The hardcover has light to minimal wear to the corners and edges. The binding is tight and pages are clean, no underlining, highlighting, or writing. ***Check out my shop for more books! Synopsis | With echoes of "Hansel and Gretel," this is one of those gruesome Grimms' fairy tales told without any contemporary revision. The cruel stepmother drives out Little Brother and Little Sister and pursues them with ferocity. She distorts nature and transforms Little Brother into a deer. Little Sister never deserts her brother, but when she marries the king, the cruel stepmother substitutes her own ugly, one-eyed daughter for the bride. In the end, the witch and her daughter get their punishment in burning flames, and order is restored. As always, Anthea Bell's translation is direct and natural, with rhythmic pacing and unforced drama. The gentle illustrations in naive folk art style set the cruelty within an idyllic, even sweet, natural landscape, which reflects Little Sister's steadfast love and loyalty. – From Booklist, Hazel Rochman – Ages 5-8 b-172.6