Love is stronger than might, stronger than fear. Keep your heart as strong as your sword, and right will triumph. Following this instruction, Jack the lad becomes Jack the strong of heart, embracing his father's silver sword as he sets forth. In Pleasant DeSpain's able hands, and with the help of a maiden named Elinor, an ancient tortoise, and a cat named Octavia, Jack and the Beanstalk becomes a tale of action, fun, and justice. Joe Shlichta's vibrant oil paintings, reminiscent of its medieval origins, convey the challenge, fear, and triumph of this timeless tale.