{"id":3602,"date":"2022-02-22T19:25:01","date_gmt":"2022-02-22T19:25:01","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/londonducklings.co.uk\/?p=3602"},"modified":"2023-08-30T21:04:30","modified_gmt":"2023-08-30T20:04:30","slug":"nordic-childrens-books","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/londonducklings.co.uk\/nordic-childrens-books\/","title":{"rendered":"Nordic Children’s Books Kids Love"},"content":{"rendered":"

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Do you wonder which classic Nordic children’s books you should read for your kids? Check out our list of the cr\u00e8me de la cr\u00e8me of fairy tales from Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Finland and Iceland recommended by a Norwegian family. Be warned though, some of the Nordic fairy tales are known for being pretty brutal and raw!\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

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The best children’s books from Norway<\/h2>\n

Norway is a country with a rich and diverse literary tradition, especially when it comes to children’s books. From fairy tales and folktales to modern classics and contemporary stories, Norwegian authors have created some of the most memorable and beloved characters in children’s literature. In this blog post, I will introduce you to some of the best children’s books from Norway, and share with you why they are worth reading and exploring.<\/p>\n

Asbj\u00f8rnsen & Moe: The Ash Lad and The Three Billy Goats Gruff<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\n

Norway is a land of myths and legends, where trolls, fairies and giants roam the mountains and forests. But it is also a land of rich and diverse folktales, collected and preserved by two remarkable men: Peter Christen Asbj\u00f8rnsen and J\u00f8rgen Moe.<\/p>\n

Asbj\u00f8rnsen & Moe are often compared to the Brothers Grimm, as they also tried to preserve the original form and language of the tales while making them accessible to a wider audience. Their collection, known as Norske folkeeventyr (Norwegian Folktales), was first published in 1841 and has since become a landmark of Norwegian literature and culture.<\/p>\n

Some of the most popular tales from Asbj\u00f8rnsen & Moe are:<\/p>\n

The Three Billy Goats Gruff<\/strong>: This is the story of three goats who want to cross a bridge to reach a meadow full of grass, but have to face a fearsome troll who lives under the bridge. The goats use their cunning and strength to outsmart and defeat the troll, who wants to eat them. This tale is famous for its catchy refrain: “Trip, trap, trip, trap! Who’s that tripping over my bridge?”
\nEast of the Sun and West of the Moon<\/strong>: This is a romantic and magical tale of a poor girl who marries a white bear, who is actually a prince under a curse. She follows him to his castle, where he only visits her at night in the dark. She disobeys his only rule of not lighting a candle and sees his true form. He then has to leave her and go to the troll queen, who lives in a castle east of the sun and west of the moon. The girl embarks on a perilous journey to find him and break the curse, with the help of some friendly animals and a wise old woman. [3]
\nThe Ash Lad Who Had an Eating Match with the Troll:<\/strong> This is a humorous tale of a clever and brave boy who challenges a greedy troll to an eating contest. The boy tricks the troll into thinking that he has a huge appetite, by hiding a sack under his shirt and filling it with food. The troll tries to keep up with him but ends up bursting his own stomach. The boy then takes all the troll’s gold and silver and returns home victorious. This tale is one of many featuring the Ash Lad, a common hero in Norwegian folktales, who often wins against all odds.<\/p>\n

These stories reflect the values, beliefs and traditions of the Norwegian people, as well as their love for nature and adventure. They are also a source of inspiration for many artists, writers and filmmakers, such as Henrik Ibsen, Edvard Grieg and Walt Disney.<\/p>\n

As a Norwegian family, these fairy tales are among our absolute favourites, and we hope you will enjoy them as much as we do. If you want to read more, you can find a few suggested titles further down.<\/p>\n

\"norwegian

The Ash Lad running with a troll coming after him<\/p><\/div>\n

Asbj\u00f8rnsen collected fairy tales and legends from the mid-1830s and began the collaboration with J\u00f8rgen Moe in 1837. The result of their collection was presented in\u00a0<\/span>Norwegian Folktales<\/span><\/em>, compiled by P. Chr. Asbj\u00f8rnsen and J\u00f8rgen Moe, published in pamphlets from December 1841. It was an event in Norwegian cultural life and gained international recognition. The principle was “Tell as the People”.<\/span><\/p>\n

One of the big heroes in their stories is called Askeladden or “Ash Lad” in English. He is the youngest of the three brothers and the underdog when it comes to winning over the big trolls. The older brothers are always underestimating and laughing at Askeladden, but he miraculously ends up victorious using wisdom and deceit. If your kids are not afraid of brutal endings, we would definitely recommend Norwegian fairytales.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Are the old Norwegian fairytales still relevant in a modern context?<\/h3>\n

