The Vanishing Sea

“Tells an accessible story of what has often been described as one of the twentieth century’s greatest ecological disasters…offers up a portrait of the origins of the Aral Sea, the people who once depended on their “caring mother” for fishing and drinking water, and the Soviet-era cotton-growing schemes that would lead to its demise.” — The Horn Book “After giving her story visual punch by opening with a series of maps that show the Aral Sea, Mirtalipova goes on… to celebrate its past [and] lament its modern fate.” — Booklist★— “A moving, memorable book that washes over readers with a call to stewardship.” — Kirkus, Starred Review★— “A real-world The Giving Tree–like story grounded in the natural world.” — Publishers Weekly, Starred Review★– “Offers a poignant and beautifully illustrated tale of warning… . the illustrations reflect both cultural heritage and environmental transformation. Mirtalipova’s detailed yet raw artwork is rich in symbolism and texture, with a handcrafted feel that deepens the story’s message. [T]his book will inspire young readers to care for Earth’s resources with intention and respect.” – School Library Journal

Dinara Mirtalipova is an award-winning folk illustrator and designer who was born and raised in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. Her whimsical and instantly recognizable handcrafted work is inspired by Uzbek and Russian folklore and culture, which has been passed from generation to generation by her ancestors. She is the illustrator of Woven of the World—which received a BolognaRagazzi Special Mention for Nonfiction, a BIBF Ananas Grand Prix, and a Society of Illustrators Book Silver Medal—among many other books. She works and lives in northeast Ohio.