Peikko, the Foolish Ogre

This is the second book of Finnish folk tales for children, which I translated and illustrated. It was published in 2003 by Aspasia Books of Beaverton, Ontario.

These stories tell of the competitions between the foolish ogre named Peikko and a clever lad named Matti, who uses his "Finngenuity" to win all the races and contests. Some of these tales can also be found in anthologies from other countries.

I selected these 12 tales from Suomen Kansan Satuja 1 (1954) edited by K. Merikoski who, in turn, chose them from volumes he found in the Archives of Finnish Literature. It was necessary to modify the stories to make them appropriate for today's children.

These books have sticky-finger proof covers and a few Finnish words for added authenticity (with a glossary at the back.) The humorous illustrations add to the child's reading pleaure and understanding.

Some of the original pencil drawings (with matte, unframed) may be ordered via e-mail
for $50.00 Can., or $40.00 US (including postage and handling). Each mailing will also contain a complimentary copy of the book.