Mythical Creatures Bestiary: Slavic Mythology & Folklore: Illustrated Encyclopedia of Legendary Monsters, Beasts, Spirits & Forgotten Ancient Beings

By Oskar Baliński

An Illustrated Bestiary of Slavic Mythology and Folklore

This large-format illustrated bestiary explores the world of Slavic mythology through creatures preserved in folklore, regional belief, and historical accounts. Rather than modern fantasy retellings, the book presents mythological beings as they were traditionally described, named, and understood across different Slavic regions.

Each entry is built around descriptions found in folklore and early records, focusing on how these beings were perceived within everyday life, nature, and belief systems. Where regional differences exist, the book presents a considered interpretation based on the most commonly preserved traits, offering clarity without flattening the richness of tradition.

The book is designed as a visual and informational compendium. Every creature is accompanied by a full-color illustration created specifically for this volume. The artwork is based on folkloric descriptions and symbolic motifs rather than modern fantasy aesthetics, emphasizing atmosphere, form, and character while remaining respectful to traditional sources.

This is not a fictional narrative or a simplified retelling of myths. It is a reference-style bestiary intended for readers interested in Slavic folklore, mythology, and legendary beings. Entries can be read in any order, making the book suitable both for continuous reading and for browsing individual creatures.

Printed in a large format, the book is meant to be experienced as a physical object as well as a source of knowledge. The size allows space for detailed illustrations and clear presentation, making it ideal for exploration, learning, and visual immersion.

Why this book stands apart:

- Large-format illustrated volume
Paperback 8.5 11 inches and hardcover 8.25 11 inches, designed to showcase detailed artwork and clear text

- Full-color illustrations grounded in folklore
Each illustration is inspired by traditional descriptions and motifs, avoiding modern fantasy reinterpretation

- Clear encyclopedic structure
Every creature is presented in eight consistent sections:
Name & Origins
Physical Description
Behavior & Abilities
Habitat & Territory
Diet & Feeding Behavior or Methods of Harm
Sightings & Encounters
Legends & Folklore
Theories & Explanations

- Rooted in Slavic tradition
Based on regional folklore, historical belief, and preserved accounts rather than modern fiction

- Designed for flexible reading
Each entry stands on its own and can be explored in any order

- Created as a cultural and visual reference
For readers fascinated by mythology, folklore, and legendary creatures, whether reading for knowledge, inspiration, or pure curiosity

This volume invites you to explore a mythological world shaped by nature, belief, and memory, and to encounter these beings as they were once imagined, described, and remembered.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: B0GDDQRN48
• ISBN13: 9798241398925
• Release Date: December 2025
• Publisher: Independently Published
• Length: 172 Pages
• Weight: 0.91 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.4" x 8.5" x 11.0"