Friend of the North

It’s summer in the Arctic, the land of polar bears, and a thrilling chase for poachers is underway!

Twelve-year-old Daniel just arrived on the remote Artic Island of Spitsbergen, ready to spend a relaxing vacation with his favourite aunt, surrounded by reindeer, puffins and fjords. But things take a dark turn when he discovers that someone is killing polar bears. To make matters worse, the local police are unable to identify the perpetrators.

What can you do in such a scenario, especially when you have free time, the spirit of an explorer, and an aunt who is a journalist and knows the island like the back of her hand?

It’s a beautiful and poignant story about man’s violent and reckless interference with nature. Although its message is powerful and hard-hitting, it is easy to immerse yourself in the story. Ilona Wiśniewska’s light pen brilliantly catches the atmosphere, feelings of the characters, and the unique aura of the North.

Magellan Award in the children’s book category – distinction
Hestia Journey Literary Award – nomination