William Tell
Grade 1 Up-- This version of a time-honored legend goes beyond the memorable incident of the shooting of the apple to the continued conflict with Gessler, who seeks to imprison Tell in an island fortress. That this is a story of a fight for freedom and independence is obvious, but it also has a message about self-confidence that is significant. The illustrations, reminiscent of stained glass windows, medieval manuscripts, and even of such works as the Bayeaux Tapestry, are outstanding in both detail and artistic rendering. Borders that vary from page to page and the use of jewel-like colors and gold highlights will fascinate and captivate viewers. There is little empathy evoked; nor is there an intimacy revealed in the illustrations. This work is more the glorification of an event in history. The text functions primarily as notes to verify and extend portions of the story that might need more embellishment for understanding the deeper meanings. All of the figures depicted are small but highly detailed, particularly the faces, which are carefully individualized. Although this is a legend, it could be placed in art collections because of its beauty and grandeur. --Kay E. Vandergrift, School of Communication, Information and Library Studies, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJCopyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.