Rapunzel

Title: Rapunzel
By: Paul Zelinsky

Summary: This classic fairytale redone, depicts the story of a beautiful girl who is locked away in a tower by an evil witch. She is forced to remain there until a young prince comes by and vows to free her.

Opinion: Upon a thorough read and deep reflection on the story, I cannot believe how ridiculous fairy tales can be. First off, the parents of Rupenzel make a deal with the witch to just give her away on her birth, just to satisfy Rupunzel's mom's pregnant cravings. I hear that those cravings can be outrageous, but I doubt any good parent would just give away their kid for some good food. (I know my mom wouldn't... or at least I hope so :-).) Second, the idea for a man's perfect woman to be some girl who is locked away at all times appears to fit the old saying, "keep your women barefoot and pregnant". Sad to say that this story seems to reaffirm that model.
With that being said, the illustrations are marvelous. They have such a realistic feel it appears that you are looking at photographs. The prose is also phenomenal making it an easy read for children. It is clear that Zelinsky took one of Grimm's classic tales and adapted it to make it his own.