Amazon.com
This updated version of Hans Christian Andersen's classic
Thumbelina is set by a river in a rain forest in South America. A childless woman prays every day to be blessed with a child. One day, a rare exotic flower floats down the river. Wrapped in its beautiful leaves is Thumbelina, a child no bigger than the woman's thumb. The woman rejoices in her answered prayers. As Thumbelina grows older (not taller), she yearns to "have an adventure." And what an adventure this street-smart, strong girl ends up having- -she is kidnapped by an overzealous mother frog, swept away by floodwaters, and set to marry a sinister bat prince. Rescued and returned to her mother, Thumbelina learns the power of love and friendship, and that appearances aren't always what they seem.
Originally produced for HBO, this version of Thumbelina is multicultural and modern. Narration by Robert Guillaume and the voice talents of Rosie Perez as Thumbelina are wonderful additions. This version has fun with the culture (example: Thumbelina's bed is an avocado) Viewers can also learn Spanish names for things as they go along on Thumbelina's rain-forest adventure. Muy bueno! Good for children 3 and older, but one the whole family will enjoy. --Peggy Maltby-Etra