Astrid Lindgren is the author of more than 80 books for young readers, including Pippi Longstocking and its sequels. A rare combination of high literary quality, great popular appeal and a propensity for innovation propelled her to the position of Sweden's most famous and influential author. Her work has been translated into 76 languages, from Arabic to Zulu, and published in more than a hundred countries. She passed away in 2002.
The Red Bird (original title: Sunnanäng) is being published in the U.S. by Arthur A. Levine Books, an imprint of Scholastic Inc. It is the story of two orphans, Matthew and Anna, who are sent to live with the sternest farmer in the village. The work is hard; the food is scarce; the days are cold. But then one day, a glorious red bird leads them to Sunnymead, where they find hope, sunshine, and in the end, freedom.
The original illustrations by Marit Törnqvist will be on public display in the Central Children's Room of the New York Public Library from March 1 through 31. The Central Children's Room is located at the Donnell Library Center at 20 West 53rd Street.Original illustrations by Marit Törnqvistfrom The Red Bird by Astrid LindgrenThe Central Children's RoomDonnell Library CenterNew York Public Library20 West 53rd Street (between 5th and 6th Avenues)March 1 - March 31, 2005For hours and directions, call 212-621-0618 or visit www.nypl.org/branch/central/dlc/dch/Image: © Marit Törnqvist