he Sea King lives deep under the sea in an exquisite crystal palace. He rarely leaves his halls, except to search out a human victim. One day, the Sea King does a very big favor for a king from the land above. In return, however, he extracts a promise. And without realizing it, the king of the land has promised the Sea King his newborn son....

This wonderful tale contains many rich elements of folklore-a talking eagle who can do magical deeds, a frightening witch with iron teeth, a kind and honest prince, and twelve beautiful maidens who can turn into swans. These threads are masterfully woven into a dramatic and stunningly illustrated tale, one which readers of all ages will enjoy.