A classic tale of friendship, Andersen’s The Snow Queen is retold here by Toronto librarian and storyteller Ken Setterington, and illustrated with filigree cut-paper art (scherenschnitt) by Nelly and Ernst Hofer. The result is a lovely book, a resonant quest story that can be read aloud to the young and appreciated by anyone with a liking for fantastic journeys, happy endings, and the humorous voice of the storyteller.

In condensing Andersen’s lengthy tale of Gerda’s search for the queen’s icy palace where her friend Kay is captive, Setterington retains all the significant characters and episodes. Vivid and scary details are preserved, as in Gerda’s encounter with the little robber girl and her sharp dagger. Sharper cuts between the sections intensify the dreamlike, episodic quality of the journey. For the most part, this retelling retains the flavour of Andersen’s style, with lively dialogue and contemporary phrasing such as “was it ever hot!” and Kay’s taunt, “and you can’t come.” Setterington has omitted the specifically Christian content of Andersen’s original, keeping only a generalized reference to Gerda’s prayers and the essential element of her selfless love for Kay. He also downplays Andersen’s allegory and sentimentality, leaving interpretation more up to the reader.

The intricate cut-paper art of the Hofers, previously seen in Silent Night, enhances both the fairy tale atmosphere and the icy setting. The skill and sophistication of their designs are concealed in the apparent simplicity of this traditional art form. This is a beautifully produced book whose value will only increase with time and familiarity.