Jack and the Beanstalk

A vividly illustrated version of a classic English fairy tale. Howe, who recently produced a version of Rip Van Winkle , is a better illustrator than he is a writer, and yet his paintings here are so arresting that the text's deficiencies are easy to ignore. The book unfolds in a series of dramatic two-page spreads. The text, set off in a box, often includes an additional illustration that directly relates to the action. Most impressive in these detailed full-color paintings are the varying visual perspectives that underscore the twists of the familiar tale, and admirably communicate the magic of the beans, the hen, the gold and the singing harp. Jack's beanstalk fairly towers over clouds and countryside, the castle is cold and forbidding, and the terrifying giant looms over the frightened, hidden Jack. Ages 4-8. (Sept.)