Jurga Vilė, Kornelija Žalpytė. Mano draugas Hipokampas Unikornas (My Friend Hippocampus Unicorn), Vilnius: 700 eilučių, 2024. – 40 p.

One day, in the depths of the ocean, a great explosion occurs, which brings a whole herd of seahorses into the world. Among them is the protagonist of this story who stands out in the crowd – due to an unusually tall crown that makes him resemble a unicorn. Curious and sociable, he quickly makes friends. A giant, fearsome Fish invites him to perform in the Contemporary Underwater Circus, while a mysterious Cyclops, descending from above with a gleaming eye, gives him a name: Hippocampus Unicorn. Along with his siblings and a band of ragged performers from Australia, Hippocampus Unicorn will create a spectacular show in a sunken ship. You are all invited to the “Premiere”!

This is another work dedicated to animals by the Lithuanian writer and translator Jurga Vilė (b. 1977). It was created in collaboration with the Lithuanian Sea Museum as part of the children’s book series Lašas jūroje (Drop in the Ocean). Jurga Vilė is the author of eight children’s books and has been recognised with the highest awards in children’s literature both in Lithuania and beyond.

The young-generation book illustrator Kornelija Žalpytė (b. 1997) subtly conveys the diversity of aquatic life and expands the narrative about life in the water. Using a mixed creative technique – working with colours (primarily watercolour and gouache) and employing the possibilities of digital technology – she creates a colourful, authentic and entirely unique emotional illustration experience. A graduate of the Department of Graphics at Vilnius Academy of Arts, she has already illustrated several books. She actively participates in exhibitions and has held a solo exhibition of her work.
Illustrator’s portfolio: https://www.behance.net/kornelijazd8f6

Contact for rights: leidykla@700eiluciu.lt