The Fairy Tales of the Brothers Grimm
Edited by Noel Daniel, trans. from the German by Matthew P. Price and Noel Daniel. Taschen, $39.99 (320p) ISBN 978-3-8365-2672-2
This gorgeous treasury pairs new translations of 27 of the Grimm brothers’ fairy tales with vintage illustrations dating from the 1820s to the 1950s. Brief introductions offer insight into the symbolism, themes, and contemporary relevance of each tale. Though Price and Daniel’s translations feel modern (“Spare me the bawling,” the old woman tells Hansel and Gretel), they honor the darkness that characterizes “Little Red Riding Hood,” “Snow White,” and other tales. The images show striking range, from Walter Crane’s lush illustrations for “The Frog Prince” to Wanda Gag’s droll pen-and-ink drawings for “The Fisherman and His Wife.” The elegant presentation should entice readers to discover the cornucopia within. All ages. (Oct.)
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Reviewed on: 10/24/2011
Genre: Children's