Synopses & Reviews
An enchanting retelling of a treasured classic.
The Emperor of China lives in the most marvelous palace in the world, made entirely of porcelain, and his garden is full of the rarest flowers. But loveliest of all so say visitors to his realm is the song of the nightingale in the forest by the sea. Though his bustling courtiers can't find her, a clever kitchen maid can, and the nightingale soon enchants the Emperor with her song. But will the gift of a bejeweled bird with a mechanical tune replace the humble nightingale in his heart?
Warmly and accessibly retold by master translator Stephen Mitchell,
this definitive edition features breathtakingly intricate artwork by Bagram Ibatoulline, illustrator of Crossing.
Graceful and full of rich humor, Stephen Mitchells retelling of Hans Christian Andersen's The Nightingale is paired with impeccably researched, astonishingly beautiful paintings by Bagram Ibatoulline.
About the Author
Stephen Mitchell is a widely renowned writer, translator, and anthologist. His thirty books for adults and children include translations of Jesus, Rilke, Genesis, and Job, and his version of the TAO TE CHING has sold more than half a million copies. Of this retelling of Hans Christian Andersens famous tale, he says, "THE NIGHTINGALE is one of the most charming stories ever written. I have tried to make my version light, clear, swift, and funny." This is Stephen Mitchells first book with Candlewick Press.
Bagram Ibatoulline (pronounced Ebattoo-LEEN) was born in Russia
and graduated from the State Academic Institute of Arts in Moscow. He is the illustrator of the acclaimed CROSSING, a picture book edition of a vintage poem by Philip Booth, and has worked in the fields of fine arts, graphic arts, mural design, and textile design. He says of THE NIGHTINGALE, "It has always been one of my favorite stories. While illustrating the book, I paid close attention to the tales delicate story line and tried to portray its nature."