s best fairy tale, at the age of eighteen, remained forever the author of a single work and is still regarded as one of the most mysterious Russian literary figures.
.
.In the interpretation of the Mstiora artist Vadimir Nemov, an outstanding master of Russian lacquered miniatures, the brave Ivan, or Johnny, a peasant'
s son, the silly Tzar, the magic humpbacked horse and other characters of this merry tale appear before the reader as vivid and memorable images. Nemov'
s beautiful illustrations still further enhance the unforgettable impression of this exciting children'
s book.