Alice (1918-2018) and Martin Provensen (1916-1987) illustrated more than forty books together, nineteen of which they also edited. They were runners-up for the Caldecott Medal in 1982 for their illustrations of Nancy Willard's A Visit to William Blake's Inn and won the Caldecott in 1984 for a book they wrote and illustrated, The Glorious Flight. Eight of their books have been named as New York Times Ten Best Illustrated Books of the Year. They lived for many years in Dutchess County, New York.
Superb, spectacularly detailed, and lovingly designed. -Seven Impossible Things Before Breakfast The voices of these master storytellers are unfailingly distinctive and involving; frequent full-page-plus illustrations in the Provensens' inimitable style provide robust accompaniment. A foreword by Joan Bodger (author of How the Heather Looks) explaining the difference between a literary fairy tale and a folktale is a delightful bonus. -Martha V. Parravano, The Horn Book This title has lost none of its charm. . . Within these twelve classic tales there is a story that will appeal to almost all readers and the illustrations stand out for their ingenuity. . . What a joy this collection is, a collection deservedly brought back to our shelves. -Armadillo Children's Books Newsletter