Illustrator(s)
Pasi Pitkänen
Publication date
5/2025
Publisher
WSOY
Format info
224 pages

Ouroboros 2. The Guardian Snake

Ouroboros 2. Haltiakäärme

The mesmerizing Runeberg Junior nominated fantasy series continues! The train is travelling along a new tunnel but danger is imminent! Rune and Dia must race to save everyone on the train, but have they been given an impossible task?!

The Snake Train speeds perilously through the new tunnel in complete darkness for all its lanterns have been extinguished! Only Niji, the Rainbow Snake, can save the train and its passengers, but first it must be taken to the very tail end of the train. The rumour has it that the end is impossible to reach. The task of taking Niji through the train’s countless carriages to the possibly non-existing end befalls upon Rune and Dia. In addition to Niji, Rune is also holding onto a secret – but at what point does it begin to turn into a lie?

Rights sold

option publisher: Danish (Bogoo)

Material

Finnish edition
Full English translation set in layout (Book 1)

Prizes & Nominations

nominee, Runeberg Junior Prize 2025 (Book 1)
nominee, Lasten LukuVarkaus Award (Book 1 / winner tba in June 25)

Reviews

‘Silja Sillanpää has created a fascinating and adventurous story set in a unique underground world. Although long, the book captivated my attention until the end. There is humour in the text that made both adults and children spontaneously burst out laughing. The book is recommended for ages nine and up, but read by an adult, it works for younger readers, too. Pasi Pitkänen’s fine illustrations bring the story to life and there is plenty to explore.’ – Pauliina Grönholm, Helsingin sanomat newspaper

‘From the very first page, Ouroboros captivates the readers in its world of fantasy. This mystical tale sheds its skin multiple times on a seemingly non-stop journey that may, at its core, be a metaphor for modern times and life itself. The story flows from one atmosphere to another. Frightening and distressing situations give way to joy and bright moments through humor. The dark-toned, powerful illustrations invite readers along on an unforgettable journey. – Runeberg Junior Prize Jury

Series