Into the Kryvolis Forest: A Ukrainian fairy tale in verse

by L. Kharkiv

After their home is invaded by monsters, Bronas and Solomiya must cross the treacherous woods to a magical village. They have thirteen days to get to safety, before the Kryvolis Forest claims them and turns them into one of its beasts. The terrifying inhabitants of the woods circle them, the fear cripples their steps, but with an axe in hand and an antlered chickadee as their guide, they put one foot in front of the other and keep moving forward.

While the flesh-eating deer herds threaten their passage and kikimoras snatch at their ankles, Solomiya and Bronas persevere and find friends and hope in unlikely places.

Immersive hand-drawn ink pen illustrations invite the reader to enter the forest.

Genres: Novel In Verse, Middle Grade, Poetry, Childrens, Fantasy, Middle Grade Fantasy

208 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 15, 2026

About the author

L. Kharkiv is a Ukrainian-American author-illustrator, a New Englander with an accent. She writes fairy tales rooted in Ukrainian folklore and spends her days chasing a cat off her sketchbooks. She spent her childhood in the magnificent city of Kharkiv, and all of her summers in a tiny Ukrainian village. The woods and the fields behind her grandparents’ house now provide lifelong inspiration for her work. Her debut, Into the Kryvolis Forest, is ready to launch into the world August 15, 2026.

Reviews

[Nic & Ry Meltdownerz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you Netgalley and the author for this copy. I truly enjoyed reading this. This was super interesting, dark, sad, scary and deep.

It reminded me of Over the garden wall the mini series. It's very unique, strange and there is a lot of meaning in this as well.

I felt emotional reading this and I feel for any people who are going through the situations like the one in this book.

I am excited to see there will be more books in this universe because it's got great World buiding, great characters and I'm so intrigued with the possibilites!

Surprised by the ending but I will continue to read whatever the author writes next.

[Darya · Rating 5 out of 5]

After monstrous invaders destroy their village, Bronas and Solomiya venture into the Kryvolis Forest (literally, a crooked forest) for safety. While the monsters cannot follow them there, the forest is full of many other kinds of beasts that make the journey dangerous; and, most importantly, the forest itself is eager to claim the children. They only have 13 days to reach the hidden village of Bushanka, or else they'll lose themselves for good.

This was a really good one, told as a novel in verse and supplemented by the author's own whimsical illustrations. I really hope it reaches a broader audience. I should also emphasize that this is far from being "simply" a folktale retelling: the story is *based* on traditional motifs and imagery from Slavic and broader European folklore, but it is a unique take with completely new dynamics and voice.

And something to muse on, just for myself: Ukrainian traditional storytelling and literary tradition are actually replete with stories that start off with "invaders came to our village, killed everybody"; one can call it a trope in a way. There are literally Robinson-like stories that start with this trope, and stories about conquistadors in Peru that start with the same motif. In short, it seems like almost any story in Ukrainian literature can start that way, as a way of explaining the moment of leaving one's home behind; nothing new here. Why, I am wondering, does this one read so contemporarily, as if we know for sure what kind of "monsters" those invaders were?

I was glad to learn that the author is planning a few more texts exploring the same fictional storyworld; already looking forward to those!

Publication date: Aug 15, 2026.

Thanks to the author for providing me with an eARC of this title through NetGalley. The opinion above is my own.

[Cherry Berry · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the very first premise, the journey of Bronas and Solomiya feels both urgent and emotionally engaging. The thirteen-day race through the dangerous Kryvolis Forest creates a strong sense of tension, while the richly imagined creatures from flesh eating deer to lurking kikimoras suggest a world that is both terrifying and fascinating. What stands out most is the balance between fear and hope. Despite the constant dangers, the protagonists continue moving forward, finding unexpected allies and moments of courage along the way. The inclusion of an antlered chickadee as their guide adds a touch of wonder and originality to an otherwise perilous adventure.

[Teresa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley, Independent Book Publishers Association, and L. Kharkiv for the opportunity to read Into the Kryvolis Forest in exchange for an honest review.

"Sometimes, when you survive monsters,/you lose your voice./And Sometimes, you grow wings and claws" (187).

