Hoffman's original 1816 story serves as the text for this version, and readers familiar with the tale through the ballet will find some aspects of the plot are different. DeMarcken's detailed illustrations fill the large-format pages with a charming Nutcracker in a purple uniform, as well as a huge cast of characters from the various fantasy locations visited by Marie and her friend. Illustration placement is varied throughout, with images of different sizes interspersed on each spread, often serving as borders; this clever design keeps the lengthy text from appearing overwhelming. Though the pictures are lovely to look at, this version is really too long for most children and thus will be appropriate only for large collections needing an illustrated edition of the original story. (foreword) (Picture book. 6-9)
Happy December 26! The stockings are unstuffed, the wrapping paper’s tossed, and visions of sugarplums have been overtaken by dreams of dancing champagne glasses and broken resolutions. But the gifts remain. In honor of the tie you’re returning and the books that you aren’t, here are some of the most memorable holiday gifts in fiction: […]