The Nutcracker and the Mouse King: The Graphic Novel

Andrewson renders an immersive re-imagining of the classic Christmas tale in 14 chapters. In Germany, Marie and Fritz Stahlbaum await Christmas Eve and their godfather Drosselmeier, a "mechanically minded" man who each year brings them handmade gifts. Discovering a nutcracker beneath the tree, Marie fervently guards it, first from battle-minded Fritz, then, in a series of nightmarish clashes, from a terrifying Mouse King who appears to Marie after midnight. Occasional captions guide readers through Marie's experiences over several nights, while a secondary fairy tale arc--of the human Princess Pirlipat and revenge-obsessed mouse Lady Mouserinks--adds context to Marie's story. In whimsical full-color art that employs thin lines and bright colors, Andrewson fills each page with measured revelations that mimic the ballet's drama--the Christmas tree's appearance, the clock striking midnight, the arrival of the mice and the many-headed Mouse King--while centering Marie's bravery and grit. A captivating, otherworldly adaptation for old fans and new. Ages 6-10. (Sept.) ■

"[Andrewson's] distinctive illustration style is well matched to Hoffmann's story, with vivid colors, wavy linework, and exaggerated facial expressions that all reinforce the trippy, unsettling plot." —Kirkus