CULTURE
Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award
Baku, January 8, AZERTAC
The Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award was created in 2002 by the Swedish government to promote every child’s right to great stories. It was established by the Swedish government after the death of Astrid Lindgren, to honor her memory. This global award is given annually to a person or organization for their outstanding contribution to children’s and young adult literature. With a prize of 5 million Swedish kronor, it is the largest award of its kind. The size of the prize signals that children and young people’s reading is of the utmost importance. The amount is also intended to inspire those active in this area.
Authors, illustrators, storytellers and as well as reading promotors can be awarded the prize. An expert jury selects the laureate(s) from candidates nominated by institutions and organizations all over the world. The award(s) is/are announced and presented in May in Sweden. The award can be made to one or more recipients, irrespective of language or nationality.
Astrid Lindgren, the creator of stories beloved the world over, she was a renewer of children’s literature. She was also a steadfast humanist who made her voice heard in the public debate, speaking with moral conviction, with humor, and always with her focus on children and their future. When, in 2002 at the age of 94, her voice finally fell silent, the Swedish Government decided to found an award to honour her memory and to promote interest in children’s and young adult literature around the world.
Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award is administered by the Swedish Arts Council. The award office is responsible for communication, support to the jury, finances and all activities related to the award. The laureates are chosen by a twelve-member expert jury. The award ceremony is presided over by Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden.