Everything beautiful that exists in this world is created out of love. Children’s literature is not only the greatest challenge to a writer’s talent, but also a true test of the depth and sincerity of the love they carry within.
Biography
Ivan Antonovski (1990) is a writer, essayist, literary critic, and translator, and serves as an assistant professor at the Faculty of Philology “Blazhe Koneski” at Ss. Cyril and Methodius University in Skopje, where he also teaches Children’s Literature. In addition to his books for children, he is the author of several volumes of literary studies and essays, poetry collections, works of non-fiction, and translations. He has edited key anthologies and has worked as both editor and contributor to several literary and cultural journals. He is the recipient of major awards, including the “Vancho Nikoleski” Award for Best Children’s and Young Adult Book (2024), the “Zhivko Chingo” Award for Best Short Story (2023), and the “Mito Hadjivasilev – Jasmin” Award (2024), the highest state award for journalism. In 2021, he received the “Successful Youth” distinction from the President of the Republic, recognizing him as the best young scholar in the humanities.
Outstanding title:
KISSES FROM THE SKY (2024)
On a quiet December night, a simple question — How was winter born? — unfolds into a tender and imaginative story about love, warmth, and the magic of snow. Through the whispered secret of two children, young readers discover a poetic tale in which snowflakes are born from the kisses of clouds, and winter becomes a season shaped by affection, togetherness, and shared joy. Blending lyrical storytelling with emotional depth, Kisses from the Sky celebrates childhood curiosity, family bonds, first friendships, and the quiet wisdom passed from one generation to the next.
Illustrator: Ivanka NiBa
Publisher: Svetulka Nova
24 pages, hardback, 19 x 23 cm
Age: 6+
Awards and honors:
- 2024 Award for Best Children’s Book from the Macedonian Writers’ Association
Rights:
Svetulka Nova Publishers
svetulkaik@gmail.com
Latest title:
A GARDEN FULL OF PETALS (2025)
When young Ilina is distressed by the sight of flowers wilting in autumn, her mother tells her a story about an ancient garden where flowers once lived forever. Over time, their endless existence led to stillness and stagnation—until one flower faded, allowing a long-waiting seed to bloom. A poetic and emotionally layered picture book that approaches the delicate theme of loss, renewal, and generational continuity through an extended allegory of flowers and seeds.
Illustrator: Ivanka NiBa
Publisher: Svetulka Nova
44 pages, hardback, 19,5 x 23,5 cm
Age: 8+
Rights:
Svetulka Nova Publishers
svetulkaik@gmail.com