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📚 Featured Books: • Adventure Over Thunder Mountain • Kella and the Sky Dances • Princess Maja and the Zmaj • A Moon Dragon for Emmaline
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Every great children’s story begins with a spark of imagination, and sometimes that spark is found deep in the traditions of folklore. In the upcoming Roderick’s Perilous Journey, author M. M. Elmendorf Hopson draws upon the rich myths of both Wales and Russia to bring her characters to life in ways that feel both timeless and new.
🐉 The Welsh Dragon Tradition
Dragons have long been symbols of Wales—strength, courage, and resilience woven into their national identity. Young Roderick, the Welsh dragon at the heart of our tale, reflects that spirit, though his journey is not about conquest but about friendship, sacrifice, and stepping beyond what is familiar.
❄️ The Snow Maiden: Snegurka’s Legacy
Perhaps the most intriguing folkloric influence is Snegurka, or the Snow Maiden, a figure beloved in Russian tales. Traditionally, she is depicted as a girl made of snow, often innocent and tragic, destined to melt away when she encounters human love.
In Roderick’s Perilous Journey, M. M. Elmendorf Hopson has reimagined Snegurka while honoring her roots. Rather than a passive figure, this Snow Maiden becomes a true friend and driving force of the story—her fate entwined with Roderick’s courage. By weaving together classic motifs with fresh storytelling, Snegurka transforms from folklore into a character children can empathize with and root for.
🎨 Bringing Folklore to Life in Art
Words alone could never capture the full beauty of this tale, which is why we are so grateful for the incredible talents of Leo Chen. His art style and masterful use of color breathe life into every page—capturing icy landscapes, fiery volcanoes, and the delicate magic of Snegurka herself. Each illustration feels like a window into a world where folklore and imagination meet.
✨ Stay Connected
Roderick’s Perilous Journey is launching later this year, and we can’t wait to share more glimpses as the story continues to unfold. Subscribe today to keep up to date with this release and all of the imaginative projects Ford Mountain Publishing is bringing to life.
📚 Together, we’re building stories that inspire, delight, and stay with readers for years to come.
A dragon. A snow maiden. A journey through fire and frost.
We’re thrilled to announce the upcoming launch of Roderick’s Perilous Journey—a whimsical, classic-style children’s tale brought to life through words, art, and imagination.
Story by: M. M. Elmendorf Hopson
Art by: Leo Chen
Activities & Adventures by: D. B. Hopson
This enchanting tale follows Roderick, a young Welsh dragon, as he braves the wild Kamchatka Peninsula to save his friend Snegurka, the snow maiden. With friendship, courage, and a touch of folklore magic, Roderick’s journey promises to warm hearts and spark imaginations across generations.
🌟 A Sneak Peek into the World of Roderick
We’re inviting you to step behind the scenes and be part of the creative process! Below are two early preview illustrations by the incredibly talented Leo Chen. These glimpses capture moments from Roderick’s adventure. They let you see how the story is coming to life—even before it’s finished.
💡 Activities, Adventures & Reader Fun
To make Roderick’s story even more magical, D. B. Hopson is designing activities and adventures that will let readers step into Roderick’s world. From puzzles and games to storytelling prompts, children will get to not only read the adventure but live it too.
🌌 Why Join Us Now?
Follow along during this stage to get exclusive updates. You’ll receive sneak peeks. You will also have the chance to watch a children’s classic being created. Your excitement and support help bring Roderick’s tale from imagination to reality.
✨ Stay tuned for the official launch date and get ready to embark on Roderick’s Perilous Journey! ✨
