give the reader an even deeper look into the complex, fascinating man. This is not your Danny Kaye's H.C. Andersen !!

I wouldn't recommend buying this book if your an adult, the stories aren't very exciting and the narratives aren't very deep. But for a child anywhere from 5th grade-middle school or even high school I would highly recommend it.

What a shame! The book IS beautiful. I had hoped to give it as a gift to my 5 year old, but the biographical notes are much too sexually explicit.