Hansel and Gretel

Isadora, R. (2009). Hansel and Gretel. New York, NY: G.P. Putman’s Sons

Brief Annotation: Rachel Isadora retelling of the Brothers Grimm classic Hansel and Gretel is an abridged version. The illustrations set this version apart from others because Isadora uses African inspired art. The story takes place in an African inspired forest. The colors are made up of thick brush strokes, and to portray depth it appears that the images are cutouts. The illustrations in her version are much more graphic and colorful, the witch is gnarly and scary, and the forest is filled with brightly colored animals.

Grade Level: 2-6

Readers who will like this: Readers who enjoy African inspired artwork, and readers who like fast pace stories that still maintain the integrity of the storyline.

Response/Rating (1-4): 4. It is a better book for early readers than the Grimm version because it is shorter and used simpler language. It was also a nice surprise to feel the textures in the paint as I ran my hand across each page. You can almost get lost in some of the pictures because there is so much on each page, I think a young reader would enjoy scanning each picture for new things.

One question you would ask before a read aloud: What do you when you are scared?