Jack the Beanstalk - Storycard Theater Author:David Battino, Hazuki Kataoka The story of Jack ? the poor boy who climbs a magical beanstalk to a wicked giant?s castle and returns with a golden harp and hen ? reflects humanity?s ancient fascination with touching the sky. (The first printed version appeared in the 1700s.) In most versions, though, Jack is portrayed as a sneaky thief, even returning multiple ti... more »mes to steal more treasure. The Leaf Moon Arts version is presented in Storycard Theater? format, our modern version of the Japanese picture-card dramas called kamishibai. Here Jack is a compassionate figure who rescues the repressed harp and hen from the cruel giant. (This is one of the lesser-known but earliest versions of this classic tale.) Kazumi Verkler?s gentle illustrations add a warm, friendly atmosphere.« less