Magic, Betrayal and Undying Hope in Classic Irish Myth – Newly Illustrated by Calgary Artist
The Children of Lir is a classic Irish myth about King Lir and his four sons and daughters who were changed into magical swans by their evil step mother Aoife. A tale of loss, hope and love, the story has been retold many ways over the ages and may even have been part of the inspiration for the ballet Swan Lake and the story King Lear.
Alexandra Soranescu was inspired to illustrate the story while studying in Ireland. The illustration style that she was developing suited the story’s water and air themes beautifully and the storyline inspired her.
Soranescu says. “In today’s world where there is so much crime and violence, this book will teach readers the importance of staying united in peace and love.” She hopes that it will inspire the values of patience, forgiveness and the true power of brotherly solidarity. The Children of Lir is Soranescu’s first illustrated book.
Alexandra Soranescu is a Visual Design Specialist and Illustrator who lives in Calgary, Alberta. She received her Bachelors in Visual Communications, Honours Degree in Ireland. Her passion for art and design began when she was very young when she discovered her mother’s colourful anatomy books and her older sister’s Hans Christian Anderson storybooks. In college, Alexandra also developed ink wash and black pen line techniques.
