The Tzar's Bird

PreSchool-Grade 3-- A lively story that successfully combines two well-loved characters from Russian folklore--the firebird and Baba Yaga--into the story of a tzar overcoming his fear of the unknown. Upon his coronation, Prince Yaroslav gives a magnificent banquet, but fails to invite the bony-legged witch, Baba Yaga. She crashes the gathering and presents Yaroslav with her gift, a magnificent firebird, warning that if any harm comes to it, he will be banished to the Outermost Edge of the World. Although he fears punishment, Yaroslav grows careless and the firebird droops. True to her word, Baba Yaga banishes Yaroslav; spurred by his deep fear of that dreadful place, he completes a perilous journey to reclaim the firebird, only to realize that he no longer needs it. Striking just the right balance between traditional folktales and modern morality tales, the text is filled with rich imagery. Rayevsky's highly stylized illustrations are an ideal complement to the text, effortlessly combining pen-and-ink, watercolor, and acrylic. Using his trademark linear style with flourishes of intense color such as emerald and crimson, he advances the story line without overpowering it. Suitable for either sharing aloud in small group settings or for independent reading, the book gives an accessible view of Russian folklore. --Denise Anton Wright, Library Book Selection Service, Inc., Bloomington, IL
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