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The Fool of the World and the Flying Ship: A Russian Tale

by Arthur Ransome Publisher: FARRAR STRAUSS & GIROUX

Award Winner

A Russian folktale of an unlikely quest

Regular price $21.83 USD
Regular price $36.39 USD Sale price $21.83 USD
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Hardcover New English

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Awards & Recognition

  • Award recognition

    Caldecott Medal winner

    The metadata identifies this book as the winner of the Caldecott Medal.

AlbakiReads Editorial

A Russian folktale of an unlikely quest

A royal challenge sends the Fool of the World in pursuit of a flying ship, giving this picture-book retelling a clear quest structure rooted in Russian folklore. Along the way, he encounters unusual companions, linking the journey to themes of chance, ingenuity, and fellowship. Arthur Ransome retells the tale, with illustrations by Uri Shulevitz. The 48-page hardcover offers a compact introduction to a traditional story for young readers.

Good fit for readers who enjoy

  • Children ages 4–8 encountering folktales and folklore
  • Families seeking a picture-book story built around a quest
  • Readers interested in Russian cultural tales

Themes

Russian folkloreQuestsUnusual companionsIngenuity

Based on publisher information and book metadata.

Book overview

CALDECOTT MEDAL WINNER

The Fool of the World and the Flying Ship is the Caldecott Medal-winning picture book retelling of a Russian folktale from Arthur Ransome, with illustrations by Uri Shulevitz.

When the Czar proclaims that he will marry his daughter to the man who brings him a flying ship, the Fool of the World sets out to try his luck and meets some unusual companions on the way.

Shipping & returnsShipping options, delivery timing, and our return policy.

In-stock items normally dispatch within 1–2 business days. The ZIP-code estimator on this page is informational only; the final shipping method, price, and availability are confirmed at checkout for your full order.

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Eligible items can be returned within 30 days in accordance with our return policy.

Customer reviews

M
AlbakiReads
Malaika Taylor

I highly recommend to for anyone looking for inner clarity

T
AlbakiReads
Thomas DiMassa

Great service and fast service

Great shopping experience! The book arrived quickly, was well packaged, and matched the description perfectly. I would definitely shop with you again

O
AlbakiReads
Olivia

Smooth.