Hansel and Gretel....I can't believe this story dates back to the 1800's. The original by the Grimm's Brothers was interesting enough (kinda scary), but Cynthia Rylant's version takes it to a whole new level. Where the story line stays true, Cynthia Rylant version highlights certain characteristics of Hansel and Gretel. For instance, she emphazises the strength in Hansel and Gretel (especially when Gretel pushes the witch into the fire). I loved see how powerful and smart the children become in their attempt to survive.
The book is worth buying just for the illustrations. The colors are amazing and definitely adds to the mood.
My husband is German, so we have a very old Hansel & Gretel book at home that he was given as a small child (and his father before him). I almost want to replace the book with the Cynthia Rylant one. Just kidding.
I am sure there is a profound difference with the illustrations. I have read other Hansel and Gretel stories by different authors. I have never connected to those like I did to this one. I am not sure if it is because she is such a talented author or if it is because I am more aware and I looking for more specific characteristics that would make a book a great book.
ReplyDeleteI appreciated how Cynthia Rylant highlighted important characteristics of Hansel and Gretel. It gives the story a sense of reality. I think both the word choice and the illustrations add depth to the story.
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