REVIEW: The Nutcracker (Alexandre Dumas)

Book: The Nutcracker

Author: Alexandre Dumas

Premise: The gift of a handsomely decorated, enigmatic nutcracker sets the stage for a Christmas like no other: there will be legends of ancient curses, battles with the dreaded Mouse King, and a visit to the wonderful Kingdom of Dolls.

This book is a translation and adaptation of the original story by E.T.A. Hoffmann. In fact, this book starts with the narrator saying he's recounting Hoffmann's story. The main difference is the lighter tone - I could imagine reading this version to a child whereas the original is dark and unsettling. Some people say Dumas' version has more detailed descriptions of the magical scenes, but it's been so long since I read the original that I can't comment.

Personally, I would recommend reading just one version as the story is essentially the same.