Otto and the Secret Light of Christmas

Otto and the Secret Light of Christmas

One day Otto, an elfin adventurer, finds a postcard on the seashore showing pictures of beautiful sparkling lights in the night sky with the words, “The light of Christmas!” If this “Christmas” can brighten even the gloomiest Finnish winter, Otto decides he must find it. So he heads north, trudging through dark forests and skiing towards the fells of Lapland, in search of the secret light of Christmas.

On his way he meets the mighty Kekri, king of the forest, Niiu, a beautiful leaf fairy, a hungry badger, a friendly bear and the infamous Ironworm. But will he ever find the mysterious light he’s looking for, and will Christmas brighten Otto’s winter?

In this charming storybook a mother and daughter team have painted a captivating picture of the landscape, wildlife and folklore of Finland. Otto and his friends are brought to life in sensitive, detailed illustrations on every page. Each chapter features a short new episode, making this book perfect for bedtime reading.

About the Author

Nora Surojegin is a writer and graphic designer from Finland. She graduated from EVTEK Institute of Art and Design in 2006 with a BA degree in Graphic Design. She worked freelance and inhouse, mostly in publishing and software. Nora has written three children’s books, one of which she also illustrated. She currently freelances full time. Nora is a member of Finnish Illustration Association, Kuvittajat.

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 Floris Books’ Illustrated Kalevala (2020) and Otto and the Secret Light of Christmas (2016).