Dinara Mirtalipova

This artful and thought-provoking picture book shares the little-known story of the disappearance of the Aral Sea—and the loss of livelihood and biodiversity as fishing villages and ships were left stranded in the desert without water.The Aral Sea once stretched across modern-day Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan. A large saltwater lake of Central Asia (called “sea” because of its vastness), the Aral Sea’s 26 square miles (67 square kilometers) sustained its surrounding communities for generations. Beginning in the 1960s, aggressive Soviet industrialization diverted water for agricultural production and caused the lake to shrink. Today, the waters that had thrived for centuries have almost entirely disappeared—and along with them, the biodiversity of the lake, its thriving fishing industry, and the many homes along its shores. Told in a folkloric style with stunning illustrations, this true tale chronicles what happens when nature’s generosity is exploited. It gently invites readers to consider the reality of irreversible environmental harm, its global impact, and what it means to be compassionate to the land we live on.TIMELY THEMES: This book showcases lessons of community effort and perseverance, addressing important themes about the environment, biodiversity, water access, the impact of colonization, and the effects of industry and agriculture. LITTLE-KNOWN STORY: Few Central Asian stories like this are familiar to American and European readers, and very little has been published about the Aral Sea outside of Russia. This captivating picture book brings its important story to the world.  FAR-REACHING IMPACT: The disappearance of the Aral Sea has a global impact: the effects have been documented as far away as Scandinavia and Antarctica, and toxic soils from the damaged Aral Sea basin are being carried by winds to the far corners of the planet. This story offers readers a chance to learn about the loss of a critical resource and reassess what it means to be environmentally aware, both locally and globally.Perfect for: Young readers who love nature and fact books Educators, librarians, and parents seeking engaging geography and natural science books for kids Anyone looking for stories featuring an environmental call to action A resource for talking about the impact of colonialism, industrialization, and underrepresented regions of the world Fans of Dinara Mirtalipova's art

Rediscover the magic of Russian folktales in a breathtaking illustrated edition. This collection of traditional stories will sweep you away to the birch forests and ornate palaces of Russia. You'll meet a mysterious girl born from the snow, a terrifying Baba Yaga, and a series of dauntless heroines and heroes willing to fight dragons and cross fiery rivers. Blending whimsical magic with magnificent drama, these tales come to life alongside intricate contemporary art in this special illustrated edition. POPULAR SERIES: The Tales series gives new life to traditional stories. Celebrating the richness of folklore around the world, and featuring the work of beloved contemporary illustrators, these books are treasured by adults and teens alike. ICONIC STORIES: Russian stories hold a special place in the hearts of fairy tales fans. Unforgettable characters like Baba Yaga and the Fire-Bird have captured imaginations for generations. In this collection, readers are sure to find old favorites and discover something new. GORGEOUS SPECIAL EDITION: With a mesmerizing full-page illustration for each story, as well as creamy paper, a ribbon page marker, and a handsome hardcover design, this edition is perfect for gifting and display.

Cinderella lives in a grand house in a beautiful city, but ever since her father married again, she has been little more than a servant to her stepmother and cruel stepsisters. One night everyone but Cinderella goes to a ball at the palace. She will need a fairy godmother's help if she is to go. The classic tale of Cinderella retold in a magnificent pop-up aperture format. A triumph of paper engineering with wonderful illustrations by Dinara Mirtalipova.

When a merchant steals a rose from the garden of a terrifying beast, his daughter, Beauty, agrees to go to the beast's palace to save her father's life. The classic tale of Beauty and the Beast is retold here in a magnificent 'pop-in' format. Each page has three layers of paper, cut to give the impression of a 3D scene. A triumph of paper engineering with wonderful illustrations by Dinara Mirtalipova.