I've long maintained that the Brothers Grimm and Mother Goose are not for children. Adam Gidwitz proves my point, but actually makes more accurate versions of the stories accessible for the young, and the young at heart. Hansel and Gretel, in this book, are not poor, helpless children who use their brains to outsmart an evil witch -- they are kick-ass, sometimes helpless, determined, resourceful, smart kids who fall into misfortune, but toughen up, learn new skills, and fight their way (either by bravery, brain, or plain pluckiness) out of their difficulties. Gidwitz has incorporated several tales into this story of Hansel and Gretel, with true under-standing (read the book; that's not a typo). The narration style reminded me a little of grandfather talking about Wesley and Buttercup. Gobbled this up in one sitting.
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