The Snow Queen: A Retelling of the Fairy Tale

Gr 3–5—Andersen's tale has been considerably abridged to fit into a picture-book format, and the most obvious references to Christianity have been removed. The retelling still emphasizes the struggle between good and evil, as it relates Gerda's quest to rescue her friend Kai from the clutches of the Snow Queen. Ibatoulline's sumptuous paintings perfectly capture the tale's high drama. Appropriately, the first glimpse of the two friends is from the snowy rooftops of their town, though they're snug and warm indoors. Then a splinter from the evil troll's mirror enters the room on a gust of wind, and Kai's heart is pierced. The dramatic moment is seen from above as a whirl of white invades the room. The next scene finds Kai, scared yet stubbornly clinging to his sled as the Snow Queen's sleigh whisks him away into the night. As Kai falls under her enchantment, the story turns to Gerda and her efforts to bring him back. The gentle, wistful child's strength lies in her certitude and innocent love, and she wins over everyone she meets. Whether it's in his meticulously crafted landscapes or in the emotive faces of his characters, Ibatoulline's paintings are eye-catching and memorable. Another outstanding version of a classic story.—Marilyn Taniguchi, Beverly Hills Public Library, CA