This illustrated story utilizes Ukrainian Folklore and a poetic verse style to tell its tale. The author offers a very specific note before the story begins that this book is a metaphor for the recent Ukraine-Russia war. The author reflects about a childhood of whimsy in the stories and Folklore that filled the country, only to be invaded.

The story follows Solomiya and Bronas, friends whose home was attacked by monsters. After seeing the terror of the attack and not having people left, the children have one option left: venture through the Kryvolis Forest (Twisted Forest) to find a magical village where they can live in peace. Their journey must be completed within thirteen days, otherwise they may find themselves becoming a part of the forest itself.

Along the way, there are still monsters, but also some interesting mythical beings that seem like they just aim for their own peace, and even a guide for the children. If you are familiar with pan-Slavic traditions, you may see some interesting familiarity with some of the creatures.

The story makes an extended metaphor for the fears of the current Ukraine-Russia war. The monsters are the soldiers attacking the villages and they continue to attack. The other creatures are representative of the other people who have suffered from the attacks. The guide is like the person trying to help those who have been devastated to find a safe place and peace. The imagery reflects the memories of the experiences that one who has experienced a wartime trauma may have gone through. The author draws their own illustrations that really add to the allure of the Folklore itself.

This is a very thought-provoking story-in-verse. I am excited to see it is part of a larger writing collection to come that continues the extended metaphor, sharing this intense experience in a creative, even more frivolous way. I would recommend this book for somewhat older children, maybe 10-12 for the Folklore aspect, and even 14-18 for teens who are aiming to look for the deeper meaning within and behind the story. Also an excellent read for those interested in history.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher.

[Kylie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.

Into the Kryvolis Forest was a beautiful, haunting read. At times it was heartbreaking because of the emotional journey the characters endure, but it was also filled with hope, courage, and resilience.

What first drew me to this book was its rich Ukrainian and Slavic folklore, which is a particular passion of mine, and it exceeded my expectations. I especially loved the inclusion of Baba Yaga, her iconic house on chicken legs, and the mention of a kikimora. Seeing these familiar figures and creatures woven so naturally into the story made the world feel authentic, magical, and wonderfully eerie.

Beyond the folklore, I also appreciated the deeper question the story asks: who are the real monsters? Bronas and Solomiya are forced to flee into the forest after their village is attacked, and while they encounter terrifying creatures throughout their journey, the story reminds us that humans can sometimes be far more monstrous than the creatures of legend.

The verse format made the story flow beautifully, and the author's illustrations added even more depth to the experience. Bronas and Solomiya were easy characters to root for, and I found myself completely invested in their journey through the mysterious Kryvolis Forest.

This is a moving and memorable story that blends folklore, fantasy, and emotion into something truly special. I would highly recommend it to anyone who loves Ukrainian and Slavic folklore, dark fairy tales, and lyrical storytelling.

I will definitely be looking out for more books from this author in the future. Their storytelling, beautiful writing, and love of folklore have made me excited to see what they create next.

[Mayflower · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a lovely little read about two children journeying through the dreaded Kryvolis Forest after their home is rampaged by invading monsters. While I love fairy tale/folklore inspired stories, I haven't read quite as many with Slavic origins, so I greatly enjoyed the Ukrainian roots to this. I loved the forest folklore setting, from antlered chickadees to Baba Yaga-style chicken leg houses, and enjoyed looking up some of the creatures/terms I was more unfamiliar with (and was pleased with the ones I did recognise!).

This is written in verse, which is not typically my thing and took me a couple pages to get the feel for, but after that I ended up finding it very cozy and soothing, and I honestly really enjoyed it. It was well-done and ended up immersing me in the story in a way normal prose usually doesn't.

The artwork is lovely as well. I was instantly intrigued after hearing it compared to Edward Gorey's work, since I devoured the John Bellairs books he illustrated as a child and find his work nostalgic, and the art here held up to the comparison. I kept wishing I were reading it in print so I could more properly enjoy the artwork. It had just the right folkloric, slightly scary style I enjoyed from Gorey.

