First edition of The Kingfishers by Karel Novy, beautifully illustrated by Mirko Hanak, tells the story of two kingfishers and their family.
Written by Karel Novy. Illustrated by Mirko Hanak. First American edition, 1968. Funk & Wagnalls, New York.
The Kingfishers is one of the loveliest books I've carried, and the text is ideal for any young reader who loves animals and nature.
"This is the first publication in English of a book from Czechoslovakia which can readily be regarded as a major contribution to stories of animal life. With fascinating detail and insight into wildlife, Karel Novy tells the story of Or and Kik, two kingfishers, and of one year during which they have to find a new home and raise a family. The dangers and trials of their existence make a dramatic and moving story."
Karel Novy (1890 - 1980) was an award-winning Czech author of wildlife stories, and this story is based on his observations of his childhood favorite birds, the kingfishers. He was also chief editor of the Children's Book Publishing House of Prague.
Mirko Hanak (1921 - 1971) was one of the Czech Republic's most-recognized artists, and blended Chinese watercolor technique with traditional Czech illustration.
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Condition*: Very Good/Very Good. Dust jacket: Closed tear on the front left corner; top corners are bumped; slight edgewear along the spine; minor ruffling along the top edge; slight soiling on back from handling.
* Based on guidelines of the Independent Online Booksellers' Association.
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