Inspired by Russian folklore, French children's author Orianne Lallemand spins this original fairy-tale about Natasha, a young girl who grows ever more hardhearted, as her father indulges her every whim. When she meets the guardian of the Blue Forest, her wish for a great palace where every one of her desires will be met is granted, but with a condition: she will not be able to leave this fabulous residence. At first she is happy with her bargain, but then she begins to miss her home and father, and nightly flights as a blue bird show her the reality of the world's suffering...

Originally published in French as Le Palais de l'Oiseau Bleu, this lovely picture-book pairs an engaging (albeit not terribly original) tale from Lallemand with absolutely gorgeous artwork from illustrator Carole Henáff. Although I have read two other picture-books from this author, my motivation for picking it up at the library was the beautiful cover, and I discovered that the artwork within was every bit as enchanting! From decorative endpaper to decorative endpaper, the visuals here are just lovely, with gorgeous colors and charming stylized figures. This is my first encounter with Henáff's work, but I certainly hope it will not be my last. Recommended to fairy-tale lovers, and to anyone who appreciates beautiful picture-books. ( )