On his journeys to Russia in the early twentieth century, British author Arthur Ransome gathered folklore from peasant storytellers and then retold them in English upon his return. This choice collection includes nine of these charming tales - some resembling stories from western Europe, others introducing exotic creatures and situations unique to the Russian imagination. Filled with magical beasts, daring young men, frightful giants, wicked witches, and captivating creatures of the sea, the tales introduce young readers to the legendary Firebird; the dulcimer-playing Sadko, whose music could make the Tzar of the Sea dance; the iron-toothed witch Baba Yaga; and other beguiling characters.