Astrid Lindgren

Date of Birth: November 14, 1907

Zodiac Sign: Scorpio

Date of Death: January 28, 2002

Biography

Astrid Lindgren was a renowned Swedish author best known for her children’s book series featuring Pippi Longstocking. Born as Astrid Anna Emilia Ericsson in Vimmerby, Sweden, she grew up on a farm, which later inspired many of her stories. Her literary career began somewhat inadvertently when she wrote down stories for her sick daughter, Karin. This led to the creation of Pippi Longstocking, a character that would become iconic in children’s literature. Over her lifetime, Lindgren wrote over 30 books for children, along with numerous short stories and plays. Her work has been translated into over 100 languages and has sold millions of copies worldwide. She received numerous accolades, including the Hans Christian Andersen Award for her contributions to children’s literature.

5 Interesting Facts about Astrid Lindgren

1. Astrid Lindgren’s first book about Pippi Longstocking was initially rejected by publishers before it became a global phenomenon.

2. She worked as a secretary and stenographer before becoming a full-time author.

3. Lindgren was a strong advocate for children’s and animal rights, often using her influence to affect Swedish legislation.

4. The character Pippi Longstocking was inspired by stories Lindgren told her daughter, Karin, when she was sick.

5. Lindgren received the Right Livelihood Award, often referred to as the “Alternative Nobel Prize,” in 1994 for her tireless work for children’s rights and literature.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Astrid Lindgren

1. “Give the children love, more love and still more love – and the common sense will come by itself.”

2. “Everything great that ever happened in this world happened first in somebody’s imagination.”

3. “I don’t mind dying, I’ll gladly do that, but not right now, I need to tidy up first.”

4. “In every adult there lurks a child—an eternal child, something that is always becoming, never completed, and calls for unceasing care, attention, and education. That is the part of personality which wants to develop and become whole.”

5. “You have to live life to the limit, not according to each day but by plumbing the depths.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At her peak, Astrid Lindgren’s net worth was estimated to be around $20 million, primarily from book sales, royalties, and adaptations of her works into films and television series.

Children

Astrid Lindgren had two children: 1. Lars Lindgren (1926–1986) – Her first child, born out of wedlock, which was quite scandalous at the time. 2. Karin Nyman (born 1934) – It was for her that Lindgren created the character of Pippi Longstocking. Karin later became a translator and author in her own right.