The old Norwegian folktales are a rich source of wisdom, imagination and cultural heritage. They have been passed down from generation to generation, and they reflect the values, beliefs and challenges of the people who told them. They are not just stories for entertainment, but also stories for education and inspiration.<\/p>\n

One of the main themes that runs through the old Norwegian folktales is the idea of overcoming adversity. The fairy tales can equip children to cope with hardship, danger and evil. They show children how they can grow from difficult experiences and come out of it stronger. They create a safe framework that gives the child a space where they can face evil in a manageable context.<\/p>\n

\"the

The Ash Lad playing with fire<\/p><\/div>\n

All children will come across difficult situations in their lives – they will have to enter battles whether they want to or not. This is a part of growing up, and it’s part of being human. What the fairy tales can contribute is to show how this can lead to personal development and life lessons.<\/p>\n

For example, in the tale of Askeladden (the Ash Lad), the youngest and most underestimated son of a poor farmer, we see how he uses his cleverness, courage and kindness to outsmart his brothers, win the princess and become king. He does not give up, even when everyone else does. He does not let his humble origins or his lack of resources stop him from pursuing his dreams. He does not let the giants, trolls or dragons scare him away from his goals. He proves that with a good heart and a sharp mind, anything is possible.<\/p>\n

In the tale of The Three Billy Goats Gruff, we see how the three brothers work together to cross the bridge and reach the green pasture, where they can graze and grow fat. They use their different sizes and strengths to trick and defeat the greedy troll who lives under the bridge and wants to eat them. They show that cooperation, strategy and bravery can overcome any obstacle.<\/p>\n

In the tale of The Princess on the Glass Hill, we see how a poor boy named Boots manages to climb the slippery glass hill with his magical horses and win the hand of the princess. He does not let his low status or his lack of money prevent him from trying his luck. He does not let the mockery or envy of the other suitors discourage him from showing his skills. He shows that with perseverance, luck and magic, miracles can happen.<\/p>\n

These are just some examples of how the old Norwegian folktales can teach children valuable lessons about life. They can also stimulate their imagination, creativity and curiosity. They can help them understand their own culture and history, as well as appreciate other cultures and traditions. They can foster a sense of wonder, joy and hope in their hearts.<\/p>\n

The old Norwegian folktales are still relevant today because they speak to our universal human needs and desires. They are timeless stories that can inspire us all.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row content_placement=”middle”][vc_column width=”1\/2″][vc_separator border_width=”2″][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n

Norwegian Folktales of Asbj\u00f8rnsen and Moe<\/h3>\n

The extraordinary folktales collected by Peter Christen Asbjornsen and Jorgen Moe began appearing in Norway in 1841. Over the next two decades the publication of subsequent editions under the title Norske folkeeventyr made the names Asbjornsen and Moe synonymous with Norwegian storytelling traditions.[\/vc_column_text][vc_btn title=”BUY ON AMAZON” style=”outline-custom” outline_custom_color=”#000000″ outline_custom_hover_background=”#528983″ outline_custom_hover_text=”#f9f9f9″ shape=”square” size=”sm” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Famzn.to%2F33D8O5d||target:%20_blank|”][\/vc_column][vc_column width=”1\/2″][vc_column_text]\"Norwegian<\/a>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row content_placement=”middle”][vc_column width=”1\/2″][vc_separator border_width=”2″][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n

Nordic Tales<\/h3>\n

If you love Nordic folklore, you will enjoy this book of 16 classic stories. They were collected and written down by scholars in the 1800s, and they are presented here in their original form. You will find tales of magic, humor, comfort, and horror, as well as insights into Nordic culture and history. The book is beautifully illustrated by Ulla Thynell, who captures the essence of each story with her vibrant and expressive artwork. This is a perfect book to curl up with on a cold winter night. It comes in a hardcover edition with a textured cover and a ribbon bookmark.[\/vc_column_text][vc_btn title=”BUY ON AMAZON” style=”outline-custom” outline_custom_color=”#000000″ outline_custom_hover_background=”#528983″ outline_custom_hover_text=”#f9f9f9″ shape=”square” size=”sm” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Famzn.to%2F3YVk09Y|target:_blank”][\/vc_column][vc_column width=”1\/2″][vc_column_text]\"nordic[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row content_placement=”middle”][vc_column width=”1\/2″][vc_separator border_width=”2″][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n

