Representing the best
Finnish authors abroad
Finnish authors abroad
This abundant and exciting fantasy began when 12-year-old Rune set off to search for his long-lost mother. The mesmerizing underground quest for the truth that lies in the depths of the earth continues!
The third part in the thrilling and awarded underground adventure centres around the powerful Flame Snake. But can the children find it, and whom shall it choose as its bearer?
The Serpent Train’s engine swallowed the final carriage and the train circles on unsteady rails. But there is hope when a map of all the underground tunnels is found. It raises a new, burning question: could people finally steer the train? To even try, a special Flame Snake is needed. Rune’s snake Niji must stay in the engine room, so him and Dia are joined by Aspis as they sets out to search the train for the Flame Snake. But when they enter the first carriage, they find it in terrible state— even the runes on the doors between the carriages have been destroyed…
Woven by a skilled creative duo, this fantastical story draws readers into a web of riddles and secrets.
German: Oetinger (3-book-deal)
option publisher: Danish: Bogoo
Finnish edition
Full English translation set in layout (Book 1)
winner, Lasten LukuVarkaus Award (Book 1)
nominee, Runeberg Junior Prize 2025 (Book 1)
‘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
‘The Ouroboros [in Germany: Serpentis] series by Silja Sillanpää and Pasi Pitkänen is simply awesome! We immediately fell in love with it, and we knew we had to publish these titles in Germany. For readers, the series offers an immersion into an exciting, fantastic world that is brought to life by the magnificent illustrations. Rune’s and Dia’s journey is immensely gripping, and we are excited to see where these two characters will go next.’ –Dr. Iris Schubert, Senior Editor Children’s Fiction, Oetinger, Germany
