Hot new illustrator Ibatoulline (Signs for Sale, p. 579, etc.) exchanges sentimental, Norman Rockwell–like realism for elaborate chinoiserie to go with a gently massaged version of Andersen’s popular tale. Mitchell leaves the original, with its satiric views of court life and the contrasting tenderness of the relationship between Emperor and avian mentor, intact, adding an occasional bit of amusing officiousness and loosening up stiff dialogue. Ibatoulline passes up the fun-poking in favor of richly decorated scenes filled with brightly patterned clothing, ornate architecture, and finely detailed scenery—plus enough individualism in gestures and facial expressions to avoid becoming generic. Editions of Nightingale abound, but this makes a sumptuous, readable alternative that is true to its original. (afterword) (Picture book. 7-10)