Book of Norwegian Folktales<\/h3>\n

Originally published in 1938, this book has been reissued to delight a new generation of readers with its charming and whimsical tales of cinderlads, princesses, and trolls. You will discover the rich and colorful culture of Norway as you read about the adventures and misadventures of its folk heroes and heroines. Whether you are looking for a cozy bedtime story or a captivating read for a rainy day, you will find it in d\u2019Aulaire\u2019s Book of Norwegian Folktales.[\/vc_column_text][vc_btn title=”BUY ON AMAZON” style=”outline-custom” outline_custom_color=”#000000″ outline_custom_hover_background=”#528983″ outline_custom_hover_text=”#f9f9f9″ shape=”square” size=”sm” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Famzn.to%2F3EkJtAe|target:_blank”][\/vc_column][vc_column width=”1\/2″][vc_column_text]\"norwegian[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row content_placement=”middle”][vc_column width=”1\/2″][vc_separator border_width=”2″][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n

The Three Billy Goats Gruff<\/h3>\n

Do you know the story of The Three Billy Goats Gruff? It’s a classic fairy tale about three goats who want to cross a bridge, but have to face a scary troll who lives under it. The troll asks each goat, “Who’s that trip-trapping over my bridge?” and tries to eat them. But the goats are clever and manage to trick the troll and get to the other side. This book is a great way to introduce fairy tales to young children. It has colourful illustrations and fun rhymes that make the story come alive. You can read it aloud with your kids and enjoy the adventure together. This book is suitable for children aged 2-4 years old.[\/vc_column_text][vc_btn title=”BUY ON AMAZON” style=”outline-custom” outline_custom_color=”#000000″ outline_custom_hover_background=”#528983″ outline_custom_hover_text=”#f9f9f9″ shape=”square” size=”sm” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Famzn.to%2F3Pj3gGE|target:_blank”][\/vc_column][vc_column width=”1\/2″][vc_column_text]\"The[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_separator border_width=”2″][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n

The best children’s books from Sweden<\/h2>\n

Sweden is a country with a rich literary tradition, especially when it comes to children’s books. From the beloved stories of Astrid Lindgren and Selma Lagerl\u00f6f, to the modern classics of Henning Mankell and Stieg Larsson, Swedish authors have captivated generations of young readers with their imagination, humour, and wisdom. In this blog post, I will introduce you to some of the best children’s books from Sweden, and explain why they are worth reading for both kids and adults.<\/p>\n

Astrid Lindgren: Pippi Longstocking<\/h3>\n

Astrid Lindgren was born in 1907 and grew up on a farm in Sm\u00e5land, a region in southern Sweden. She started writing stories for her daughter Karin, who asked her to tell her about Pippi Longstocking, a girl who lived by herself with a monkey and a horse. Pippi Longstocking became one of Lindgren’s most famous characters, along with Emil of L\u00f6nneberga, a mischievous boy who always got into trouble, Karlsson-on-the-Roof, a flying man who loved to eat sweets, and the Six Bullerby Children, who had fun adventures in their village.<\/p>\n

Lindgren wrote more than 30 books for children, which have been translated into 44 languages and sold over 167 million copies worldwide. She also received many awards for her work, including the Hans Christian Andersen Award and the Right Livelihood Award. Lindgren’s stories are full of humour, imagination, and respect for children’s rights and individuality. She also cared deeply about animal welfare and the environment. In this blog post, I will explore some of the themes and messages that Lindgren conveyed through her books, and how they can inspire us today.<\/p>\n

\"Astrid

From the Pippi show in Astrid Lindgren’s World<\/p><\/div>\n

Pippi Longstocking by Astrid Lindgren is probably the most famous Nordic children’s book character and one of our absolute favourites as well.\u00a0 Lindgren’s books can be pretty severe and dark, but also very cheerful with strong and independent main characters.\u00a0 \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Pippi

A selection of Pippi Longstocking books<\/p><\/div>\n

First and foremost, Astrid Lindgren took children seriously. She also saw children differently than many of her contemporary children’s book writers and had an intuitive understanding of children’s minds. In many of her books, the main character is a child having a hard time, creating a better life in a fantasy world. Other books are about rebellious and “impossible” children that adults do not understand treating them authoritatively.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Ronja

The Ronja theatre performance at Astrid Lindgren’s World in Sweden<\/p><\/div>\n

The books create empathy and commitment and provide a basis for conversations between children and parents about the significant issues in life. But the books can also be read as classic fairy tales or stories full of humour and inventions. Astrid Lindgren’s books have many layers and will always find a reader. They are for everyone and are timeless.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Playing Ronja, the robber’s daughter<\/p><\/div>\n

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Seacrow Island<\/h3>\n

When the Melkersons first set foot on Seacrow Island, they feel like they’ve landed on another planet. There’s nothing there that reminds them of their busy city life. And the cottage they’ve rented for the summer is quite … rustic. But Seacrow Island has its own charms. It has forests to explore, fish to catch, boats to sail, and all kinds of animals. Soon the Melkersons discover that it also has something more valuable-adventure, fun, discovery, and friends. Maybe leaving will be harder than they thought?[\/vc_column_text][vc_btn title=”BUY ON AMAZON” style=”outline-custom” outline_custom_color=”#000000″ outline_custom_hover_background=”#528983″ outline_custom_hover_text=”#f9f9f9″ shape=”square” size=”sm” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Famzn.to%2F45vQ5I8|target:_blank”][\/vc_column][vc_column width=”1\/2″][vc_column_text]\"Seacrow[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row content_placement=”middle”][vc_column width=”1\/2″][vc_separator border_width=”2″][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n

