More Swedish Books for Young Readers 1
Jali Madi Susso (b. 1991) After a number of years
writing easy-to-read books about teen life in a hardening social climate, Jali Madi Susso has also published a string of picture books around the theme of representation and migration. In the rich and varied world of picture books, one blind spot has been the experience of growing up with a non-European background in a Western society. Comedic opportunities and opportunities for reader identification abound, and Susso gives them due attention without resorting either to scolding or to oversimplification. In Susso’s most recent book, Addi’s Afro, illustrated by Felicia Fortes, problems arise when Addi doesn’t want to get braids in his hair so he can wear a cap. Capless, he runs out into the snow with his sled, and soon he meets some forest animals who take an interest in his afro. You have to wear a cap! (Don’t you?) The animals are cold and want to jump into his big hair and get warm. Addi doesn’t like it, and finally he has had enough. But he still wants to help his chilly animal friends. And his grandpa has knitted loads of hats that are just lying in the bureau at home. The story opens many doors to understanding. By moving the challenge to Addi’s hair to the animal world, Susso slips a complex question into a readily absorbable context. With enough goodwill and mutual respect, there is every chance of making everyone happy – even freezing forest animals. Addi’s Afro provides one welcome opportunity for more people to read about children with different experiences and different daily struggles. Jali Madi Susso’s down-to-earth storytelling is joyful and inviting. Felicia Fortes’ illustrations lend colour and depth, alternating between views of landscapes and domestic scenes and the illumination of specific expressions through gesture and body language. Thomas Evertsson Rights: Bonnier Rights All rights available Addi’s Afro (ill. Felicia Fortes), children’s picture book, 40 p., 2024, Bonnier Carlsen Grandpa knits hats, but Addi doesn’t like wearing them. Outside, Addi meets a lot of animals who wonder where his hat is. His hair keeps his ears warm, Addi explains. The animals jump into his hair, but Addi shakes them off. Maybe Grandpa’s knitted hats could keep them warm instead? The Treasure Hunt in Mundu Onak (written with Eva Susso, ill. Katsiaryna Dubovik), picture book, 96 p., 2019, Bonnier Carlsen Mfalme the lion is the king of Mundu Onak. One day Glen the pig washes up on the shore of Mfalme’s kingdom. Glen is searching for treasure in order to impress his brother. Samira the street dog joins Mfalme’s and Glen’s treasure hunt. But treasures might not always be what we expect them to be… 23 More Swedish Books for Young Readers Foto: Ulrica Zwenger