Christina Balit
CHRISTINA BALIT is a graduate of Questers Theatre School, the Chelsea Art College and the Royal College of Art. An acclaimed children's book artist, she has always longed to illustrate the Bible. She has received widespread praise for books including Blodin the Beast, Ishtar and Tammuz, The Twelve Labours of Hercules and The Kingdom of the Sun for which she won the English Association Non-Fiction Illustration Award in 2002. Of British and Armenian descent, Christina spent her childhood years in the ancient lands of the Middle East - the very landscapes where so many of the Bible's tales are set. Christina's first book for Lion, The Lion Bible: Everlasting Stories was a dream come true. She described the Old Testament as a 'licence to be Christina' where she could stamp her trademark style and interpretation, and the New Testament as awe-inspiring. Christina has since gone on to illustrate the successful The Lion Book of Tales & Legends and The Lion Illustrated Bible for Children.
Praise for Christina Balit
'There is a strong sense that this is about real people and real suffering, enhanced by Christina Balit's evocative illustrations, sandy browns and golds, sparked with sage and ultramarine... The feel is dark and powerfully Middle Eastern.'
Times Educational Supplement about Easter: The Everlasting Story
'Christina Balit's rich and colourful illustrations are instantly enchanting and engaging.'
Junior Education about The Lion Bible: Everlasting Stories
'The stories are brought to life by Christina Balit's stunning, jewel-like illustrations that enliven and illuminate the page. A gift to be treasured!'
My Weekly about The Lion Bible: Everlasting Stories
'Christina Balit's artwork is exceptional and mesmerising, giving the stories new life.'
RE News about The Lion Bible: Everlasting Stories
' Tales and Legends is a rare and sparkling jewel among a wealth of children's books. Its charm, illustrations and carefully written stories make it stand out from the rest...'
Methodist Recorder about The Lion Book of Tales & Legends