Hautzig retells the story of The Nutcracker concentrating on the narrative content of the first act. While several picture books and books for older children have presented the ballet with more spirit and grace, the simple vocabulary makes this edition accessible to beginning readers; bright watercolor artwork adds an immediate appeal. Younger children might also prefer this rather childlike version to some of the more sophisticated ones available. Useful to have on hand for the December, preballet demand. (Reviewed Dec. 1, 1992)

These simple retellings are merely adequate introductions to the classic tales. Routine but pleasant illustrations may spark interest.