Beauty and the Beast

Gr 2-5--A sumptuous retelling of this well-known story. An author and illustrator's note explains that the Crafts conducted extensive research before finalizing their own text for this classic tale, examining not only Jeanne-Marie Leprince de Beaumont's version, which was published in France in 1756, but numerous other retellings as well. What has emerged is an adaptation that effectively captures the mystery and magic of this tale in lyrical language. Some dark elements and the length make this book more appropriate for older elementary students. The illustrations are nothing short of gorgeous. Rendered with miniature sable brushes in oil and watercolor on gesso panels, they are rich in detail and depth of color. There is a certain misty luminosity that carries readers into this forest of illusion. VERDICT Even libraries that own Marianna Mayer's beautiful Beauty and the Beast (Four Winds, 1978) should still consider this enchanting addition.--Grace Oliff, Ann Blanche Smith School, Hillsdale, NJ