The Twelve Dancing Princesses

Given the recent publication of at least three other retellings of this classic tale of the princesses who mysteriously dance each night away, one may question the need for yet another edition. While certain aspects of Sanderson's oil paintings are lovely, this version is somewhat flawed. With their rich, muted colors and intricate detail, the illustrations capture the story's magic and romance, while recreating the lavish dress and customs of the 15th century. At its best--showing the youngest princess standing in the royal garden or the 12 sisters making their way through a golden forest--Sanderson's art recalls Italian paintings of the era she depicts. The characters' faces and several hairstyles, however, are decidedly contemporary, as if a group of high school youths were attending a masquerade ball. In addition, the book's design is curiously flat and uninteresting: other than the paintings themselves, the pages have a starkness that belies the story's innate elegance. Ages 4-8. (Apr.)