The Lad on the Moor Series: Poetry for Children Title: The Lad on the Moor Author: Annette von Droste-Hülshoff Artist: Reinhard Michl Extent: 24 pp, 4/c throughout Format: 210 x 280mm Pub. price: EUR 14,50 Pub. date: February 2010 German ISBN: 978-3-934029-37-8 Ages: 7 and up

Material available: German review copy

THE STORY:

In her eerily beautiful ballad Annette von Droste-Hülshoff has created a horrific scenario: On his way home a young boy must cross a frightening moor where trees turn into threatening ghosts, roots into creepy demons, and reeds into dangerous spearheads – his march through the gurgling marshes becomes a true test of courage ...

THE AUTHOR:

Annette von Droste-Hülshoff (1797-1848), one of Germany’s most important poets, led a calm and protected life. Born at Schloss Hülshoff near the city of Muenster, she grew up in a conservative home, enjoying, however, an all-round education. The novel „The Jew’s Beech“ („Die Judenbuche“ - 1842) and her poems (1838 and 1844) made her known all over the country. „The Lad on the Moor“, her most popular ballad, is a good example of her talent to express in gripping verses the mysteries and secrets of nature. Often her native countryside served as a source of inspiration.

THE ARTIST:

Reinhard Michl (1948) was born in Niederbayern, Germany. After his apprenticeship as a typesetter he enrolled at the Munich Academy of Arts. During his studies he also began working for various publishing houses. He illustrated several children’s books and received many awards. In „The Lad on the Moor“ Michl has created intriguing and spooky illustrations.