Dasha Tolstikova

About the Author

Dasha Tolstikova is a celebrated Russian-American author and illustrator whose evocative storytelling captures the nuances of childhood, family, and cultural transitions with warmth and authenticity. Born in Russia and now based in the United States, she draws from her own experiences of relocation and adaptation to craft narratives that resonate across generations. Tolstikova's work often blends heartfelt prose with her distinctive visual artistry, making her books beloved by young readers and adults alike. Her debut picture book, A Year Without Mom, poignantly explores a young girl's longing for her mother during a year-long separation, earning praise for its emotional depth and tender illustrations. Through her writing, Tolstikova invites readers to reflect on the bonds that sustain us amid life's changes.