Cinderella (Once Upon a World #1)

In one of two board books kicking off the Once Upon a World series, Perkins transplants the story of Cinderella to Mexico, though in only the most superficial of ways. Mexican illustrator Equihua embraces the setting in her digital cartoons, from the tiled floor of Cinderella's home to the layered white gown she wears to the ball. But with no real attempt made to integrate Mexican life into the retelling (not a word of Spanish is used, and the ball is thrown by the king, despite the nation's brief history with monarchy), the overall effect is that of cultural window-dressing. Snow White, set in Japan, is available simultaneously. Ages 2-4. (Sept.)

K-Gr 2--In these board books, standard fairy tales are simply and traditionally retold and splendidly paired with multicultural illustrations, lending a new flair to the old stories. Cinderella is set in Mexico. The folk art--style images are bursting with color, as Cinderella attends the ball (fiesta) and meets her prince. Snow White is set in Japan, with a princess (wearing a kimono) who lives in a castle (a pagoda). The artwork, with its heavy use of black, reinforces the dark tone of the fairy tale. In both entries, the familiar and pleasing ending of "happily ever after" is emphasized with bold print. These editions are clearly for older audiences rather than for typical board book readers, but fairy-tale lovers are not likely to mind. VERDICT These traditional retellings of classic fairy tales with a multicultural visual twist will appeal to new and old fans of the stories.--Ramarie Beaver, Plano Public Library System, TX