Overall, I enjoyed this! It's short, and due to the illustrations and verse format, technically it's even shorter, so it's a quick read. The storytelling and setting is wonderfully immersive and I can certainly see my siblings and I enjoying this when we were younger (not to mention now!).

Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for providing a digital ARC of this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.

[Tobie Bird · Rating 4 out of 5]

I stumbled upon this whilst browsing Netgalley looking for a book aimed at middle grade readers for a reading challenge, and was very pleasantly surprised!

It's a novel in verse, but more of a free verse than in strict meter or rhyme scheme, and centres the tale of two children who seek a mythical safe settlement in the titular Kryvolis forest after monsters destroy their homes and kill their families. It's full of weird creatures from Ukrainian folklore, with creepy illustrations by the author throughout.

I was really engaged throughout - it's the first time in a while I've read an entire book through in one sitting. There's not a big overarching plot, it's more episodic in nature, which I think is good for younger readers, but there are some threads that run through the whole book - primarily the transformations of the two main characters.

I recommend this to adults as well as children - it's very different to most books, reading like a mix of Mary Soon Lee's The Sign of the Dragon and Premee Mohamed's The Butcher of the Forest.

[Kira K · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thoughts:
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I hadn’t read a modern fairy tale like this before and this one feels quite timely. Bronas and Solomiya are forced into the forest by monsters invading their village, destroying and killing as they go which reflects the real experiences of many Ukrainian children (and too many others in occupied and warring areas). The stories they had been told by family members growing up didn’t dissuade them when there was little choice and the lack of human/adult presence throughout lends itself well to fairytales and reality. The different creatures throughout the forest are well described and easy to imagine, and most matched my imagination to the images when provided. The use of illustration throughout in sharp dark lines added to the eeriness of the tale and the doubt as to how the journey for Bronas and Solomiya would end.

Favourite Quote:
“I guess, sometimes,
monsters don't need reasons
to tear your world apart.”

[Alyssa · Rating 4.5 out of 5]

This is a beautiful, very emotional tale that felt very therapeutic in its message. The verse format really helps to convey the intensity of each new encounter in the forest as well as the transformation the children experience along the way. I loved all the different rarely-seen creatures from Ukranian folklore that got to make an appearance, as well as the creatures like Ptah, the guardian chickadee with tiny antlers, who seem to be the author's own invention. I also appreciate that, like traditional fairy tales, this story does not go out of its way to explain itself beyond the basic rules ("We must reach the hidden village im 13 days"). Magic doesn't always need a system, a world doesn't need to account for every part of itself for the important things in the STORY to remain. I am definitely intrigued to see the rest of the author's work in the world of Kryvolis Forest as it comes out next year.

[Victoria H · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. The illustrations shine - too bad the cover doesn't look quite as nice as the illustrations inside the book. But they're truly gorgeous and are integrated so well with the story.

I don't think I've read a book like this before, at least not since I was a child. I thought this book was masterfully written and showed an elegant control of the language that I'm frankly jealous of. I even enjoyed reading the foreword at the beginning of the book.

I liked each of the characters, the twists and turns, the incorporation of recognizable elements to me and yet some elements that are more uniquely Ukrainian. I could also clearly see the effect of current events which I think also increased my understanding of this book. I think this book can be enjoyed by all ages - children and adults. I'd love to heard it read aloud - I hope there will be an audiobook perhaps?

[Chimene · Rating 5 out of 5]

Breathtakingly beautiful both in writing and illustration.

There is something warm and familiar in the writing itself. I was transported back to reading under the blankets as a child, knowing full well I would be in trouble if found out yet not being able to resist one more chapter.

The story is written in verse. I've not read much in this style and it fascinated me how so much could be conveyed in a short amount of writing.

The pacing was wonderful. A race through a magical forest, meeting mythical beasts amd monsters.

The front cover is stark but interesting. Initially, I was unsure what drew me in but it certainly grabbed my attention. Every time I look at the cover, I find another interesting detail.

The author has done a wonderful job here. Vivid and imaginative story telling at it's best.

I would definitely love to read more from L. Kharkiv.

