Astrid Lindgren: The Woman Behind Pippi Longstocking

A powerful biography of the internationally renowned writer who created one of the most enduring characters in childrens literature, Pippi Longstocking

[An] Insightful, elegantly written biography of the beloved author of the Pippi Longstocking tales, a complex woman of parts. . .  Readers who grew up on Lindgren's stories will find this excellent book irresistibleand often surprising.Kirkus Reviews, Starred Review

The first English-language biography of Astrid Lindgren provides a moving and revealing portrait of the beloved Scandinavian literary icon whose adventures of Pippi Longstocking have influenced generations of young readers all over the world. Lindgrens sometimes turbulent life as an unwed teenage mother, outspoken advocate for the rights of women and children, and celebrated editor and author is chronicled in fascinating detail by Jens Andersen, one of Denmarks most popular biographers.
 
Based on extensive research and access to primary sources and letters, this highly readable account describes Lindgrens battles with depression and her personal struggles through war, poverty, motherhood, and fame. Andersen examines the writers oeuvre as well to uncover the secrets to the books universal appeal and why they have resonated so strongly with young readers for more than seventy years. See more