Rapunzel [Paperback]

 

 

Create your own review

Paul Zelinsky has combined three versions of the centuries-old folktale, Rapunzel and added some unique features to create a fresh retelling of the tale. The author's brilliant renaissance-styled oil paintings bring the words to life. Zelinsky has created a work of art both textually and visually. At the end of the book, Zelinsky includes a brief epilogue to give the reader some extra insight into his version of the book. What I found most interesting is the history of Rapunzel. Before it was published in the Brothers Grimm's Children's and Household Tales, 1821, it was published in two other books of tales: an Italian one in 1697 and a French one in 1790. However, Rapunzel is commonly thought to have originated as a German folktale simply because the Grimms printed in their book that it was "undoubtedly derived from an oral tale." Zelinsky also explains that for his retelling, he has pulled from all three versions. Although this book is different from the Rapunzel with which I am familiar, his version is very ingenious. He has brought together the happiest, saddest and most magical aspects of the different versions to create an even more poignant and meaningful story than before. For example, Zelinsky refers to the antagonist as a sorceress instead of witch. He also portrays her as a mother figure through his illustrations. She has a very grandmotherly appearance and on several of the pages she appears kind and doting. Rapunzel's calling her "stepmother" also shows this. All these things put a new spin on why Rapunzel is locked in the tower. Now it appears to be a mother's attempt to protect her child from the real world and to prevent her from growing up. Zelinsky's artwork makes this version of Rapunzel especially dazzling. He has chosen to set the story in Italy, possibly its country of origin, and to paint in the style of the Renaissance, which was also born in Italy. Because this is a fairytale that has been told and retold, illustrations are what really bring the new life to the book. This is especially true in the case of fairytales and folktales because these stories have been told and retold. Illustrations provide the means for bringing new life to them. One example is that of the sorceress mentioned before. Another example is Zelinsky's portrayal of Rapunzel's long hair. Even on the front cover, you can see how Rapunzels's hair envelops her and lies in folds over her arms. In another picture, you see Rapunzel's hair hanging down the entire height of the tower, which rises high above the trees. Zelinsky provides ample visual evidence to show how long Rapunzel's hair is. Each of Zelinsky's pictures is a masterpiece. He has successfully recreated the style of Renaissance artwork in a number of ways. For instance, he relies heavily on a primary color palette and uses a linear technique like Raphael and Caravaggio. In addition, he is adept at using colors to show light and shadows. The detail on the small items, like clothing, the walls, and the curtains, is quite exquisite. It is also interesting to note that Zelinsky has borrowed from Jan Van Eyck the technique of showing a room reflected accurately in a mirror. Zelinsky's Rapunzel is a wonderful retelling with stunning illustrations. After reading and critiquing this book, I am interested in reading Zelinsky's other works

My six year old daughter loves this romantic tale of love conquering all. The gorgeous pictures add to the enchantment. Look closely for the grey cat! I do not think that this story is age-inappropriate: adults get married and have babies all the time where I come from. Even six year olds seem to understand that. My only qualm is that the witch is a bit scary looking, especially when she is cutting off Rapunzel's hair. But that little fright seems to add to the tale, because when it all works out in the end, it is that much more sweet. I hope that Mr. Zelinski continues to publish his interpretation of ancient fairytales, because I will certainly keep buying them.

I know all the other reviewers have already said this, but I'm going to say it again: The illustrations in this book are simply gorgeous! I am floored that such care and time was taken to paint the pictures for a children's book--most of the artwork looks like it should be hanging in the renaissance section of a major art gallery. Beautiful!

As for the story, it's one of the better retellings of Rapunzel--not whitewashed like the terrible Barbie version that came out a few years ago! My 6-year old daughter loves this book, and so do I. (Just a note, that yes Rapunzel does get pregnant in the story but only after she and the Prince had a secret wedding ceremony).

Share your thoughts with other customers: Create your own review

› See all 26 customer reviews on Amazon.ca

 

4.0 out of 5 stars Provacative story line with beautiful illustrations.
"Rapunzel" retold and illustrated Paul O. Zelisky is a version of the fairytale more closely relating to its original form dating back to 1635 called "Petrosinella". Read more

Published on April 27 2004 by Christina

5.0 out of 5 stars The rare non-Disneyfied fairy tale
The winner of the Caldecott Medal, "Rapunzel" is one of the most lush and beautiful stories ever created for children. Read more

Published on Dec 5 2003 by E. R. Bird

5.0 out of 5 stars Gorgeous book
This book has a great story, but above all: the illustrations are AMAZING. They are like oil paintings, full of colour and detail. Read more

Published on Mar 3 2003 by violet

5.0 out of 5 stars Beautiful, beautiful book
Excellent book for a young reader. The story is nicely told, and the many full-page illustrations are richly detailed and embrace both the gothic romanticism of the Grimms'... Read more

Published on Jan 2 2003 by Ronald Scheer

5.0 out of 5 stars A wonderful retelling with masterful illustrations
Paul Zelinsky is not only an extraordinarily talented artist--he trusts his readers. Zelinsky doesn't shy away from the grimness in this Grimm tale, and lets us see Rapunzel's... Read more

Published on May 5 2002 by Catherine S. Vodrey

5.0 out of 5 stars A true Caldecott winner
Of course, I have to comment on the illustration. Really really detailed. You could almost separate each leave on each tree. Read more

Published on Nov 18 2001 by silvertenshi

5.0 out of 5 stars No other description - Gorgeous!
This past weekend, our 3-1/2 year old daughter's grandparents came into town. Her Nonna told her a bedtime story about Rapunzel, a story she had not heard before. Read more

Published on Nov 12 2001 by Todd Ihrig

5.0 out of 5 stars Amazing book
I am in 8th grade, and first read this book in about 4th or 5th grade. I loved it so much. The pictures are spectacular. Read more

Published on Nov 3 2001

5.0 out of 5 stars A moving story, beautifully illustrated
I first encountered this exquisite book when it was featured at a book store's children's story hour. Read more

Published on Aug 5 2001 by slomamma

4.0 out of 5 stars No wonder it won a Caldecott!
These pictures are so gorgeous I made one my screen wallpaper. I'd like to frame them and put them on my wall but don't want to damage the beautiful book. Read more

Published on Nov 29 2000 by MLPlayfair

Search Customer Reviews
Only search this product's reviews

› See all 26 customer reviews on Amazon.ca

Search Listmania!