Etwas von den Wurzelkindern

by Sibylle von Olfers

This is a classic story of the changing seasons. The root children spend the winter asleep. When spring comes, they wake, sew themselves new gowns, and clean and paint the beetles and bugs. All summer they play in fields, ponds and meadows before returning in the autumn to Mother Earth, who welcomes them home and puts them to bed once more.

Also available in a mini version for small hands.

(Ages 3-7)

Genres: Picture Books, Childrens, Nature, Fiction, Fantasy, Fairy Tales, Art

Hardcover

First published January 1, 1906

About the author

Sibylle von Olfers (8 May 1881 – 29 January 1916) was a German art teacher and a nun who worked as an author and illustrator of children's books. In 1906 she published her best-known work, The Root Children (original title: Etwas von den Wurzelkindern, "Something about the children from the roots").

Reviews

[Manybooks · Rating 1 out of 5]

Sibylle von Olfers' Etwas von den Wurzelkindern is likely my very favourite German language picture book (I would even place it among my favourite picture books of all time). I loved this book when my grandmother first read it to me when I was a toddler, and I still love both the text (the original German text) and the luminous "Jugendstil" illustrations with all of my heart and soul (a wonderful homage to spring, to rebirth, to joy, and to the loving care that Mother Earth gives to all). For a picture book originally published in 1906, it remains remarkably fresh and current and continues to be a top-seller, a perennial favourite in Germany, Austria and Switzerland. A German review on Amazon describes it as soul-nourishment for the youngest, and while I heartily agree with that statement, I think that this book is soul-nourishment not only for the youngest, but for everyone (I can actually recite most of the original text from memory, that is how much I love this book, how much I adore this book).

The Story of the Root-Children (originally published in 1990 by Floris Books of Edinburgh, Scotland) is touted as being a true and bona fide English language translation of Etwas von den Wurzelkindern (but the translator remains anonymous). And I am not trying to be in any way dismissive and disrespectful to those who have read and enjoyed this book, but for me, the ONLY thing that makes The Story of the Root Children even remotely worthwhile are Sibylle von Olfers' lush and luminous illustrations. The text simply does not work for me; in fact, I completely and utterly DESPISE it. I know that a translation is never, and can never be the exact replica of the original, but there is not even the vestige of the original German text, of its poetry, cadence and rhythm left in this here version. Sibylle von Olfers lyrical narrative, beautiful, evocative and simple enough to share with even the youngest children, has been transformed into a very loose remodeling (and one which I cannot, in all honesty, even call a translation), devoid of any of the poetry and much of the magic that has made the German original such a treat, such a joy to read. Furthermore, the text has been expanded to such an extent (additional words, actions, entire scenarios) that, in my opinion, The Story of the Root Children has ceased to be a picture book for very young children and has been turned into a textually dense retelling more suited for slightly older children.

Now if The Story of the Root Children had been described and marketed as a retelling of the German original (and with the author of the adapted text properly identified, as well as von Olfers named as illustrator), I probably would have enjoyed it quite a bit more than I did (not as much as the original German version, of course, but I would likely have appreciated the story, the text, as a clever and imaginative interpretation). And no, The Story of the Root Children is definitely not a terrible or even an inappropriate picture book, a terrible story in and of itself. However, in my humble opinion, it simply cannot and actually should not be regarded as a true translation of Sibylle von Olfers' masterpiece; its many stylistic, textual, even thematic alterations make it but a rather loose and for me massively annoying adaptation. In fact, the only part of The Story of the Root Children that I would designate as being wholly of and by Sibylle von Olfers are the illustrations. And while I thus cannot really in any way recommend The Story of the Root-Children for its text, its adapted narrative (especially since it actually is touted as being a true translation of the original, a fact that has angered me enough to now only consider but one star), I can and do recommend the book for the simply glorious illustrations (and if you know how to read German, go and get yourself a copy of the German original for a truly magical, wonderful and lyrically, poetically sweet reading experience).

[Manybooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

After being rather disappointed with the text (the translation, or rather the so-called translation) of The Story of the Root-Children, I am glad to have been quite pleasantly surprised with and by both the text and the quilted illustrations of Mother Earth and Her Children: A Quilted Fairy Tale. I have to admit that while the original illustrations by Sibylle von Olfers will always remain a personal favourite, I was and continue to be wowed and impressed by Sieglinde Schoen-Smith's quiltwork and very touched by the backstory of the quilt (how creating this lovely masterpiece, celebrating the seasons, celebrating joy, life and rebirth helped Sieglinde Schoen-Smith come to terms with the death of her son, how working on the quilt brought her peace). As someone with basically no sewing skills whatsoever, I remain in complete awe at Sieglinde Schoen-Smith's accomplishment and the fact that she has managed to so successfully portray Sibylle von Olfers' glorious, life-affirming Jugendstil illustrations as a quilt, as a work of exquisite craftsmanship.

The accompanying text by renowned folklore expert Jack Zipes is also impressive, as he has actually managed to successfully capture both the poetry and general rhythm of Sibylle von Olfers original text (as presented in Etwas von den Wurzelkindern), no mean feat when translating poetry. My friend Abigail has pointed out that Zack Zipes' text is somewhat shortened, and not as complete as the original (and should therefore perhaps be considered more of an adaptation rather than a translation). However, I believe that this was/is likely in response to the fact that the quilt itself does not depict all of Sibylle von Olfers' original illustrations. For example, Sieglinde Schoen-Smith's quilt does not contain the scene where the "root children" are playing near and on the creek, and it would have been strange and problematic indeed if Jack Zipes had included translated text for images, for depictions not present; this really and truly would not have worked well at all. Zipes' text reads as authentically as possible, capturing the poetry, the exuberant joy of springtime, the beauty (the child-friendly, life-affirming atmosphere) of both Sibylle von Olfers' original text and Sieglinde Schoen-Smith's quilted illustrations.

As to the illustrator's and translator's notes at the back of the book, what can I say, but that they are both informative and majorly impressive. Sieglinde Schoen-Smith's backstory about her childhood in post WWII Germany (how she was allowed to peruse her older sister's books, but had none of her own) and how the making of the quilt helped her cope with the tragic death of her son are both informative and emotionally wrenching. I think it might also be eye-opening for modern American and Canadian children to realise that after WWII, many European children did not have books and toys. My own parents tell very similar stories, that after the war, toys and books were not of prime importance for many families, who were often struggling to simply provide their children with adequate food and clothing.

Jack Zipes' notes on Sibylle von Olfers' life and work are likely a bit too advanced and textually dense for many children. However, for me, they provided and continue to provide a welcome source of academically interesting material (although I do wish that Zipes had provided a bibliographical list with suggestions for further reading). Be that as it may, there is still enough information included in the notes for additional, independent research, and I do appreciate the information provided, as I had never before read any secondary or biographical material on Sibylle von Olfers; all I knew was that she is the author and illustrator of one of my all time favourite picture books (a book I must have read more than a hundred times as a child).

[Manybooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sibylle von Olfers' Etwas von den Wurzelkindern is one of my all-time favourite picture books. I loved this book as a child (and have fond memories of both of my grandmothers reading it to me), and I still love both the simple, poetic text and the luminous "Jugendstil" illustrations. Sibylle von Olfers' masterpiece represents a glowing, loving homage to spring, youth, rebirth, joy, and the loving care Mother Earth gives to all. For a picture book originally published in 1906, this (in my humble opinion) true gem of a picture book remains remarkably fresh and current even today, perennial favourite and bestseller in Germany, Austria and Switzerland. It is soul-nourishment for both children and adults (I can actually recite most of the original German text from memory, that is how much I adore this delightful picture book).

[Calista · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sibylle wrote this in East Prussia in 1906. It was popular back then and sold all over the world. This is a Library of Congress book that our library didn’t have. I wish I could read it to the niece as I think she would appreciate its art.

It’s about Mother Earth and her children painting bugs & flowers to get ready for spring. Then, they bring all these growing things to the earth in Spring where they flourish. The children have nice clothes on too. They make the Earth beautiful before it’s back to bed in the fall inside the Earth. Rebirth of the World. It’s quite cute.

The art is pictures of a beautiful and very great detailed quilt with bright vibrant colors and needlepoint work over it. It is a work of art for certain and the pictures are full color. This is obviously a modern edition as it never would have been that colorful back in 1906. Tis Simple and quite lovely. A sweet story for children and people who appreciate the beauty of nature and fairies. I wish I could find more of Sibylle’s works, but not even the Library of Congress has more of them. Great find. I love this book.

