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bluestjuice's review against another edition
3.0
More or less a graphic novel, this slim volume juxtaposes a series of black-and-white illustrations by Lorenzo Mattotti with the classic Grimm's tale of Hansel and Gretel, re-told (but not much changed) by Neil Gaiman. For readers familiar with Gaiman's breadth of work it seems guaranteed to be something of a disappointment: it's savage and creepy, treading unflinchingly into the dark psychological realm where fairy tales originate, but it isn't really terribly original. It is like the sketch of something that could have been worked up into a more complete, more detailed picture, but the bits that are unique to this telling are only brief snippets and don't develop the story in a substantial way. Much of the artwork is very attractive and it's definitely all ominous, and it's a good, disturbing story! I just didn't think there was enough here to make this version very special.
erincataldi's review against another edition
2.0
I think I was expecting a little MORE, but then again, this is a kid's book. Pages alternate between spine tingly black and white illustrations and Neil Gaiman's version of Hansel and Gretel. He doesn't add any new twists or tricks to the story, it's the classic Grimm version we all grew up with. That being said it's still a great read for children who are interested in folk tales. This isn't necessarily anything to write home about, the illustrations are good, the story is good, but it's nothing new or exciting. In the back of the book there is a brief blurb on the oral and written history of Hansel and Gretel with a little bibliography. Alright, but not amazing.
casihamilton's review against another edition
3.0
I'm not entirely sure what all the fuss was about this art, which I found to be very uninspiring. I will say that the simple change to the story Gaiman makes, that of never calling the old woman a witch, certainly makes for a much darker read of this already disturbing tale.
heidisreads's review against another edition
4.0
Superb storytelling - incredible illustrations. For adults and children.
katzreads's review against another edition
4.0
I enjoyed reading this retelling of Hansel and Gretel. The artwork was striking and stark. I most enjoyed the notes by the author and artist! This was a Christmas gift that I will pass along to Lynda.
rafacolog's review against another edition
adventurous
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
3.0
Content Warnings
Moderate: Child abuse, Cannibalism, and Death
hmbb99's review against another edition
3.0
Hansel and Gretel by Neil Gaiman and Lorenzo Mattotti is a darker illustrated version of the classic fairy tale. The basic plot of the story did not change much from the original Grim tale. Unfortunately I couldn't enjoy the illustrations because they didn't format properly in my Kindle app and they were incredibly dark. I would be interested in viewing them in the actual graphic novel.
I did enjoy the story in all its grimness. It was a short quick read brought to life by Gaiman. Thank you to Netgalley and TOON books for the advanced copy. The opinions are my own.
I did enjoy the story in all its grimness. It was a short quick read brought to life by Gaiman. Thank you to Netgalley and TOON books for the advanced copy. The opinions are my own.
scarletohhara's review against another edition
3.0
Good narration. I wasn't moved by the drawings, but it a good read.