Magical Creatures of Ukrainian Myth: Pest Spirits — 336‑page Ukrainian Mythology Guidebook

Enter the eerie yet deeply fascinating world of Magical Creatures of Ukrainian Myth: Pest Spirits by Dara Kornii, a rich and beautifully illustrated volume from Vivat published in 2020. Spanning 336 pages with a sturdy hardcover format (~ 170×240 mm) and colored illustrations, this book introduces young readers (and older ones who are curious) to spirits of mischief, darkness, and folklore that once explained the unexplainable in daily life.

From night‑creatures who steal children’s sleep to malady‑spirits like the “one‑eyed hwatyvk” that take away a family’s prosperity; from unseen sisters of illness and pestilence to spectral beings who rob mental peace — each creature is more than a frightful figure. Kornii’s careful research and evocative storytelling render these myths not just as tales, but as lessons about fear, respect, nature, and how our ancestors made sense of danger with myth. Bright, detailed illustrations give form to these elusive beings, making the book both a learning tool and a visual feast.

Perfect for curious young minds, lovers of folklore and myth, teachers, and parents. This book makes a great gift, library inclusion, or companion for those delving into the roots of Ukrainian belief systems. Whether for bedtime chills or serious reflection, Pest Spirits reveals the darker side of the magical world — and reminds us that such legends were once very real to people who lived with them.