Natalia G. Toreeva

The Battle on the Kalinov-bridge: a Russian Fairy Tale Natalia G. Toreeva

The Battle on the Kalinov-bridge retells an exciting Russian fairy tale as seen through the text and illustrations of Natalia G. Toreeva. However, she does not give a word-by-word translation of the tale. "In this story I have tried to stay close to the original, but I have attempted to tell the story by my own words and meanings, and to a contemporary audience." Normally Russian fairy tales were not written specifically for children or adults, so everyone could find their own meaning. While children may be fascinated by the adventures of boys battling several-headed serpents, adults would consider the hidden meaning of the symbolic battle, interpreting it as a fight between good and evil. In the end, all will learn an important lesson about friendship and loyalty, which should be given to each other and to your country. Originally from Leningrad (now St. Petersburg, Russia), Natalia G. Toreeva is an accomplished, award-winning artist whose works are in the collections of museums in Chicago and Russia. She received her master's degree in art and design in St. Petersburg, Russia, and her master's in computer science from DePaul University, Chicago. A retired engineer, she is a member of the Artists Trade Union of Russia and of the DuPage Writer's Group in Illinois. She has illustrated novels, poetry and children's books, and has contributed written works to a number of literary journals. The author believes reading is an important way for children to gain knowledge and inspire creativity. Her previous children's books are Lucy the Chicken and Her Friends and Greg and the Sea Monster. She is the mother of twins, and lives in Carol Stream, Illinois. Publisher's website: http://sbpra.com/NataliaGToreeva