introduction by Jane Yolen A classical, magical fantasy tale that provides the reader with that rare pleasure:  the fully realized artificial world to which one can escape, to immerse oneself in an alternate reality, banishing the humdrum cares and tediums of our own world for the repspite offered by a work that is described in Ms. Yolen's introduction as "feminist fairy tale with attitude, heart, imagination, laughter, love and truth."  457 pages of careful, finely crafted art in the service of a story fit for all ages fill this nicely designed volume that's worth every penny.

PLEASE NOTE:  This is the SOFTCOVER EDITION (the hardcover is now sold out and out of print).