[Kathryn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Updated review: For some reason, GoodReads placed my review of "Story of the Root-Children" (the original with illustrations by von Olfers) under the newly published book "Mother Earth and Her Children" BASED on von Olfers' original. I have now read the "new" book and, while I found the quilt to be an absolute marvel (wow! no wonder the quilter won so many awards for her work!) I felt that it lacked the charm of the original illustrations and would probably only give it three stars at most.

The below review applies to the ORIGINAL story with illustrations by von Olfers. Far superior to the "quilted" version:
Very interesting story, originally published in German in 1906. Cute concept of Mother Earth "awakening" the root children at the beginning of spring, they sew their "clothes" and then head up above ground to enjoy the spring and summer; then back into the ground to sleep away the winter. Very interesting pictures; I'm not sure how well children would relate to them as they are very naturalistic in some aspects (the beetles, for example, look quite real and are the same size as the children!) and very art nouveau in others (which I completely loved, though!) especially in the root children and the flower borders. Definitely recommended if you are looking for something different in the way of illustrations.

[Lisa Vegan · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read this version, illustrated by Sieglinde Schoen Smith, in the form of a quilt that she made. The original book appears to have an edition illustrated by the author. This edition is translated by Jack Zipes and from what I’ve read, it’s also not the full original text that Sibylle von Olfers wrote over a century ago. I am curious about the other edition.

The quilt is lovely, especially the last frame that shows the entire pattern. I do love quilts and this has such a detailed pattern. The book design is attractive also; The first letter on each page is a picture of its own.

The folk tale story is about little children who go through the seasons, preparing everything for spring (including painting the bugs) and frolicking in the summer, and return underground to Mother Earth (shown as a real woman) in the autumn to stay until it’s ready for spring again. It’s sweet, although those children sure work hard at the beginning of the story.

The back of the book has long and interesting notes by the illustrator and the author. I found it especially interesting and poignant to learn what motivated the making of this quilt.

I loved the full quilt page and liked the other illustrations. The story was just okay to good; there wasn’t much to it and it was a little too mawkish for me. And, I don’t like insects so their appearance didn’t appeal to me that much.

[Abigail · Rating 2 out of 5]

The Story of the Root Children, with the original artwork of Sibylle von Olfers.

My first exposure to this classic German children's book was through Jack Zipes' poetic translation, Mother Earth and Her Children , with quilted illustrations done by Sieglinde Schoen-Smith, in the style of Sibylle von Olfers. I have since discovered that there are two other English-language adaptations available: Audrey Wood's When The Root Children Wake Up , with illustrations done by Ned Bittinger, and Helen Dean Fish' similarly titled When the Root Children Wake Up , with von Olfers' own original artwork. This edition, The Story of the Root Children, published by the UK-based Floris Books, is a significantly expanded prose version of von Olfers' original poem, together with her artwork.

The view of Nature here is very anthropomorphic, in a way that I imagine will be appealing for some, and less so for others. For my part, I really appreciated it as an example of the other strain of classic German children's literature: the kinder, gentler strain, especially when compared to such terrifying tales as Der Struwwelpeter . So many people with whom I speak (having read all of one book) tend to reduce German children's literature to the latter, so it will be helpful to have a title toward which to point them, in arguing otherwise.

Addendum: having now had the opportunity to read the German original of this tale, Etwas von den Wurzelkindern , I can see how significant the expansion of von Olfers' text is in this edition! I'm not sure, all things considered, that this Floris Books title should even really be considered a translation, as it in no way resembles the rhyming poem found in the original. It's disturbing to me that no translator is listed, and that there is no acknowledgment that the text has been so dramatically altered. Given that von Olfers' name is the only one appearing on the book, English-language readers could be forgiven for thinking that this was a fairly faithful rendition.

Those looking for the English language version of this story closest to the original text should pick up Jack Zipes' translation, in Mother Earth and Her Children: A Quilted Fairy Tale , which, although not perfect, retains the original rhyming poetic form. Those looking for a prose retelling of the tale, one that acknowledges what it is doing, should look to Helen Dean Fish's When the Root Children Wake Up , which (like this edition) contains von Olfers' original artwork, but which (unlike this edition) is frank about the fact that it is an adaptation, rather than a translation.

