[4] Hyde, an artist based in Cornwall, had already illustrated a first book for Templar Publishing called The Princess' Blankets and written by poet Carol Ann Duffy.

Pirotta sets the firebird free, in tribute to activists in his country of origin who were canvassing the government to stop recreational hunting and bird trapping.

"[5] Booktrust called it "a wonderful retelling" and remarked that "Catherine Hyde’s beautiful, atmospheric paintings perfectly capture the fairytale quality of the story.

[8] Valerie Coghlan reviewing for Books for Keeps stated that "The retelling of the story of a youngest son who overcomes obstacles to capture the glorious firebird who has been stealing his royal father’s golden apples is beautifully recounted, and is brilliantly paired with artwork that makes this a very splendid volume indeed.

"[9] and Kirkus Reviews found "The full-page acrylic paintings dominate the book with their atmospheric, nighttime settings and elegant gold lines.