By Alexander Utkin (author) , Alexander Utkin (illustrator) Part of the The Gamayun Tales series
"Magnificent modern graphic novel reinventions of seriously spellbinding Slavic folk tales"
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An Anthology of Modern Russian Folk Tales
Hot on the stylish heels of Gamayun Tales I, this second anthology of Alexander Utkin’s stunning Gamayun Tales series of graphic novels is feast for all the senses - the artwork is bold and evocative, the storytelling thrillingly energetic as Gamayun, an all-seeing, all-knowing magical human-faced bird, recounts three fantastical Slavic folktales.
This anthology opens with an enthralling version of one of my all-time favourite folk-tales, Vasilisa and the Doll, in which young Vasilisa falls into the clutches of Baba Yaga (the mother of all witches) due to the talisman doll her mother gave her on her deathbed. Vasilisa’s fear on sighting Baba Yaga’s chicken-legged house, illuminated by glowing skulls, is palpable, with an ingeniously effective shift in colour palette and perspective.
Then we move to epic two-parter, The Golden Apples - “take a bite of an apple and it will bring relief from any sickness or injury. Eat the whole apple and any illness will be cured.” The question (and adventure) is, can these magical fruits cure an old king of his illness?
Alongside presenting an epic visual story-telling experience on every page, the book is also packed with witty quips, making it every bit as entertaining as it is thrilling (and fearsome too, in places).
Jam-packed with stories of magical quests and talking animals, golden chests that turn into palaces and encounters with terrifying Water Spirits, there's no end to the adventure in these books! Utkin's striking art style takes inspiration from classic mid-century Disney animation, drawing readers in for a colourful journey even if they have no familiarity with Russian mythology.
Read the full description
Alexander Utkin's Gamayun Tales are fresh and modern adaptations of familiar Slavic folktales, teamed with bold and beautiful illustrations.
Praise for the Gamayun Tales Series:
' Utkin's work is mesmerising and haunting both visually and narratively.' - Publishers Weekly
'It feels almost timeless, which is sureky the hallmark of a near perfect adaptation.' - Pipedream Comics
'Alexander Utlkin imbues this book with an energy that is enchanting to all.' - The Comics Journal
'Truly gorgeous illustration and craft.' - Broken Frontier
'If you grew up on Ingrii and Edgar Parin D'Aulaire's books... Then this is what you're looking for in the modern era.' - Paste Magazine, The 20 Best Kids Comics of 2018
Alexander Utkin is an illustrator, comic artist, designer and musician from Russia. He studied at Moscow State University of Printing Arts, graduating in 2006 with a Master of Arts. Clients include Samsung, Universal Music and WWF, among many others.
Find Alexander on Instagram
the best books for 9-12 year olds
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The LoveReading4Kids Editorial Team have read and reviewed Gamayun Tales II and determined it is suitable for children aged 9-12 years old
Gamayun Tales II features in the following genres: Fantasy / Magical, Children's and Young Adult Fiction, Children’s, Teenage and Educational, Featured Books for 9+ readers, Recommendations, Graphic Novels & Comics, Mystery / Mythology, Children’s / Teenage: General interest, Traditional Tales, Featured Books for 11+ readers
Paperback. £11.69, down from the £12.99 cover price. Not Available.
Gamayun Tales II was written by Alexander Utkin and published by Nobrow Ltd
Gamayun Tales II has 166 pages
Yes it is part of The Gamayun Tales series
£11.69, reduced from £12.99. Not Available.
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