The Blue Bird's Palace

Gr 1–3-Natasha, a young girl living in the Blue Forest, has a life filled with love and joy. After her mother falls ill and dies, her father spoils Natasha in his grief. Although she is surrounded by beauty and luxury, the girl has an insatiable desire for more. The story is translated from a Russian tale and encapsulates the tone and feel of traditional folktales: "By the time she was sixteen, Natasha was truly beautiful. But she could change as suddenly as the weather—sweet as sunshine if she got her own way, savage as a storm if she did not." The illustrations, full-bleed acrylic depictions, with extravagant folk-style detail, bring Natasha's whimsical experience to life. With elements reminiscent of "The Fisherman and His Wife," this story will remind children that they should be careful what they wish for!