Additional information
by Alisa Barannik (Illustrator), Raluca Sirbu (Author)
A magical box unlocks three sparkling stories of courage and hope, inspired by real-life heroes from a land where stories once had to hide.
Once, in a country shaped like a heart, a brave girl faced a time when stories were forbidden by a powerful king and his dragons. With only a magical box and three secret tales, she brought light and happiness to her people, even when shadows tried to keep them silent.
Inspired by true events from Romania's past, this enchanting fantasy weaves together the power of imagination and the strength found in sharing stories--even when times are tough. Readers will discover themes of bravery, friendship, and the importance of never letting go of hope, no matter the challenges.
Will the magical stories inside the box help set everyone free? Open its lid and find out what wonders and dreams are waiting to be shared!
Author Biography
Raluca grew up in Romania -- a country shaped like a heart and brimming with stories. When there were no books left to read, she simply invented her own. Though she studied physics and now works in the telecom industry, she has never let go of her love for storytelling. From her home in New Jersey, she writes children's books that spark imagination and wonder. When she's not writing, Raluca loves to read, travel, and tend to her garden.
Visit her at: www.ralucasirbu.com
Alisa Barannik grew up in Ukraine -- a land of wide skies, warm hands, and stories whispered across generations.
In 2022, when war came to her doorstep, she left her home and found herself in Lisbon, carrying only a suitcase and an inner world filled with images and characters.
Before turning to illustration, Alisa worked with ceramics, exhibiting her pieces in galleries and at festivals throughout Ukraine. But in Portugal, she returned to what had always been with her: the gift of seeing wonder in ordinary things. Now she draws stories for children -- and for the child inside every adult. She still believes in fairy tales. She travels often, reads endlessly, and finds magic in faces, places, and moments.
Her work can be found at behance.net/alisabarannik