The children of noisy village<\/h3>\n

If you love stories about friendship and adventure, you will enjoy reading about Lisa and her friends from Noisy Village in this book by Astrid Lindgren. They live in a small place where everyone knows each other and there is always something fun to do. In this book, you will find out how they adopt a stray dog, look for a hidden treasure map, and survive a snowstorm! It’s a book full of excitement and laughter that you won’t want to miss.[\/vc_column_text][vc_btn title=”BUY ON AMAZON” style=”outline-custom” outline_custom_color=”#000000″ outline_custom_hover_background=”#528983″ outline_custom_hover_text=”#f9f9f9″ shape=”square” size=”sm” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Famzn.to%2F3szYDPC|target:_blank”][\/vc_column][vc_column width=”1\/2″][vc_column_text]\"the[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row content_placement=”middle”][vc_column width=”1\/2″][vc_separator border_width=”2″][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n

Do You Know Pippi Longstocking?<\/span><\/h3>\n

When Pippi Longstocking moves in next door to Tommy and Annika they are completely amazed by their new playmate. Pippi is cheeky, courageous and completely unpredictable. She lives alone with a monkey, a horse, and no rules whatsoever! Everything is fun with Pippi around! In this story she performs at the circus, uses her super strength to stop two robbers, and throws an unusual birthday party.[\/vc_column_text][vc_btn title=”BUY ON AMAZON” style=”outline-custom” outline_custom_color=”#000000″ outline_custom_hover_background=”#528983″ outline_custom_hover_text=”#f9f9f9″ shape=”square” size=”sm” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Famzn.to%2F2wlM1Ps|target:_blank”][\/vc_column][vc_column width=”1\/2″][vc_column_text]\"Pippi<\/a>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row content_placement=”middle”][vc_column width=”1\/2″][vc_separator border_width=”2″][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n

Pippi Longstocking illustrated by Lauren Child<\/span><\/h3>\n

This beautiful edition of the children’s classic Pippi Longstocking is illustrated throughout with wonderful collage pictures from the award-winning Lauren Child. The contemporary design, imaginative layout of the text, and stunning illustrations from Lauren Child all add up to a perfect gift purchase.[\/vc_column_text][vc_btn title=”BUY ON AMAZON” style=”outline-custom” outline_custom_color=”#000000″ outline_custom_hover_background=”#528983″ outline_custom_hover_text=”#f9f9f9″ shape=”square” size=”sm” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Famzn.to%2F2QzKI6o|target:_blank”][\/vc_column][vc_column width=”1\/2″][vc_column_text]\"Pippi<\/a>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row content_placement=”middle”][vc_column width=”1\/2″][vc_separator border_width=”2″][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n

Ronja the Robber’s Daughter illustrated<\/h3>\n

Ronja, the daughter of the robber chieftain, roams the forest but she must beware the grey dwarves and wild harpies. When she befriends Birk, the son of her father’s greatest enemy, it causes uproar. Ronia and Birk can no longer be friends . . . unless they do something drastic. Like running away . . .[\/vc_column_text][vc_btn title=”BUY ON AMAZON” style=”outline-custom” outline_custom_color=”#000000″ outline_custom_hover_background=”#528983″ outline_custom_hover_text=”#f9f9f9″ shape=”square” size=”sm” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Famzn.to%2F33FzHFD|target:_blank”][\/vc_column][vc_column width=”1\/2″][vc_column_text]\"Ronja,<\/a>[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_separator border_width=”2″][vc_column_text]<\/p>\n

The best children’s books from Denmark<\/h2>\n

From fairy tales to fantasy, adventure to humour, Danish authors have created some of the most beloved and influential stories for young readers. In this blog post, I will introduce you to some of the best children’s books from Denmark, and why they are worth reading. Whether you are looking for classics or contemporary works, you will find something to inspire and delight you in this list.<\/p>\n

H.C. Andersen: The Little Mermaid
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Today, H. C. Andersen is one of the world’s most famous fairy tale writers. In total, he has written 156 fairy tales and more realistic “stories”. The first one came out in a modest booklet in 1835 and was initially not very well received, but he gained popularity over time.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Portrait

Portrait of Hans Christian Andersen (1805-1875)<\/p><\/div>\n

Some of HC Andersen’s most famous fairy tales are:<\/p>\n