IRON HANS

An unattributed translation of one of the Grimms' more enigmatic tales, in a lush edition with imaginative illustrations and intricate borders. As a boy, the prince-protagonist is kidnapped by the strange wild man he's just set free; and though Iron Hans was apparently responsible for the deaths of the king's huntsmen, he thrice forgives his captive when he disobeys orders. Later, when the prince is working as a gardener in another kingdom, Iron Hans provides him with horse, armor, and warriors to save its king in battle; when the king seeks his mysterious savior, Iron Hans again provides princely disguises, but the princess recognizes and agrees to wed the young man—thus setting Iron Hans free from his enchantment. Heyer's art is almost overelaborate; still, it captures the tale's magic and mystery. Young romantics will revel in the princess's fragile loveliness, the medieval pageantry, and the many meticulously rendered details. (Folklore/Picture book. 4-10)