THE CRAB PRINCE

A lively retelling of a rather long Italian story that has several familiar elements. Dissatisfied with her many suitors, Rosella (a lovely peasant girl) makes friends with a giant crab in the village well. One day, curious, she follows him into the well, diving through ancient ruins to find him in his true manly form, dining with the ``ghula'' (a witch-like crone) who has enchanted him. Only the ghula's magical fish can break the enchantment; Rosella pursues the ghula over and under a stormy sea, captures the fish, and transforms her lover—who turns out, of course, to be a prince. Manson's well-paced text has an entertainingly cheery tone that recommends it for sharing aloud; his illustrations are boldly drawn and dramatic, a bit sturdy- looking close up (not inappropriate for the plucky Rosella) but perfect for a group. (Folklore/Picture book. 5-10)