Book Review: The Nutcracker

Picture book with story. Some third graders can read it by themselves. "The Nutcracker," from the story by E.T.A. Hoffman. Retold by Jean Richardson. Pictures by Francesca Crespi. A classic Christmas book. The story line is unique. Young Clara's parents are having a Christmas party. Her father's mysterious friend brings Cara a gift. It's a nutcracker in the shape of a soldier. Clara's brother takes it from her, breaking its arm. Her father's friend fixes it with his handkerchief. That night Clara has a strange dream about the nutcracker. In this book the story isn't as good as other books. The pictures are good enough, but not fabulous. My advice, look at several different versions of this story and pick out the one you like best.