The Nutcracker based on the classic story by E. T. A. Hoffman, illustrated by Julie Paschkis

(Suggested reading level: Ages 4-8)

Amber (9) and I read this together again this year. Remember this is based on the story, not the ballet. No sugar plum fairy shows up, there are no dancing snowflakes, but it does come with a CD of selections from Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker performed by the London Symphony Orchestra, which we just started listening to in the car today. The music is beautiful.

The story is familiar to us all. Clara finds a nutcracker under the Christmas tree. She learns how the toy got it’s ugly face and hears the story of it’s feud with the Mouse King. She finds the courage to help the nutcracker and breaks the spell he’s under.

The book is illustrated throughout in the same style as the cover, bright and colorful with just the right amount of detail. The Nutcracker is a holiday tradition and this is a delightful retelling. The story and action grab Amber’s attention every year and the happy ever after ending is perfect. It really is a tale of love and loyalty.

Our copy was given to us as a gift. I am an Amazon associate.

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