Story, Kim Märkl
Illustrations, Ina Kohlschovsky

It is the year 1607 in Agra, India. Shiba, a snake charmer, lives with his mother and cobra in a grass-roofed hut. One day, in the marketplace of Agra, Empress Mumtaz Mahal is captivated by Shiba’s snake-charming prowess and invites him to perform at the palace. The boy’s success, however, causes jealousy among a fellow artist and puts his life at risk.

The Snake Charmer combines the history and culture of India with a unique story and exquisite illustrations.