{"product_id":"hank-and-gertie-a-pioneer-hansel-and-gretel-story-9781513261225","title":"Hank and Gertie: A Pioneer Hansel and Gretel Story","description":"\u003ch2\u003eA Pioneer Twist on a Classic Fairy Tale\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFrom award-winning author Eric A. Kimmel with gorgeous, brightly patterned illustrations from artist Mara Penny, \u003ci\u003eHank and Gertie\u003c\/i\u003e brings a modern twist to the classic Hansel and Gretel folktale combined with the high-adventure landscape of the Oregon Trail.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhile taking a break from their journey out west, Hank and Gertie lose their way back to their covered wagon and stumble upon the most glorious house made of candy. Little do they know there's a dangerous witch lurking nearby, and she's got her eye on the two hungry and vulnerable children.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePerfect for Young Readers Ages 4-8\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis hardcover picture book combines the timeless appeal of Hansel and Gretel with the adventurous spirit of the American frontier. Children will connect with the familiar fairy tale structure while discovering the unique setting of the Oregon Trail and pioneer life in 19th century America.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eAward-Winning Author and Vibrant Illustrations\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eEric A. Kimmel has written more than fifty books and received numerous awards throughout his distinguished career. His storytelling brings authenticity and engaging narratives to children's literature. Mara Penny's illustrations feature bright colors, intricate patterns, and rich textures that bring the pioneer setting and fairy tale elements to life on every page.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eEducational Value Meets Entertainment\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis book offers multiple learning opportunities for young readers. Children explore American history through the lens of the Oregon Trail and frontier life, while engaging with classic fairy tale themes of resourcefulness, bravery, and sibling bonds. The Western U.S. setting provides cultural and geographical context that enriches the reading experience.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eIdeal for Home and Classroom Libraries\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eTeachers and parents will appreciate how this adaptation introduces historical concepts alongside literary elements. The combination of familiar fairy tale structure with pioneer-era details makes it an excellent choice for read-aloud sessions, independent reading for emerging readers, and discussions about folklore adaptations across different cultures and time periods.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cb\u003eAbout the Author\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003eKimmel, Eric A.:\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e - \u003cb\u003eEric A. Kimmel\u003c\/b\u003e has written more than fifty books, including \u003ci\u003eI Want a Real Bike in Oregon\u003c\/i\u003e, \u003ci\u003eRunaway Tortilla\u003c\/i\u003e, and \u003ci\u003eRattlestiltskin\u003c\/i\u003e, and has won numerous awards. Once a professor at the Indiana University at South Bend and Portland State University, as well as an elementary school teacher in Manhattan, Eric retired from teaching in 1993 to become a full-time writer, a dream he had since kindergarten. He currently lives in Portland, OR.\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003ePenny, Mara:\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e - \u003cb\u003eMara Penny\u003c\/b\u003e is an illustrator inspired by fairy tales, the night sky, and sparkles. She studied both interior design and jewelry design in college, and earned her BFA at California College of the Arts. A lover of colors, patterns, and textures, Mara enjoys drawing, painting, and sewing. She lives in Oakland, CA.","brand":"Westwinds Press","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50681052922130,"sku":"9781513261225","price":12.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0831\/4771\/8930\/files\/img_6c08ad2c-6d21-4f6f-8439-01161e1dd343.jpg?v=1733948292","url":"https:\/\/surprise-castle.myshopify.com\/products\/hank-and-gertie-a-pioneer-hansel-and-gretel-story-9781513261225","provider":"Surprise Castle","version":"1.0","type":"link"}