The Sea King's Daughter: A Russian Legend by Aaron Shepard and Gennady Spirin

The Sea King's Daughter: A Russian Legend by Aaron Shepard and illustrated by Gennady Spirin is a picture book retelling of a Russian folk ballad. This is one of my favorite kinds of picture books because the art is stunning, the story well-told and there are source notes for the story. I love source notes. I adore source notes. They help answer my questions and those of others who email me asking for information about picture book versions that often have to remain unanswered. I wish all picture books (and other books) of fairy tales and folklore included source notes.

Book description from the publisher and author:

Set in the city of Novgorod long ago, the story tells of the poor musician Sadko, whose fortunes change when he is called to play at the Sea King's palace. Adventure, romance -- and a heartbreaking decision -- await the musician when he encounters the Sea King's beautiful daughter.

Honors for this title: 1998 American Library Association Notable Children's Books 1998 NCSS/CBC Notable Trade Books in the Field of Social Studies 1997 Aesop Accolade (American Folklore Society) 1998 Honor Title, Storytelling World Awards 1997 New York Times Best Illustrated Books 1997 Cincinnati Enquirer Best Illustrated Children's Books American Bookseller Pick of the Lists Starred Review, Publishers Weekly Featured on "CBS This Morning"

Yes, I keep featuring out-of-print titles, but most are readily available still. Now for some of Spirin's illustrations which are lovely. Spirin has a great amount of experience with illustrating folklore, too.