The Twelve Dancing Princesses (Marianna Mayer telling with Kinuko Y. Craft illustrations)
The Twelve Dancing Princesses is my very most favorite fairy tale EVER. I fell in love with it as a young child, when my mom would read it to me. I couldn’t get enough of the enchantments and the princesses’ predicament. Though I heard it, and later read it, hundreds of times, the magic never wore off. To this day, I still find myself trying to figure out a way out for the princesses.
This particular version is the very best that I’ve seen so far. It’s not a retelling, just a WAY more beautifully illustrated version than previously existed.
It’s GORGEOUS.
Seriously. I have a taste for fine art (was an art history major for a time) and I recognize elements of good art easily.
This book is good art. In fact, it’s one of the most visually stunning books I’ve ever seen. It’s worth the price of the book just for the illustrations. Believe me.
Now I realize that I’m going on and on about pictures. But really, that’s what makes this particular version special. Anyone can print the Grimms’ tale out, but could anyone else illustrate it this fabulously?
I doubt it.
Craft is a master of her craft (pun intended). If you’re not familiar with her work, get out there and check it out. She’s done illustrations of many fairy tales and they’re all completely gorgeous. You can also check her out at her website: http://www.kycraft.com/
It’s worth your time, I promise.
And while you’re at it, pick up a copy of The Twelve Dancing Princesses and immerse yourself in some real fairy tale magic.
The Twelve Dancing Princesses is my very most favorite fairy tale EVER. I fell in love with it as a young child, when my mom would read it to me. I couldn’t get enough of the enchantments and the princesses’ predicament. Though I heard it, and later read it, hundreds of times, the magic never wore off. To this day, I still find myself trying to figure out a way out for the princesses.
This particular version is the very best that I’ve seen so far. It’s not a retelling, just a WAY more beautifully illustrated version than previously existed.
It’s GORGEOUS.
Seriously. I have a taste for fine art (was an art history major for a time) and I recognize elements of good art easily.
This book is good art. In fact, it’s one of the most visually stunning books I’ve ever seen. It’s worth the price of the book just for the illustrations. Believe me.
Now I realize that I’m going on and on about pictures. But really, that’s what makes this particular version special. Anyone can print the Grimms’ tale out, but could anyone else illustrate it this fabulously?
I doubt it.
Craft is a master of her craft (pun intended). If you’re not familiar with her work, get out there and check it out. She’s done illustrations of many fairy tales and they’re all completely gorgeous. You can also check her out at her website: http://www.kycraft.com/
It’s worth your time, I promise.
And while you’re at it, pick up a copy of The Twelve Dancing Princesses and immerse yourself in some real fairy tale magic.
~ Ems
Thanks, Ems! You can check out another of Ems guest posts, a review of Princess of Glass (involving 1 of the Dancing Princesses from Princess of the Midnight Ball) over at Ashley's blog right now!
Thanks Misty! I may just go and do this...take a look for the book. I have a love for fine art and art history. Major love in college.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the review!
R
Now I want to read this one too :)
ReplyDeleteOh gosh! I haven't thought of The 12 Dancing Princesses in a while. I loved, loved, loved this book growing up. What a beautiful illustration.
ReplyDeleteI thought the same, What a beautiful illustration! =)
ReplyDeleteThe Twelve Dancing Princesses is one of my favorite tale and the galery of her website are amazing!!!
ReplyDelete