Rapunzel

Adapted and Illustrated by Paul O. Zelinsky

Bibliographic data

Zelinsky, Paul O. 1997. Rapunzel. New York: Dutton Children’s Books.

ISBN 0525456074

Plot Summary

This is a story of a girl named Rapunzel, who had long beautiful hair. She is raised by a sorceress in a high tower that contains no doors. The only way up or down is by saying “Rapunzel, Rapunzel, let down your hair.” Along comes a Prince who falls in love with Rapunzel. When the sorceress finds out about Rapunzel’s betrayal, she sends her far away from the Prince. To find out if they live happily ever after you will have to read the story.

Critical Analysis

Not only is this story beautifully written, but Zelinsky’s illustrations are phenomenal. All of his illustrations are very precise and life-like. I can envision these illustrations being displayed in a museum.

Every illustration has so many pieces that would take a reader several readings to really see every item. Zelinsky seems to have a fondness for animals and creatures. On almost every page he has added an insect or animal to the scenery. Two animals that occur multiple times are a cat and a male peacock. The detail of the peacock’s feathers is remarkable. The cat seems to be a pet of Rapunzel because it is drawn in many scenes with Rapunzel.

The first illustration of the sorceress’s garden really caught my eye. Every tree, bush, statue, and grass has their own shape and style. It reminds me of a garden you would see at a palace or castle. I also found it amusing how Zelinsky strategically places the animals in the garden. There looks to be a large type of lizard on the grounds, a bird in a tree, a peacock hidden within the plants, and a creature that looks like a monkey hidden in a tree. A reader would miss seeing these if they were just focusing on the text and not really taking the time to view and analyze the scene.

The colors throughout the book are bold and subtle at the same time. Unlike some books, Zelinsky provides a lot of detail in his character’s facial expressions. This allows the reader to really see what the character is feeling. Just like many of the favorite fairy tales, this story shares a happy ending that everyone will enjoy.

At the end of the book Zelinsky provides a history behind the story of “Rapunzel.” It is an interesting and educational piece of the historical aspects that led Zelinsky to his adaptation. This is a true classic book and story that should be appreciated for a lifetime.

Review Excerpts

 v 1998 Caldecott Medal Winner

 v ALA notable Children’s Books 1998

 v “Simply put, this is a gorgeous book; it demonstrates respect for the traditions of painting and the fairy tale while at the same time adhering to a singular, wholly original, artistic vision.” Horn Book, starred review

 v “A breathtaking interpretation gives the fairy tale new art-historical roots, with illustrations that daringly- and effectively- mimic the masters of Italian Renaissance painting.” Publishers Weekly

 v Kirkus Reviews called the art “grandly evocative, composed and executed with superb technical and emotional command.”

Connections

 v Have students act out the story.

 v Compare and contrast other versions of the Rapunzel story.

 v List good and bad qualities of the sorceress.