Customer Reviews
Over the Top? - By: Humpty Dumpty, 30 Apr 2008 
I agree with earlier reviewers that there is room to wonder for whom this book is intended, adults or children. The story is very slight , & the question arises whether it is adorned or swamped by the otiose, High Renaissance illustrations from Florence or Siena. In either case there is a striking disparity between simple story & and elaborate visuals that suggests coffee book rather than children's story, museum of book illustration through the ages rather than kitchen or book box.
Those above who worry about the pregnancy of Rapunzel & horror! that she's a single parent do protest too much. The text clearly states she & her beau were "married" (though where are priest, ring & bridesmaids?) so we can all relax......
A beautifully research presentation of this famous tale. - By: , 02 Jun 1999 
This is a retelling of the famous children's fairy tale, probably first presentedin 1634, of a young woman with exceptionally long hair who is kept prisonerin a tall tower by a sorceress. The book, beautifully illustrated by Zelinsky (who attempted to follow the styles of 17th century art) won the 1998 Caldecott Medal for best illustrationsin a children's book. Zelinsky also did considerable research to retell this story as close as possible to the original sources, including those of the Grimm brothers. However, I'm not sure how much a little child will really enjoy this book. It is gorgeous. But, it is not the type of book that a child would readily pick up to read. (In addition, some of the details obtained by Zelinsky's research may not be appropriate for young children.) In my opinion, it is the children's equivalent of a "coffee-table" book! Or, it is a book for adults to really enjoy. In my mind, the Caldecott voters were mistaken here. The illustrations are superb but the book is best appreciated by a different audience or readership. This is the reason I awarded the book only three stars.
A lovely story, and a lovely book - By: , 29 Mar 1999 
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 & 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 outin 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.
Age-inappropriate text with beautiful illustrations - By: , 26 Feb 1999 A beautifully illustrated book with unfortunately a very inappropriate interpretation of a fabulous fairy tale. Rapunzel becomes impregnated by her prince while she is still imprisonedin her tower. The witch recognizes this because her clothes become to tight & Rapunzel is cast out. She gives birth & raises the twins by herself until her prince finds her. It seems so unnecessary for this sweet love story to be about sex. This book is recommended for young children. A fairy tale does not need to be about sex, teen pregnancy & children. I am sorry I purchased this book for my four year old, she loves the book (most likely the illustrations) but I am afraid of all the curious questions I am sure to receive.
Sucrose Overdose - By: , 12 Jul 1998 Zelinsky gives this classic tale an incredibly romantic treatment, which will make you wonder if he forgot his target audience. Understandably, we adults love it, which is why it won the Caldecott & why you'll buy it. Still, its engine is an age-inappropriate message that romantic love conquers all.
