The classic fairy-tale of the beautiful young princess Snow White, with her skin as white as snow, hair as black as ebony and lips as red as blood, is retold in this lovely picture-book and paired with the gorgeous watercolor artwork of Japanese artist Chihiro Iwasaki. Translated by Anthea Bell, the story follows the familiar lines, as Snow White flees into the forest, following her wicked stepmother's attempt to have her killed, and finds refuge at the home of the seven dwarves. Still not safe, she must endure two more assassination attempts by her stepmother, the latter of which seems to succeed. Seemingly dead, Snow White is placed in a glass coffin by the grieving dwarves, until a prince happens along and falls in love with her...

I have read and enjoyed a number of picture-book retellings of western folk and fairy-tales illustrated by Iwasaki, from The Little Mermaid to The Red Shoes, so I was eager to get to this presentation of Snow White and the Seven Dwarves. I love Iwasaki's artwork, which always features a subtle, lovely color palette, and an enchanting sense of movement. This was no different, and I greatly enjoyed poring over the pages. It was an interesting choice to depict Snow White herself almost completely through ink lines and white space. The dwarves themselves were more colorful, with their black leggings and purple tunics, and were adorable, more sprightly than the more traditional plump examples of their kind. Highly recommended, both to readers who enjoy folk and fairy-tales, and to fellow fans of Iwasaki's work. ( )

Chihiro's art is simple, elegant and effective. I enjoyed this one for the reason that it was different from the highly rendered art usually accompanying fairy tale picture books. It was also refreshing to se a Western story done in Japanese style art, adding a universality to Snow Whites journey. I am also a sucker for pretty watercolors.

(Review and rating are of the art, not story, the story is not altered from the Grimm version.) ( )