[Abigail · Rating 3 out of 5]

Etwas von den Wurzelkindern, original German text and illustrations by Sibylle von Olfers.

After reading two very different English "translations" of this classic German picture-book, first published in 1906 - Jack Zipes' brief but poetic rendition, in Mother Earth and Her Children: A Quilted Fairy Tale , and an unnamed translator's extensive prose version, in Floris Books' The Story of the Root Children - I have been lucky enough (thank you, Gundula!) to obtain a copy of the original German edition. Having now read the original text, my estimation of the two versions listed above, as well as my judgment of two other loose retellings - Audrey Wood's When The Root Children Wake Up , illustrated by Ned Bittinger, and Helen Dean Fish's similarly titled When the Root Children Wake Up , with von Olfers' own artwork - must be reconsidered. An important lesson, I think, about the difficulties attendant upon translating poetic works, even seemingly "simple" narratives like this.

This tale of the little Wurzelkindern, or Root Children, who awaken as Spring approaches, and, with the guidance of old Mutter Erde (Mother Earth), make ready for their appearance in the world, is told entirely in rhyming poetry: "Und als der Frühling / kommt ins Land, / da ziehn gleich einem / bunten Band, / die Käfer, Blumen / Gräser klein, / frohlockend in die / Welt hinein." Together with von Olfers' charming Art Nouveau style illustrations, the sprightly text makes for a delightful reading experience: one imagines that German children have enjoyed hearing it read aloud for a few generations now! It's a shame (though perhaps not surprising) that none of the English-language versions I have read really capture the flavor of the original. In any case, I'm happy to have had the chance to read the German, as it has definitely given me a better appreciation of von Olfers' work!

[Abigail · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mother Earth and Her Children, illustrated by Sieglinde Schoen-Smith.

Originally published in 1906 as Etwas von den Wurzelkindern (literally "Something About the Root Children"), this classic German picture-book has also been released in English, together with Sibylle Von Olfer's original artwork, as The Story of the Root Children . This edition, put out in 2007, offers a new translation (in verse) by celebrated fairy-tale scholar Jack Zipes, and new illustrations - based on von Olfers' own - in the form of an elaborate (and award-winning) quilt created by Sieglinde Schoen-Smith.

The story itself is simple: Mother Earth awakens her children, calling them to prepare for the coming Spring. Making new clothing for the season, painting the beetles with bright colors, the cherub-like children emerge from their home in the ground, delighting in the beauties of Spring and Summer, before being called home again in the Fall. A lovely and gentle celebration of the passing of the seasons, with a somewhat sentimental, anthropomorphized view of Nature, Mother Earth and Her Children is a visual delight! Schoen-Smith's quilt, made in honor of von Olfers' story, is simply gorgeous, whether seen in part, in each individual scene, or all together, at the end. Definitely one that fairy-tale fans will want to peruse! I think I may try to hunt down an edition with the original artwork, just to compare...

Addendum: after having read the German original today, I have concluded that, although Zipes is to be commended for sticking to the rhyming poetry of von Olfers' text, there are some significant differences between his version, and hers. I think this is probably inevitable, as he was attempting to translate in rhyme, but is also unfortunate, as it necessitates the inclusion of words and phrases not in the German - something I tend to dislike. In any case, those looking for the English-language text closest to the original Etwas von den Wurzelkindern should definitely pick up Zipes' translation, rather than The Story of the Root Children , from Floris Books, which greatly expands upon the text, without ever acknowledging that it is doing so.

[Judy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Why is the art so much more attractive in the old editions! I've only read English translations of this book, so I was pleased to see Gundula's comments. Too bad I can't read German. I guess I have to wait for another translator to tackle this.

Joy in nature! The awakening of flowers and insects in the spring! And the little root children, busily helping everything along. A gentle story.

[siriusedward · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a wonderful tale.My kids loved the beautiful illustrations and the story.A lovely fairy tale for kids.

[Chantal · Rating 3 out of 5]

Although the drawings were great of this book, I found the story lacking. It didn't really go somewhere and was just average. Wished I liked it more then I did.

