It would be impossible to retell Cervantes’ epic novel adequately in 32 pages, and author Eric A. Kimmel’s choice to retell the scene for which Don Quixote is most famous is a brilliant compromise. In an end note, he refers to the battle with the windmills as “one of the most enduring images in world literature,” and he makes it accessible here to young readers in a story that introduces Don Quixote, Sancho Panza, Rocinante, and Dulcinea. The contrast between reality and what Don Quixote sees is obvious in Leonard Everettt Fisher’s highly stylized drawing, which feature highly expressive eyes and unconventional angles. The illustrstions combine with Kimmel’s text to make this an exciting and fresh take on an adult classic. (Ages 5–12)

A self-proclaimed knight

Señor Quexada has read so many books about knights in shining armor that he thinks he is one. He gives himself a name more fitting for a knight -- Don Quixote -- and sets off one evening with his squire. At dawn they come across what Don Quixote recognizes as an army of monstrous giants. "Master!" cries Sancho Panza. "They are only windmills!" But Don Quixote knows what he has to do . . .

Don Quixote is the creation of the Spanish writer Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra. Eric A. Kimmel skillfully and cleverly crystallizes the character, and with his powerful line and
vibrant color Leonard Everett Fisher completes the funny, loving portrait.