Helpful elves reward a virtuous shoemaker in a large-format retelling with "exceptional" pictures; "Watts's warm, luminous illustrations provide the perfect counterpart to Tolstoy's lovely, mystical story," praised PW. Ages 5-8. (Sept.)

PreS-Gr 2-Smoothly and competently written, this is a straightforward retelling of the familiar tale of a poor craftsman and his wife who are aided by two selfless elves. The illustrations, inspired by towns in southern Switzerland and Florence, Italy, are pastel in tone, with carefully added details. Outdoor scenes show a bustling waterside village, and indoor scenes are decorated with patterned curtains, tiles, and plates. The attention to detail extends to the endpapers, which feature elaborate shoes. One or both elves are hidden on each double-page spread, and children will enjoy searching for them. A good choice as a read-aloud or read-alone.-Donna L. Scanlon, Lancaster County Library, PA