Swedish Books for Young Readers 1
33 Swedish Books for Young Readers Martin Widmark
The LasseMaja Series, ill. Helena Willis, children’s fiction, 2003-present, 30+ titles, Bonnier Carlsen Rights: Bonnier Rights Sweden’s biggest series for the 7 to 10 age group, with over 8 million copies sold worldwide and the translation rights sold in over 35 languages. After many years’ experience in the detection business, Lasse and Maja have the sharpest wits in Valleby. But the cases, though always easy to read, are never easy to solve! The Nelly Rapp Series, ill. Christina Alvner, children’s fiction, 2003-2020, 21 titles, Bonnier Carlsen Rights: Bonnier Rights Photo: xx At the Monster Academy, the school that trains monster agents, Nelly learns how to recognize and fight terrifying creatures without becoming a victim of her own fear. The books about Nelly are just-enoughscary tales for early readers. Halvdan the Viking Series, ill. Mats Vänehem, children’s fiction, 2011-present, 10 titles, Bonnier Carlsen Rights: Bonnier Rights Halvdan and Meia are best friends even though they come from rival villages and believe in different Gods. The stories about the friendship between the Viking boy Halvdan and Meia offer both excitement and laughter combined, together with a significant deal of history. Martin Widmark is considered one of the giants of contemporary Swedish children’s fiction. His books have for many years been the most popular books in Swedish libraries. He has received the children’s own award for the best books 11 years in a row. His books are consistently on the best-seller lists, have received critical acclaim worldwide, and have been translated into more than 35 languages. Before becoming a full-time author, Martin Widmark worked as a middle-school instructor and a Swedish teacher for immigrants. He has also written several text books. The project “En läsande klass/A Reading Class”, initiated by Martin Widmark, is about reading comprehension and provides tools for teachers for ages 7-12. Photo: Stefan Tell