Zelinsky retells the story based on the familiar Grimm"s folktale as well as earlier French and Italian sources. In describing Zelinsky"s work, 1998 Caldecott Committee chair John Stewig said, 'Richly detailed oil paintings convey dramatic emotions and feature distinctive architecture, lush landscapes and authentic costuming of Renaissance Italy. Classically beautiful illustrations portray this complex love story which can be appreciated on many levels and by all ages.'