The Glassblower's Children

I must admit I purchased this little book for 2 reasons. One, being an artist myself, I was attracted to the "scratchboard" illustrations of Ms. Gripes husband, Harald Gripe. The art of using a scratchboard technique is special and blends itself to the mysteries of the story as written by its author. I'm only sorry, I can't find more about Mr. Gripe and his most illustrative way of creating the visuals held within.As for my 2nd reason in purchasing this book might be a little odd...I've delved into many novels over the years, the Burkeish style of novel in my favorite reading chair as well as other well known authors that wandered through my grey matter days after the novel was set aside. The small write-up presented by the Amazon Dot/Com Nation on "Glassblower" for hype gave me the idea of perhaps reading something that did not favor the smidgins (..."smidgins"...I''m kind using that word for some of the modern authors) of explicit words to sell the written scene made sense. Now, my wife and I don't have any grandchildren, so I thought that just this story along with the illustrations would be a nice way of relaxing and and catching a different author. Yes, its a children's story...so whats wrong with having a little child in me to discover and enjoy this book?At times, I questioned the slow pace of the story, however this was all translated for the English market...I'm not disappointed, I'm only amazed of the story written along with the scratchboard illustrations...Fun book for me:)

I read this and then sent it along to my niece and nephew.

The fairy tale is on the dark, kinda-creepy side of things, but it is impossible not to finish. It is one of those so-called children's stories that is actually more suited for adults due to the vocabulary and the atmosphere. Also, this particular edition is beautiful. This is my 3rd purchase from The New York Review Children's Collection. These are books that are collectibles. I plan on adding to my collection of these.

This was one of my favourite stories as a child. It was my sister's book, so I could only borrow it now and then. I looked for a copy for years but couldn't find it anywhere. I'm so glad to finally be reunited with this wonderful tale. It's as good as I remember, slightly macabre but all fairy tales have a bit of darkness in them. What I remembered most was the descriptions of light and hope throughout the story.

A wonderful fairy tale. I don't believe it's too scary for children.

Great condition. Excellent book!

Beautiful, unusual fairy tale.

A book I will read again because there are layers of meaning. Luckily it’s not a long book and a reread is very doable.

This book haunted me as a child and I never forgot it. I have looked for it many times and purchased it recently now it is reprinted. It is a tale with darkness but ultimately it is a story of choices, heart desires and simple truths of family love.

Absolutely beautiful story! Loved it!

I want to read it on my own tablet but need to download it more from the computer. Not finished.

Arrived promptly, item as described.

Tb