Leina and the Haunted Forest

This modern fairy tale, beautifully illustrated in Júlia Sardà’s inimitable and intricate style, is sure to become a classic.

When the townsfolk want to collect wood in the forest across the river, Leina is the one who takes them there and back in her boat. But, one day, her passenger – a young man named Oren – never appears for his return trip. Leina is worried. She’s heard that the forest is haunted. That some people who go in never come out. So, when she finally spots the lantern across the river signaling that someone is waiting for her, she’s relieved. Only, it isn’t Oren. It’s a strange toad who calls himself the Lord of the Toadstools. And Leina’s odyssey to uncover the mystery of the missing townspeople is about to begin …

Children will be enthralled by this richly imagined fairy tale about a forest’s secrets – and its secret keepers. Written by the award-winning team of Myriam Dahman and Nicolas Digard, the story offers a powerful message about gratitude and forgiveness. With its captivating illustrations by internationally acclaimed artist Júlia Sardà, the book makes an excellent choice to read aloud, though it is also suitable for emerging readers. It provides opportunities for discussions about taking nature – and our fellow creatures – for granted, and the perils and harms that can come from misunderstanding others who are different.