Quick Look
- This stunning hardback is a charming introduction to the tradition and magic of Nordic culture
- The animals of Nordic folklore -- Fox, Wolf, Bear and more -- star in this sparkling and authentic collection of tales for readers of all ages
- Created by Finnish author-illustrator Pirkko-Liisa Surojegin, who is renowned for her characterful portrayals of the creatures and landscapes of Finland
A beautifully illustrated collection of animal tales from traditional Nordic folklore, created by renowned author-illustrator Pirkko-Liisa Surojegin (Otto and the Secret Light of Christmas).
Description
Travel to the snowy forests of Finland to meet the animals of the north in this charming and beautifully illustrated collection of traditional animal tales.
Classic characters of Nordic folklore -- cunning Fox, gullible Wolf and great Bear -- star in these lively stories of mischief and fun. Readers will discover how Bear became lord of the northern forests, how Fox outwitted Raven, and how Rabbit earned his fluffy white tail.
This stunning storybook collection is created by renowned Finnish author-illustrator Pirkko-Liisa Surojegin, with her trademark intricate, authentic and characterful drawings of the creatures and landscapes of Finland. Full of warmth and wit, this is a perfect way for readers of all ages to explore the tradition and magic of Nordic culture.
Reviews
'The stories are steeped in traditional rural life, which is depicted beautifully in the intricate and authentic illustrations. The collection is perfect for reading with children. While the tales stand alone, there is a narrative thread that runs through them and it is satisfying to read each one in turn and to be absorbed in the magic of Nordic culture.'
-- Juno
'The lighthearted, humorous, and wise tales in this well-written Finnish import are narrated in breezy, conversational tones... Characters are individualized and well realized and have loads of personality; the dialogue-heavy tales are fast-paced and capably convey characters' quirky temperaments… The illustrations, created with plant-based watercolors and ink pen, are lovely. The delicate yet lush, textured, detailed artwork captures the naturalistic-looking animal characters… These stories are such fun readers will race through this anthology.'
-- Kirkus Reviews
'With large font and full-page illustrations, these lively stories are perfect for newly confident readers to read by themselves, but Nordic Animal Tales is also a lovely book to read aloud with younger children.'
-- Five Books
'Beautifully illustrated throughout and exceptionally well written, "An Illustrated Collection of Nordic Animal Tales" will prove to be an enduringly popular and entertaining addition to personal, family, primary school, and community library collections.'
-- Midwest Book Review
'Perfect bedtime book of tales. The illustrations are gorgeous.'
-- NetGalley Reviewer
'The illustrations are absolutely beautiful. I was completely in awe of this gorgeous artwork. Every little brushstroke is so delicate. You can clearly see the fur and feathers of each animal. I like the muted woodland colors of the full-color illustrations.'
-- Luminous Libro Blog
Author
Pirkko-Liisa Surojegin is a well-known Finnish illustrator, renowned for her delicate, detailed portrayals of Finland's wildlife and folklore. She graduated in 1977 from Helsinki University of Art and Design and has since illustrated many books loved by children and adults. She is the illustrator of Otto and the Secret Light of Christmas, co-created with her daughter Nora, and An Illustrated Kalevala, both published by Floris Books.
Jill Timbers is professional Finnish-English translator. Originally from Pennsylvania, USA she lived and worked in Finland for many years. Her books include Otto and the Secret Light of Christmas and An Illustrated Collection of Nordic Animal Tales. She currently lives in Illinois with her Finnish husband.
