An Illustrated Kalevala: Myths and Legends from Finland by Kristi Makinen

Encounter mythical heroes, mighty eagles and terrifying dragons in this lavishly illustrated adaptation of the classic Finnish epic.

This superb prose retelling of Finland's national folk saga is brought to life with exquisitely detailed artwork of magical creatures, snowy mountains, adventurous heroes and dark forests by renowned illustrator Pirkko-Liisa Surojegin.

Thrilling and inspiring, An Illustrated Kalevala is the perfect collection to share on a winter's night and will give a lifetime of enjoyment to children and adults alike.

Kirsti Mäkinen (1939-2016) worked at the National Board of Education of Finland and was a lecturer in Finnish language and literature at the Helsinki Suomalainen Yhteiskoulu High School. Her adaptation of The Kalevala for children was awarded a 2009 Aesop Prize from the American Folklore Society.


Pirkko-Liisa Surojegin is a well-known Finnish illustrator, renowned for her delicate, detailed portrayals of Finland's wildlife and folklore. She graduated in 1977 from Helsinki University of Art and Design and has since illustrated many books loved by children and adults. She is the illustrator of Otto and the Secret Light of Christmas, also published by Floris Books.


Kaarina Brooks was born in Finland and emigrated to Canada as a child. She is a translator and illustrator of three books of Finnish folktales for children.

Floris Books

Target Age: 9-16

Pub Date: August 25, 2020

0.8" H x 9.3" L x 8.4" W

120 pages

hardcover