The Little Mermaid by H. C. Andersen
“The Little Mermaid” continues to resonate through its profound exploration of universal themes such as desire, identity, unrequited love, and concepts of an afterlife or reincarnation, all centred around the adventurous spirit of the little mermaid, who courageously navigates love and sacrifice. Though shaped by an era whose social and moral values may seem inappropriate or antiquated today, Andersen’s tale remains powerful and relevant.
Lomaev’s evocative illustrations vividly reflect Andersen’s captivating descriptions of the undersea kingdom, rendered with a dreamlike intensity that invites readers of all ages to immerse themselves in its haunting beauty. His artwork captures the little mermaid’s perilous journey and inner struggles as she faces the far-reaching consequences of her choices and encounters the often harsh yet exhilarating human world, evoking both fear and hope.
“The Little Mermaid” is the first book in the “Illustrated Classics” collection.
The book is printed on FSC®-certified paper and produced with CO₂ compensation.
Published: July 2025
Size: 245 × 305 mm
Pages: 48 pp
Hardcover
FSC MIX / CO₂ Certified
ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR
Anton Lomaev is a renowned book artist and illustrator from Vitebsk, Belarus, known for his richly detailed and emotionally vivid works. Educated at the Faculty of Graphic Arts at the Academy of Arts in St. Petersburg, he has illustrated numerous classic tales, including works by Tolkien, Sherlock Holmes, and notably, Hans Christian Andersen. Over the past fifteen years, Lomaev has independently created award-winning books from concept to print, specialising in children’s literature. In 2018, he received the Golden Apple at the Biennial of Illustration Bratislava for his original book, Lullaby for a Little Pirate.
Anton Lomaev has been nominated for the prestigious Hans Christian Andersen Award 2026, recognising his exceptional contributions to children’s book illustration worldwide.
The Hans Christian Andersen Award is the highest international distinction for creators of children’s books. Presented biennially by IBBY (International Board on Books for Young People), the award honours one author and one illustrator whose complete works have made a lasting contribution to children’s literature.
NOMINEE FOR THE
HANS CHRISTIAN ANDERSEN AWARD 2026
CO₂-compensated publishing
Available at your local bookstore
MADE WITH CARE.
PRINTED ON FSC® Mix PAPER
Styled With
PRODUCTION
Printed on FSC® Mix certified paper in the EU and crafted with care, our books combine high-quality production with sustainable materials to ensure a long-lasting product.
MISSION
At Beluga Books, it is our mission to create books of high aesthetic quality, where both the artwork and the text draw readers in, spark curiosity, and ideally create meaningful connections across generations. We aim to combine quality and sustainability through stories that stand the test of time.
VISION
We dream of a world where books are treasured not just for the tales they tell, but for the care and artistry behind them. By championing thoughtful design and eco-friendly publishing, we hope to nurture a deep, lasting love for printed books in harmony with the natural world.