[Patricia Stilphen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Into the Kryvolis Forest is a beautiful tale in verse. As the children delve further into the forbidden woods, the reader encounters fantastical Ukranian creatures that are unique and memorable. The author's detailed sketches enhance the lyrical descriptions of every new beast, friend, and foe. I love the strength of the main character and the stout loyalty of her friend. They are an example of long lasting childhood friendship despite terrible situations. The author weaves such a strong story of determination, self growth, and hope using characters rooted in folk lore, spooky setting, and suspenseful moments. I thoroughly enjoyed the journey into the Kryvokis Forest.

[Cloud · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.

This was so beautiful. The tale of Solomiya and Bronas is one of resilience, overcoming and accepting the ways pain and hardship might change us, sometimes with unexpected gifts. A dark fairy tale seen through the eyes of a child, that intermingles folklore, legendary creatures and all too real threats. The illustrations and the language in the book make it all the more fascinating. I have read it quickly because I couldn't stop, enveloped by the adventures and perils in the depths of Kryvolis Forest and its incredible creatures. A highly recommended read to all.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

An eloquently written tale about the journey of Solomiya and Bronas who are thrust into the dark and mysterious Kryvolis Forest after devastation takes their homes. Here they meet many creatures, some out to hunt them and others to potentially guide them to safety. Throughout their journey you will see who they come to trust and how they survive the wrath of the monsters. Every phrase and word leads to such imagery that pulls you right into the story. Every thoughtful metaphor will pull at your heartstrings but also make you smile as you root for our protagonists to make it out alive.

[Melanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I would like to thank L. Kharkiv \ Independent Book Publishers Association and NetGalley for a free eARC of this title in exchange for an honest review.

This functions as a novel in verse of sorts as I thought it had a very easy and conversational style that I don't really associate with fairy tales. However, it did have all the cultural significance of fairy tales and I enjoyed the tone and the vibes. It was an easy and enjoyable read.

[Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow... this was such a heartfelt and emotional story.
Each line carries so much meaning and the characters are adorable.
At first I was afraid this was just another story where every few pages a new beast is introduced, but somehow in this book it felt right.
The symbolism for war, fleeing from war and being afraid to become the monster are very apparent.
I loved reading this and the drawings are stunning.

Thanks for sharing this book with me through NetGalley <3

[Singe · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks to NetGalley for the arc
4⭐️
This was a unique story following two kids as their village is being invaded by horrible monsters. They escaped to the mysterious Kryvolis Forest. This was an interesting story told in verse. Learning about Ukrainian folklore was fun, a nice change from Grimm Fairytales.
Overall an epic quest for safety.

[Sara · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story is magic on magic on magic. The poetry, the drawings, the imagery, the heart pounding pace, the hope, and the heart of this story are a true form of magic. The author harnesses all of her creative gifts to honor her Ukranian heritage with this race through the Kryvolis Forest. As she warns, Enter if you dare.

[Alicia · Rating 5 out of 5]

A story beautifully written in verse, filled with rich imagery and Ukrainian folklore. The illustrations are wonderful and add so much to the story itself. My husband picked up the book to flip through it, and ended up reading the whole thing in one setting. We look forward to reading future releases from L. Kharkiv!

[Anne Secher · Rating 4.5 out of 5]

FRTC

[Annette Jordan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Into the Kryvolis Forest by L. Kharkiv is an illustrated middle grade novel in verse inspired by Ukrainian Folklore, telling the story of a young boy and girl who flee into the Forest in the aftermath of a terrible night that sees their village invaded and their homes destroyed. Seeking safety they have just thirteen days to find a hidden magical village before the magic of the woods transforms them permanently by claiming them as its own and turning them into magical beasts.
This book is beautiful but does go to some dark places, so may be frightening for younger readers, with vivid descriptions of creatures like flesh eating deer, and depictions of the transformations that the children are undergoing that border on body horror territory. The illustrations add to the spooky vibe, they are creepy in the best possible way. The story flows well, the free verse style is very effective and I think it added to the storytelling, almost compelling me to keep turning those pages and though it is aimed at the middle grades, I would have no hesitation in recommending it to older readers too.
A timely tale and one that I hope many readers will be able to appreciate, I read and reviewed an ARC courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher, all opinions are my own.