From Publishers Weekly
"Richly patterned illustrations," "fairy-tale vocabulary" and "graceful prose" distinguish this retelling of a classic Russian folktale, said PW . Ages 5-9.
Copyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From School Library Journal
Kindergarten-Grade 4-- A stately and colorful version of a well-known Russian folktale. After his two older brothers are given ships and sent to seek their fortunes by trading, Ivan the Fool pleads with his father to give him a ship as well. Blown off course by a storm, he accidently discovers a mountain made of salt. This discovery insures him riches, the hand of the tsar's daughter, and triumph over his jealous brothers. The story closely follows the version collected and popularized by Alexander Afanasev. Langton's complex retelling emphasizes the resourcefulness of Ivan and the exotic settings of old Russia. Executed in colored pencil on what appears to be white illustration board, Ilse Plume's full-page illustrations feature bright colors, decorative hand-drawn borders, and a slightly grainy texture. In both color and softness, they are somewhat reminiscent of the d'Aulaires work. Although the human faces and figures are awkwardly handled, Plume is adept at turning waves, leaves, clouds, and fabric into stylized shapes that nicely complement the text. The somewhat lengthy text combines with the detail of the illustrations, making this a good choice for independent reading. While it doesn't erase memories of Harve and Margot Zemachs' splendid picture book of the same name (Follett, 1965), this is a noteworthy interpretation of an important folktale. --Denise Anton Wright, Illinois State University, Normal
Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.
--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
