Andersen’s lengthy, sentimental fairy tale receives respectful treatment in this handsome new edition, which hews closely to the original story. Lewis’s adaptation is vigorous, rendering the tale in a cozily familiar address without losing the stately flavor of the original: “The white cloak and cap were made of snow, and the driver—ah, she was a lady, tall and slender and dazzlingly white!” Birmingham’s paintings, snow- or sun-dappled according to the scene, have a Turner-esque quality that complements the period, presenting round-cheeked children and a soullessly beautiful Snow Queen in both intimate vignettes and expansive double-page spreads. (Illustrated fairy tale. 7-12)