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

The incredible illustrations in this book are details of a modern quilt inspired by Sibylle von Olfers' classic storybook Mother Earth and Her Children. This book was inspired by the quilt which explores the changing of the seasons and lightly talks about the circle of life. When Mother Earth calls her children to prepare for spring, the earthly children come and stretch before they make themselves beautiful and ready for the season to change. They dust off the bumblebees, scrub the beetles, paint bright new coats on the ladybugs, and awaken the caterpillars from their cocoons. Open new blossoms, the children emerge from the earth and become spring flowers that frolic through the summer and autumn, until the leaves begin to fall and they return to Mother Earth, bringing the weary bugs and beetles back to their winter refuge. This was a very cute Folklore was is great for 3 years old and up. Like I said earlier the illustrations were amazing and great for little readers. This book is meant for parents to read to their little one. This book develops a message that parents may need to explain to their children. I think this book would be appealing to all readers.

[Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Story of the Root Children.

What a wonderful little book! I found an online edition, complete with artwork, at childrenslibrary.org. Unfortunately it was in the original German so I had my husband translate it for me (over the phone while he was out of town for work--what a fabulous guy!). It's difficult to translate poetry, so I'm sure I missed out on some of the magic, but I picked up the gist of the story. The root children are little flowers and weeds whom Mother Earth awakens to prepare for spring--comb your hair and sew your spring clothes, she tells them. They come out of the ground and play through summer and into fall when Mother Earth calls them home and puts them to bed until next year. I love LOVE! the illustrations and am tempted to track down a copy for myself just so I can look at the pictures. Definitely worth a look.

It seems like there are several different editions and some English translations. My review is based on the original book published by Schreiber (Germany) in 1906; 19 pages, and found here:

http://www.childrenslibrary.org/icdl/...

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a beautiful story! Written as a German tale in 1906, Sieglinde Schoen Smith retells it in the beauty of quilt.
The illustrations are of the actual quilt that Ms. Smith created from this precious tale of Mother Earth, her children, and the seasons of the year.

[Jen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful illustrations.

[Victoria]

An interesting look at the cycle of the three seasons and how the earth 'wakes up' from its' winter slumber.

[Yourmidcoastmama · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of our springtime favourites!

[Danielle Rocke · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this book. Beautiful illustrations and a wonderful story to introduce science in an imaginative way.

[Tammy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Creative way to tell about spring.

[Jean James · Rating 5 out of 5]

I owned this when I was a small child and just recently found a copy.
Brought a smile to my face remembering how I studied those pictures when I was a 6 year old.

[Ana on the Shelves]

Beautiful! A must read!

[Judy Lindow · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a mini-version of Sibylle von Olfers' classic story, "The Root Children". The Story of the Root Children is Sibylle von Olfers' (1881-1916) best known work. Her blend of natural observation and use of simple design has led to comparisons with Kate Greenaway and Elsa Beskow.

All through the winter the Root Children are asleep underground, but when spring comes Mother Nature wakes them up. Then the Root Children are busy cleaning and painting the beetles and bugs. When summer comes they play in the fields, ponds and meadows.

The idea that little children were living beneath the earth - like moles - with all the creature comforts intrigued me. I loved how they painted the flowers, lady bugs and prepared Spring working with Mother Nature and then marched up to cover the earth with their creations.

A beautiful fantasy poem to present the Seasons. I think I remember that this poem was a popular poem from the 1920s.

[Crystal Marcos · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed the illustrations in Mother Earth and Her Children: A Quilted Fairy Tale. I haven't read the original version and hope to someday if it is ever translated fully into English. I did not care much for the rhyming text in this version. It didn't flow very well, especially as a read aloud. I understand this was a shorter version than the original. I liked the additional informative text in the back of the book.

[Daisy · Rating 2 out of 5]

Fab vintage illustrations.

[Patriciahoperose · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love the illustrations.

[Alice Ball · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emergent spring story with von Olfers classic early 20th century illustrations.

[Francis S. Poesy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm a sucker for the old-time picture books. I'm not sure if its their sense of whimsy, their sincerity, or just the artwork (why not all three!), but I love them. I will never not give them 5 stars.

[itselv · Rating 2 out of 5]

Child labor but make it magical

[Jen · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fun story with bright coloured illustrations. I had never read any of these books until now. The root children sleep under ground until Mother Nature comes and gently wakes them. Then they dress and go play until the chill wind of Autumn arrives.