The Nutcracker [With CD]

Christmas just isn't Christmas without The Nutcracker This beautiful book, which includes a fully orchestrated CD of the score, invites children to dance, prance, and relive the ballet long after the tree comes down.

Peter Malone's exquisite illustrations capture all the magic of The Nutcracker's most memorable scenes: the Christmas Eve party, Godfather Drosselmeyer's spellbinding visit, and the ferocious battle between the Mouse King and the Nutcracker. Marie's journey to the Land of Sweets, where the Sugar Plum Fairy welcomes her with exuberant dancers from around the globe--and toothsome desserts--springs to life as never before.

Stephanie Spinner's lyrical text, Peter Malone's jewel-like artwork, and a sparkling performance of Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky's unforgettable music make this a gift to inspire even the very youngest dancer.

Author: Stephanie Spinner
Publisher: Alfred A. Knopf Books for Young Readers
Published: 10/14/2008
Pages: 40
Binding Type: Hardcover
Weight: 0.84lbs
Size: 8.28h x 10.42w x 0.48d
ISBN: 9780375844645
Audience: Ages 4-8

Accelerated Reader:
Reading Level: 5.5
Point Value: 0.5
Interest Level: Lower Grade
Quiz #/Name: 126237 / Nutcracker


Review Citation(s):
School Library Journal 10/01/2008 pg. 98
Kirkus Review - Children 11/01/2008 pg. 1165
Horn Book Magazine 11/01/2008 pg. 653
Kirkus Reviews 11/01/2008
Hornbook Guide to Children 01/01/2009 - Superior,Well Above Average

About the Author
Stephanie Spinner is the author of many highly praised children's books ranging from the picture books Alex the Parrot and It's a Miracle! A Hanukkah Storybook and the Step-Up Classic Dracula to the middle-grade novel Aliens for Breakfast, and Quiver and Quicksilver, young adult retellings of myths.

Peter Malone has illustrated such classical works as Peter and the Wolf, The Magic Flute, At the Opera, The World of King Arthur and His Court, and The Adventures of Odysseus. His illustrations have appeared in the New Yorker and on British Royal Mail stamps.