Jack and his marvelous beanstalk made their first appearance in England in 1734—and for nearly three centuries the tale has continued to enchant children. After all, what could be more reassuring to a small child than the idea that even a little boy can outwit a scary giant?

John Cech retells this popular story with humor and warmth, adding plenty of entertaining detail and bringing in some less familiar elements, too. (For example, when Jack escapes for the last time, the giant's wife comes along with him, and becomes his mother's good friend.) And Robert Mackenzie's art captures all the magic of the huge beanstalk and the giant's oversized world up in the clouds.