From School Library Journal
Grade 2-5-- Accomplished illustrations and a faithful retelling bring one of Russia's best-known folk legends to life. Gal has individualized his version of the story with evocative language and flowing imagery. Using a blend of watercolor, colored pencil, and chalk pastels, he has fashioned a lush dreamlike world based in the reality of Old Russia. In this world, striking landscapes and menacing woods provide the backdrop for Prince Ivan's adventures. Gal seems to be most comfortable in his stylized de: pictions of architecture, interiors, and costumes; his humans and animals are often stilted and marred by inconsistencies of scale. Also, set against the textured background of the paintings, the rather lengthy text is cramped and, at times, difficult to read. But overall, the colorful and radiant paintings convey the splendor and power of traditional Russian folklore. Whether read independently or shared aloud with older audiences, this interpretation deserves a place in most collections. --Denise Anton Wright, Illinois State University, Normal
Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.
