Friends and Rivals / Ystävät ja viholliset

Friends and Rivals is a powerful and beautifully illustrated bilingual English-Finnish picture book that explores sibling rivalry, conflict, forgiveness, and reconciliation. Written by Tuula Pere and illustrated by Iva Dukic, this engaging story follows two princes-Victor and Otto-whose childhood friendship turns into bitter rivalry as they grow older. Both want to succeed their father on the throne, and their competition eventually divides the entire kingdom.

When the rivalry escalates, Prince Otto is imprisoned in the dungeon, and King Victor rules alone in fear and suspicion. The once-joyful land becomes troubled and silent. But hope arrives in the form of a courageous child who dares to question the king, seek the truth, and bring compassion back into the royal brothers' hearts. With the help of a mysterious wanderer and a magical lantern, the child inspires the princes to remember their past, forgive one another, and work together to rebuild the kingdom.

This bilingual edition presents the full story in parallel English and Finnish, making it ideal for multilingual families, bilingual education, cultural exchange, and literacy programs.

"Tuula Pere delves into the complex dynamics of sibling rivalry through a captivating children's narrative, enriched by Iva Dukic's evocative illustrations."

- Literary Titan

"A truly extraordinary tale about friendship, power, and forgiveness - worthy of a Shakespearian play."

- Outstanding Creator Awards

"An insightful story showing how rivalry for power can corrupt even the closest relationships, teaching children to think before they act and to forgive."

- Readers' Favorite

Blending emotional depth with vivid artwork, Friends and Rivals gently introduces children to themes of jealousy, power, empathy, and making amends. It highlights the importance of listening, understanding, and believing that even long-broken relationships can be healed.

Perfect for bilingual readers, schools, libraries, and families seeking meaningful stories that open discussions about emotions, forgiveness, and cooperation.