As an elder millennial, the adventures of Pippi Longstocking were a staple in the lineup of entertainment during my childhood. All of us looked up to the rebellious girl with the red extending braids and freckled face. But the name that was relatively unknown to me as a child is that of Astrid Lindgren. However, it took moving to Sweden to realize that the name Astrid Lindgren is treasured internationally.
Astrid’s journey began in 1907 within a small village in Southern Sweden called Vimmerby. Her writing career began at a later age, as Pippi Longstocking, the first of her publications, was not released until 1945. The inspiration for the cherished narrative was Astrid’s daughter, Karin, as the author wrote the tales to comfort her daughter in sickness. Astrid’s bibliography is extensive, comprising 34 chapter books and 41 picture books — although not all of her works were translated into English. Such as the tale of Pippi Longstocking, most of her stories contain the recurring theme of lonely and neglected children.
Fun fact: besides being known for her adored children’s literature, Astrid was also an unspoken voice on multiple political and societal issues. In 1976, she tackled an issue that directly affected herself, as she was being charged 102% tax on her publishing income. Her written opinion pieces were so influential that it led to policy and law changes within Sweden. She continued her political activism with a focus on children’s rights, and she directed her 1978 speech at the Peace Prize of the German Book Trade to focus on a slogan of “Never violence!” This movement resulted in outlawing physical punishment on children as of 1979.
Known as a voice for children, let’s explore five of Astrid Lindgren’s most cherished stories.
The Brothers Lionheart
Originally titled Bröderna Lejonhjärta, this novel is not for the faint of heart. It may look like a light fantasy chapter book, but this story contains some very dark themes of death, betrayal, and rebellion. However, the themes of brotherhood, hope, and courage balance it out to create a thrilling and rewarding tale, as we follow the adventures of two brothers named Karl and Jonathan Lionheart. The duo reside in a fantasy land called Nangijala, where stories and camaraderie are shared around a campfire. But as the evil ruler Tengil, with his fearsome dragon Katla, threaten to disturb the peace of the land, the brothers forge their bravery in attempts to defeat the wicked villain.
Ronja, The Robber’s Daughter
In Sweden, this tale is known as Ronja Rövardotter. Following the adventures of Ronja, this is the epic narrative of a young girl born to a man named Matt, who is the leader of a castle full of robbers. Although Ronja is raised to fit in with the rowdy atmosphere of the robbers, she feels more at peace in the surrounding woods. This is where she meets a boy named Birk. But as she discovers that Birk is the son of her father’s arch enemy, mayhem ensues.
Karlsson on the Roof
To Smidge’s surprise, he discovers that there is a small man named Karlsson who lives on his roof. Even more peculiar, Karlsson comes equipped with a propeller attached to his back. This new development catapults Smidge into numerous adventures and humorous shenanigans with his new found friend.
Mio’s Kingdom
Again reflecting on the theme of neglected children, Mio’s Kingdom uncovers the legend of Mio, who escapes to Farawayland in search of his real father. His flight is due to feeling neglected by his adopted parents in Stockholm. In his newly discovered home, Mio discovered that he is royalty, since his father is a king who has been searching for him for years. But before he can get too comfortable, Mio has to battle Sir Kato, who is causing pandemonium in Outer Land.
The Tomten
Instead of a jolly bearded old-man, the mascot of Swedish Christmas (besides Donald Duck) is Tomten, a gnome-like, small creature that stalks the night. In Astrid’s rendition of Tomten, Tomten creeps around an old farmhouse in the Swedish countryside, as he befriends a variety of animals and reminds us of the lighter, warmer days of spring.
Even as an adult, there is still time to revisit your childhood and hopefully discover a new magical world with these classic tales.
To discover more of Sweden, learn more with our Bookstr article Unlock The Magic Of Northern Europe With 8 Swedish Tales
For to explore more recommendations for children, check out our bookshelf Young Reader’s and Children’s Holiday Recs!
