The Golden Mare, the Firebird, and the Magic Ring

This work in a combination of old Russian tales retold by the author. They will be quite familiar to readers of such. They are certainly no worse for the wear in this retelling though as the author has done a wonderful job. The tales are the typical quest type, my favoriet genre. The real magic of this book though are the wonderful illustrations. The detail is almost magical and the colors are absolutely dazzling. I could pontificate somewhat in comparing comparing her work with other authors, but this is an absolute silly excercise as each artist should be judge on their own works and not those of others. I liked this work. The kids I read it to like it. It is informative, fun and a delight to see. What more could you want?

A conglomeration of russian folk tales. Alexi the huntsman seeks his fortune & finds a job with the Tsar, along the way acquiring a magic horse, and at the end of his journey, a wondorous bride. The illustrations are quality Sanderson, as always very factual and detailed, but probably her finest. I always find myself a little let down as her illustrations dont quite have the magic & mysterious quality of some other illustrators such as Kinuko Y Craft or Trina S. Hyman to name just two of the finest. The story mangages to be quite interesting, in spite of the quest for the Firebird being such a familiar story, and in the end there is a lovely twist in revenge for the Tsar. Quite good. kotori [email protected]