Hank and Gertie: A Pioneer Hansel and Gretel Story [Hardcover]

From award-winning author Eric A. Kimmel with gorgeous, brightly patterned illustrations from artist Mara Penny,Hank and Gertiebrings a modern twist to the classic Hansel and Gretel folktale combined with the high-adventure landscape of the Oregon Trail.

While taking a break from their journey out west, Hank and Gertie lose their way back to their covered wagon and stumble upon the most glorious house made of candy. Little do they know theres a dangerous witch lurking nearby, and shes got her eye on the two hungry and vulnerable children.

Penny beautifully illustrates this story in a dusty palette . . . a closing authors note gives insight into how Kimmel reconfigured the story for the Oregon Trail setting, which makes the book appropriate for classroom discussions. Overall, this is a gentle, familiar read that isnt too dark and scary. Bringing a wonderfully entertaining and modern interpretation of a classic children's fairytale, it is wholeheartedly and unreservedly recommended for family, elementary school, and community library picture book collections.

Hank and Gertie is obviously the old story of Hansel and Gretel, moved from the forests of Germany to high desert country of Oregon and Idaho on the Oregon Trail. Like the pioneers on the Oregon Trail, folktales also travel long distances. The same stories can be found on different continents. There are over 700 versions of Cinderella appearing in cultures all over the world.

One challenge I enjoy as a writer is moving a familiar story to a different setting to see what happens. What sort of witch would make her home along the Oregon Trail? What kind of house would she live in? How would she get around? What would she feed Hank to fatten him up? What would she do about Gertie? How would Hank and Gertie get back to the wagon train?

Retelling an old tale is more than just changing a few details. You have to rethink the entire story.

Traveling along the Oregon Tral£Ý