Beauty and the Beast (Hardcover)

~ (Adapter), Angela Barrett (Illustrator)

Editorial Reviews

From School Library Journal

Starred Review. Grade 2-4–Nineteenth-century period details, lively dialogue that is well suited to reading aloud, and sly humor distinguish this retelling. The basic plot is familiar, yet slight changes in details and dialogue deftly customize the tone. The father is portrayed as a doting parent whose flattering introductions to his daughters are provided in staccato. Absolutely lovely, smashing girl, mad about clothes, and amusingly countered by the author's, Now you might consider that Gertrude in fact looked a little spoiled and not very grateful…. Even Beauty is a little vain; when she first touches the beast, she is amazed to see how pale and delicate her hand looked against its fur. Barrett's lovely watercolor illustrations vary in size and shape and the effective use of light and shadow communicates the shifting moods. The haunting landscapes and stark interiors contrast with sunlit, outdoor scenes presented in charming little vignettes. A poignant spread shows Beauty weeping over her Beast. There are many delightful versions of this complex story, and each has its own charm. Certainly, Marianna Mayer's Beauty and the Beast (S & S, 1987) set a high standard. Libraries that feature variants of folklore stories will want this vibrant edition.–Kirsten Cutler, Sonoma County Library, CA
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From Booklist

Eilenberg's lush retelling of the great fairy tale, set in the nineteenth century, pulls out all the stops with a long, lyrical text and beautiful watercolor pictures that depict both the luxury and the anguish of the story. Barrett's illustrations express the contrasts of the story, from the family scenes of the terrible sisters to the view of the brave young hero who goes on a journey to save her miserable dad. Then there are the dark and stormy landscapes surrounding the palace. The sad, lonely monster is a huge demonic presence, "hateful and yet so full of heart, so easy to pain, so eager to please." The final embrace that saves the Beast is a triumphant climax in both words and art. Great for storytelling, especially for readers old enough to understand a little about the importance of love. Hazel Rochman
Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved

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Product Details

• Reading level: Ages 9-12
  
• Hardcover: 64 pages
• Publisher: Candlewick (November 14, 2006)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0763631604
• ISBN-13: 978-0763631604
• Product Dimensions: 9 x 8.9 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.8 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (4 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #441,482 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

7 of 7 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars My Under 10 Book of the Year, December 7, 2006

By	JDS "Teen expert" (London, UK) - See all my reviews

THis book is nothing short of spectacular. I read it to my nine year old (who's well into reading her own novels by now) and we both were moved to tears -- not a regular occurence in this household. Max Eilenberg's retelling of the classic tale is dark and emotional and very moving, and Angela Barrett's illustrations are nothing short of breathtaking. Can't recommend this highly enough for 6-10s. So different from all the jazzy tongue in cheek 'aren't we cool' books out there. This is the real thing.

5 of 5 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Another Beautiful Barrett Book, May 25, 2007

By	MTL (Somewherein, Virginia) - See all my reviews

As usual, it is the elegant, spare and painterly drawings that make the books illustrated by Angela Barrett. They border on the surreal. My only small "complaint" is that there aren't enough full or two-page spreads featuring her illustrations! It seemed a lot of them were relegated to the borders. But, the book is definitely worth picking up if you are a fan of hers, or a fan of beautifully illustrated children's books.

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars GREAT BOOK, December 13, 2007

By	M. Sloane "little rosa" (boston, ma) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

This review is from: Beauty and the Beast (Hardcover)

I just adore this book. I took one look at the cover and just fell in love. The illustrations are absolutely gorgeous, and the storytelling is great. I'm 21 years old, but after flipping through this book for a couple second, i knew i had to have it! I make everyone I know read it hehehe