From School Library Journal
Kindergarten-Grade 4. This unabridged translation of the classic story is more suitable for an older audience than Jane Falloon's sprightly retelling (McElderry, 1997). The narrative is smooth, spare, and rich in descriptive language that is never ornate. The text has an old-fashioned flavor while appealing to modern sensibilities. Graston's watercolor illustrations suit the narrative perfectly. Whereas Emma Chichester Clark depicted Thumbelina as a sturdy, feisty child in Falloon's version, Graston's character is dainty and ethereal. The illustrations are beautifully textured, with a tiled impression in the background and carefully distinguished details: a teapot on the hearth in the field mouse's house; the mole's fur; the swallow's feathers. More somber in tone than Chichester Clark's sunny illustrations, Graston's paintings enhance the old-world nuances of Haugaard's translation and will engage readers. The portrait of Andersen listening to the swallow's tale on the last page is delightful. A remarkable, lovely version of one of the author's most beloved tales, this title more than earns its place on the shelf.?Donna L. Scanlon, Lancaster County Library, PA
Copyright 1997 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From Kirkus Reviews
Thumbelina (32 pp.; $16.95; Oct.; 0-385-32251-8): Graston brings new illustrations to Haugaard's 1974 translation, but neither new art nor old text holds up to contemporary scrutiny. The tribulations of Thumbelina comes across as quite small; all she can do is weep, leaving the dirty work to others. Thumbelina's one claim to fame is her beauty, which readers are never allowed to forget, and Graston's illustrations, technically impressive, fail to give the tale even a breath of fresh air. (Picture book/folklore. 4-8) --
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