The Nutcracker

Janet Collins is a freelance writer in Sechelt, British Columbia.

Attending a performance of The Nutcracker during the Christmas season
has become a tradition in many Canadian families. This beautiful picture
book will enhance the anticipation and appreciation of children and
adults attending this special event. Unlike the live performance,
however, the book includes a lot of conversation that helps move the
story along. Karen Kain, former principal ballerina with the National
Ballet of Canada, retells the story based on artistic director James
Kudelka’s National Ballet of Canada production of The Nutcracker. In
Kudelka’s version, the setting is 19th-century Russia. After young
Marie receives a wooden nutcracker from strange old Uncle Nikolai, she
and her brother Misha head off to bed, only to sleep fitfully. In one
bad dream, the siblings join forces and conquer an army that might harm
the nutcracker. They are rewarded by entering the realm of the Snow
Queen for a wonder-filled night.

The magic of the much-loved tale is evident in the beautifully rendered
illustrations by Rajka Kupesic, who is herself a ballet dancer. Unlike
the darker tones that underline the popular costumes, set, and companion
book by Maurice Sendak, Kupesic’s vision is rich in old-world charm
that is a perfect match for this version of the tale. Recommended.