Hello, dear reader!

Before you is a book of fairy tales. I will be very happy if you read them! These stories will remind you of old acquaintances—of the beautiful Cinderella, the Snow Queen, Old Man Hottabych, and Papa Carlo, who became a storyteller. Aren’t you curious about what happened to them next, when one day they slipped out of their books and found themselves in the real world?

The heroes of my fairy tales believe that a strong dream or a great desire to help others can transport them to a magical land where miracles are possible. You will meet little Vanya, who was visited by the real composer Wolfgang Mozart. And you will learn the story of the brave boy Peter and his friend—a transparent cat, as well as a girl named Mirabelle, whose lace brought happiness to people.

The love of a boy named Alonzo for his grandmother cured her of a severe illness. And little Ilya, saddened that a shiny Christmas tree ornament had broken, gave his mother a real star from the sky.

The tale of the violinist Amato is a story about how no obstacles can prevent the great talent of a musician from flourishing. I wish for you, my dear reader, to embark on an exciting journey with Dasha and Matvey to witness the northern lights and the starry zoo.

You will discover what flowers talk about and how household items can take care of their owner and create harmony in the home. You will also read about a girl-seagull and a living mountain that dreamed of having the sea splash at its foot.

My book is called Moths of Joy. This is not just the title of one of the fairy tales—it is also my heartfelt wish that the stories you read, fluttering out of the book, bring you joy. And then, you can share that joy with your friends.