The Twelve Dancing Princesses - (The Ruth Sanderson Collection) by Ruth Sanderson (Hardcover)

About the Book

Originally published: Boston: Little, Brown & Co., 1990.

Book Synopsis

A BEAUTIFUL RETELLING OF THE CLASSIC BROTHERS GRIMM TALE WITH LAVISH FULL-COLOR OIL PAINTINGS. NEW IN PAPERBACK. Ruth Sanderson retells the tale of twelve princesses who dance secretly all night long and how their secret is eventually discovered. Long ago, in the days of princesses, castles, and magic spells, there lived a king and his twelve daughters. Although the king locked the twelve princesses in their bedroom each night, every morning their twelve pairs of dancing shoes were found to be worn quite through, as if they had been danced in all night long! The king proclaimed that anyone who discovered the secret of the worn-out shoes could marry the princess of his choice. Here is the enchanting story of how the mystery was finally solved...

Review Quotes

"Sanderson's retelling of this classic tale from the Brothers Grimm is enthralling, and the muted elegance of her oil paintings captures the romance and magic of this well-known fairy tale."

"Sanderson's stately composition and sure hand with face and figure"create scenes so real that viewers begin to wonder why they are unable to hear the music and laughter."

"The illustrations capture the story's magic and romance...."

"This is a handsome piece... Sanderson's princesses are approachable - their youthful vitality in face and movement contrasts effectively with the rich period costumes"

About the Author

Ruth Sanderson is the renowned illustrator and author of over 80 books for children. Her fairy tale retellings have been widely praised and much loved by children everywhere. Her original fairy tale, The Enchanted Wood, won both the Young Hoosier Award and the Bank Street College Award. The Texas Bluebonnet Award was given to her retelling of The Golden Mare, the Firebird, and the Magic Ring. Her beautiful and ornate version of the classic fable Goldilocks is the latest addition to the collection.