Untu and the Secret of the Heart of Winter

By Nora Surojegin Pirkko-Liisa Surojegin

A bewitching tale about the power of friendship. Untu and the Secret of the Heart of Winter is a beautiful and beguiling picture book for the whole family.

What is the secret of the light of Christmas? Tiny, elfin Untu Willi heads north from his seaside hut to unravel this mystery. On his way, he encounters a variety of animals and creatures that help him in his quest, such as Kekri, ruler of the forest, the leaf fairy Niiu, and a bear settling down for its winter’s nap. Not all of the creatures are so helpful, however. As he skis across the snowy expanses towards the fells of Lapland, Untu encounters the infamous Ironworm, who tries to thoroughly blacken Untu’s mood. Untu is not so easily discouraged, however, and in the end, he achieves his goal. Atop a fell awash in the glow of the northern lights, Untu meets the father of Christmas, who reveals the secret of the light of Christmas.

Pirkko-Liisa Surojegin is a well-known illustrator; four works featuring her illustrations have been selected as Book Pick of the Year. Her daughter Nora Surojegin is a graphic designer.

Publishing information

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About the author

Nora Surojegin (b.1979) is a graphic designer. She is also the writer of the atmospheric Finnish tale Untu and the Secret Heart of the Winter, created together with her mother, illustrator Pirkko-Liisa Surojegin.

Pirkko-Liisa Surojegin (b. 1950) is an illustrator, artist and author. The artist is renowned for her delicate and precise illustration style, which charms both children and adults alike. Surojegin graduated from the University of Art and Design, Helsinki (now called Aalto University), in 1977 where she studied in the field of graphic design.Surojegin began her work as an illustrator in the late seventies and went on to illustrate many works that include both school books and children’s picture books. Her esteemed skills in picture books showcase intricate, authentic and characterful drawings inspired by the Finnish landscape. Mesmerizing works, the style the books display has become Surojegin’s trademark.