In Search of Sacha

by Manuel Guzman, Alexander Hellene (editor)

A fully painted 80 page fantasy storybook about loving parents searching for their son in a dark forest. They are Elysia and Amar, guardians of the mountains and of Sacha. They contain a pure light within them which they have passed on to their son and can only hope it will protect him during his coming of age trials. In Search of Sacha is written and designed for all ages. Young adults as well as children and parents will find something to love from this ethereal fairy tale.
Amar and Elysia, bearers of a holy light, guard the mountains in these sacred woods. They are also the parents of Sacha, a boy who finds himself in turmoil from heartbreak. In his sorrow, Sacha plunges deep into the forest where only the darkest spirits dwell, protected only by the light he shares with his parents. But will it be enough to counter the cursed darkness that lurks in these woods, and the harsh mistress who rules over it? Join Amar, Elysia, and Sacha in an unforgettable journey through an enchanted world of danger and discovery as they learn the true meaning of honor and family.

Kindle Edition

First published March 3, 2020

Reviews

[S. Pierzchala · Rating 5 out of 5]

Concept, theme and execution all come together in this unique picture book about a family contending against the forces of darkness for their son's survival. The story of Amar and Elysia's search for the missing Sacha, has the flavor of a very old folk tale, and weaves themes of responsibility, innocence, love and sacrifice into a profound and epic quest. It's told in lush, high language that doesn't talk down to kids, but also keeps adults engaged in the mystery and action.

The accomplished full-color paintings leap off the page with an intense, cinematic quality that perfectly complements the elegant prose. Furthermore, the artist's grasp of composition and human anatomy invite the reader to become lost in the dreamlike, detailed scenes. Some downsides to the work are that a few of the menacing creatures might a bit scary for younger kids, and the text font, while lovely, can be hard to read for either beginning readers or elderly eyes.

Something between a fable and an allegory, In Search of Sacha is an impressive and highly satisfying work that deserves a spot in the library of any family that appreciates the rare, the true and the beautiful.

[Christophe Rochefolle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Each page is a piece of art, the fairy tale is fabulous and poetic

[Lily · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m not sure which I enjoyed more - the gorgeous illustrations, or the entrancing story that accompanied them. This is one of those books you really need to see to understand how beautiful it is. The illustrations look like paintings that you’d expect to see hanging on someone’s walls. The story itself reads like a myth or fairy tale, with danger and monsters, but also love and caring. (Honestly, although kids are sure to enjoy this, I think adults might enjoy it even more). The book is short, but it’s so easy to get lost in the world of the story. I’ll definitely be recommending this to anyone who enjoys fairy tales!

[Naomi Cohen · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautifully illustrated coming-of-age family tale of facing heartbreak and the face of death. Each page is an amazing work of art, and the folktale-esque story is charming.