Barbro Lindgren

Almost everyone has read Barbro Lindgren. She is one of Sweden’s most important, deeply-loved and prolific writers. Her output of over a hundred titles for differing age groups includes picture books for very young children, poetry, plays, absurdist stories, and more realistic fiction for young adults.

Her work has been translated into more than thirty languages and to date she is the only Swedish writer to have won the Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award 2014. She has also written several books for adults. Her writing is at first glance quite simple, yet this is deceptive, as beneath the simplicity lies a profound seriousness. She trusts the reader to see beyond the words and reflect on the larger questions implied by the stories, such as the meaning of life, and how to live well.

Her stories are noted for their compassion, especially for the less privileged, those who seem to be different from the majority, or are on the margins of society. Humorous and with touches of melancholy, her books reveal an insight into and a deep understanding of the emotional realities of childhood. “I hope that readers will recognise themselves”, she has said, “and perhaps get some comfort. We need comfort, as life is not easy.” Her lack of sentimentality, combined with her sensitivity to feelings, atmosphere and mood can make her stories sometimes painfully affecting. However, whatever the subject matter, there is always warmth in her writing and a tone of voice that resonates with readers regardless of their age.

Barbro Lindgren has collaborated with many of Sweden’s foremost illustrators including Eva Eriksson, Olof Landström, Camilla Engman, and Pija Lindenbaum. In addition to the Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award, her work has been recognised in the form of over twenty other prizes and commendations.

Books

Juan och Rosalia. En kärlekshistoria

Barbro Lindgren

Books

Juan and Rosalia – A Love Story

The Shark Child

Knutte’s House

Now You Are a Hen

Let’s Play Ugly Duckling

Let’s Pretend We’re Baby Birds

Journal from the Chicken Coop

Oink Oink, Benny

Benny’s Had Enough

Benny and the Binky

The Cork Is Flying

Who’s Little Cap Is Flying

What Are We Living For

Max’s Cookie

Max’s Lamp

Max’s Bath

Max’s Ball

Max’s Car

Max’s Teddy

My Own Book

Andrej’s Longing

Max’s Potty

Rosa, the Little Train Engine

Max’s Nappy

The Wild Baby

Here is the Little House

Big Sister Little Brother

Louie

Max’s wagon

The Wild Baby’s Dog

The Wild Baby Goes to Sea

Loranga, Masarin and Dartanjang

Loranga, Loranga