(3) K-3 Illustrated by Kinuko Y. Craft. This lengthy text is a loose retelling of Jeanne-Marie Leprince de Beaumont's version of the classic fairy tale, first published in France in 1756. It is set with large initial letters on most verso pages to give the feeling of an antique volume. Presented in full pages and spreads, the sumptuous, fantastical oil-over-watercolor paintings emphasize Beauty, not the Beast.

Reviewer: Melinda Greenblatt

(3) K-3 Illustrated by Kinuko Y. Craft. This lengthy retelling embellishes the traditional tale, adding a scene in which the twelfth fairy returns to the sleeping castle in a chariot drawn by dragons. Exquisitely detailed illustrations lavish in color and design make this a suitable gift edition. The pictures feature elaborately adorned costumes, an abundance of flowers, and plenty of other details to pore over.

Reviewer: Pamela McCuen

(2) K-3 Illustrated by Kinuko Y. Craft. Events in this elegant retelling are similar to other versions: an elderly couple longing for a child are gifted through magic with a son as big as his father's thumb. Mayer adds a new twist: Tom's greatest triumph is his overcoming a giant who has been plaguing King Arthur's lands. Craft's paintings, at once decorative and interpretive, suit the mood and time. Both words and pictures capture the essence of fairyland.

Reviewer: Mary M. Burns | Horn Book Magazine Issue: September, 2001