Tattercoats

Tattercoats is the beautiful grandchild of a wealthy lord, neglected by him because his favorite daughter died giving birth to her. The townspeople mock her, calling her ``Tattercoats'' because of the rags she wears. Only an old nurse and a gooseherd befriend her, and when Tattercoats needs help to get to a ball and marry a prince, prove their friendship once and for all. Long, flowing sentences and traditional language stylize this familiar tale. Tomes's elegant paintings delicately capture and extend the emotions in the story; grays, beiges and pale pastel colors, outlined and embellished with fine strokes, re-create the simplicity and nobility of the era. Ages 5-9. (Sept.)