Description
By Arthur Ransome. Illustrated by Dmitri Mitrokhin. Enter the enchanted world of Russian folklore in Arthur Ransome’s beloved collection of folk tales, filled with magic, adventure, and extraordinary happenings.
In Old Peter’s Russian Tales, celebrated author Arthur Ransome retells a rich collection of traditional Russian fairy tales with warmth, imagination, and narrative charm. Framed around the storytelling of Old Peter, an old forester who lives with his grandchildren in a little hut in the forest, the book transports readers into a world filled with wonder, mystery, and timeless adventure.
Within these pages readers encounter legendary figures from Russian folklore, including the fearsome witch Baba Yaga, the radiant Firebird, magical princes and princesses, talking animals, and brave heroes facing extraordinary trials. Drawing deeply from Russian folk tradition, Ransome captures the atmosphere and spirit of these age-old stories while presenting them in an engaging style that has captivated generations of readers.
Adding to the enchantment are the beautiful illustrations of Dmitri Mitrokhin, whose artwork captures the mysterious and dreamlike quality of the stories. Together, text and illustration create a memorable journey into the imaginative world of Russian folklore.
More than a children’s storybook, Old Peter’s Russian Tales offers a fascinating introduction to the rich storytelling traditions of Russia, bringing together fantasy, folklore, adventure, and the enchantments of the traditional fairy tale.
This carefully restored edition brings Ransome’s beloved collection to a new generation of readers. Ideal for lovers of fairy tales, fantasy literature, Russian and Slavic folklore, and classic children’s literature, Old Peter’s Russian Tales remains an enchanting collection for readers of all ages.
About the author: Arthur Ransome (1884–1967) was an English author and journalist best known for the classic Swallows and Amazons series and his retellings of Russian folk tales and legends. He spent considerable time in Russia during the early twentieth century, developing a deep interest in Russian culture, folklore, and storytelling traditions.
About the illustrator: Dmitri Mitrokhin (1883–1973) was a Russian artist, illustrator, and graphic designer celebrated for his distinctive book illustrations and fine graphic work. His illustrations for Russian fairy tales and literary classics became widely admired for their elegance, atmosphere, and connection to Russian artistic traditions.
