Sweden - Children's Books

Sweden is a wonderful place for a family trip, especially a road trip, with a stop at the Astrid Lindgren's World theme park dedicated to the author of Pippi Longstocking and the Vasa Museum featuring the great Swedish warship.

Do you know of another children's travel book about Sweden? Please feel free to note it in a comment below!

Children's Books by Famous Swedish Author, Astrid Lindgren

When thinking about books from Sweden and Swedish authors, we certainly can think of Pippi Longstocking! Pippi Longstocking (Swedish: Pippi Långstrump) is the fictional main character in an eponymous series of children's books by Swedish author Astrid Lindgren. Read more

[Mama Traveler Recommended!]Pippi Longstocking: The beloved story of a spunky young girl and her hilarious escapades.   Tommy and his sister Annika have a new neighbor, and her name is Pippi Longstocking. She has crazy red pigtails, no parents to tell her what to do, a horse that lives on her porch, and a pet monkey named Mr. Nilsson. Whether Pippi’s scrubbing her floors, doing arithmetic, or stirring things up at a fancy tea party, her flair for the outrageous always seems to lead to another adventure. 

Do you know Pippi Longstocking?: A simplified picture book version of the books.

The Children of Noisy Village: Let the beloved author of Pippi Longstocking take you on an adventure to Noisy Village!  Go crayfishing in the summer at Nocken, “dipping in the pot” at Christmastime with Lisa and Karl, and join Britta and Anna who know the best way to go about “nutting” for the New Year. In this gently humorous tale, master storyteller Astrid Lindgren takes us through a year in the lives and customs of six Swedish children living on a group of three farms in the countryside.

Astrid Lindgren (Little People, BIG DREAMS): In this book from the critically acclaimed, mulitmillion-copy best-selling Little People, BIG DREAMS series, discover how Astrid Lindgren grew up to become one of the world’s best-loved authors, and the creator of the irresistible Pippi Longstocking.  Little Astrid grew up on an old farm in Sweden. Her childhood was very happy, so happy that she never wanted to grow up. When she was four, her friend Edit read Astrid her first story. Suddenly, the entire place was filled with giants, witches and fairies.  They all came out from a magic object called a book. Astrid did her best to learn how to read, and once she started, she couldn’t stop! Soon, there were no books left to borrow from the library and her friends.

Children's Books by Famous Swedish Author and Illustrator, Elsa Beskow

Elsa Beskow was a famous Swedish author and illustrator who frequently combined reality with elements from the fairy tale world. Children meet elves or goblins, and farm animals talk with people. Central themes were the relationships between children and adults and children's independent initiative. Her work "depicted a happy home atmosphere in the Swedish countryside of the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries." Read more

The Tale of the Little, Little Old Woman: "Once upon a time there was a little, little old woman who lived in a little, little old cottage with a mischievous little cat…"  This simple and charming tale of a little cat that gets into big trouble is perfect for sharing. Young children will love the fairy tale illustrations and fun repetition.

Peter in Blueberry Land: Peter is looking for blueberries for his mother's birthday but he can't find a single one. Suddenly he feels a light tap on his shoe, and a strange and magical adventure begins.

[Mama Traveler Recommended!] Children of the Forest: The children of the forest live deep in the roots of an old pine tree. They collect wild mushrooms and blueberries and shelter under toadstools when it rains. They play with the squirrels and frogs, and when fall comes, they collect and prepare food to see them through the long winter, until the warm spring breeze starts to blow.

Aunt Green, Aunt Brown and Aunt Lavender: This is the first of the classic Peter and Lotta series. Filled with Elsa Beskow's characteristic humor and charm, it tells how the two children come to meet the aunts known as Aunt Green, Aunt Lavender, Aunt Brown, and their little black poodle, Dot.

Emily and Daisy: Emily wants to help her mama by watching Daisy the cow so she doesn't escape out the hole in her fence.  On the way to the meadow, Emily meets a big dog, a boastful boy and an old man. But who will help Emily when she needs it?  This is a delightful springtime story for young children about kindness and helping others from the world-renowned Swedish author–illustrator Elsa Beskow.

The above are just some examples of Elsa Beskow's many books and collections of her books are available for purchase.

Children's A to Z Books about Sweden

D is for Dala Horse: A Nordic Countries Alphabet: Located in Northern Europe and the North Atlantic, the Nordic Countries/Territories are comprised of Sweden, Norway, Finland, Denmark, Iceland, Greenland, the Faroe Islands, and Aland. And while they may share a region and some traditions, each has its own distinct geography, history, and heritage. Explore Greenland where, contrary to its name, more than 80 percent of the land is covered by an ice cap. It is home to the polar bear, as well as walrus, reindeer, and seal. Stop off in Copenhagen, the capital city of Denmark - the statue of the Little Mermaid from Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tale can be found near the harbor. Visit Sweden's lively Jokkmokk Winter Market which draws visitors from around the world, or sample the tasty fare of a Swedish smorgasbord.

Children's Books about Swedish Fairy Tales, Folk Tales, and Legends

Per and the Dala Horse: Many years ago a Swedish farmer died, leaving all his worldly possessions to his three sons. The eldest inherited the farm, a sturdy work horse, and a plow. The middle son came by a fine riding horse. But Per, the youngest son, received only a handsomely carved and painted Dala horse.

The Gate Swings In: A Story of Sweden: Minda is an orphan, taken in by her practical and less-than-enthusiastic Aunt Karin. Minda and her crafty goat, Stor Geta, struggle to find a place to call home—and to get the money her aunt insists she must earn for her school clothes and shoes. She tries being a servant and house-help, an entrepreneur, even a herd-girl up on the mountains, but nothing comes easy. And yet there is much joy and adventure. She meets a young widow, the Mistress of Dalstorp, and together they face the world until at last they win through and find each other.  The Gate Swings In captures the mood, culture and wisdom of the Swedish folk. It is a perfect complement to Nora Burglon’s much loved Danish tale, Sticks across the Chimney.

The Tomten: This classic story of the Tomten’s nocturnal visits to all of the residents of wintry farm has been reminding children of the promise of spring for decades. Astrid Lindgren's story is a delight for young children, depicting the traditional Swedish character of the house elf, or tomten.

The Tomten and the Fox: In this sequel to the classic The Tomten, Astrid Lindgren, the creator of Pippi Longstocking adapts a Swedish folk tale into a beloved children’s story. When a hungry fox wanders into a farm late at night looking for food, the guard troll Tomten finds a way to keep the farm animals safe and feed the fox at the same time.

The Boy Who Ate More Than the Giant and Other Swedish Folktales: Three Swedish fairy tales are illustrated and told briefly in this short book for an elementary reader.

Nordic Tales: Folktales from Norway, Sweden, Finland, Iceland and Denmark: Nordic Tales is a collection of 16 traditional tales from the enchanting world of Nordic folklore.  Translated and transcribed by folklorists in the 19th century, these stories are at once magical, hilarious, cozy, and chilling.  Welcome to a world of mystical adventure—where trolls haunt the snowy forests, terrifying monsters roam the open sea, a young woman journeys to the end of the world, and a boy proves he knows no fear.

Scandinavian Folk & Fairy Tales: Tales From Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Finland & Iceland: A collection of folk literature from five countries, with illustrations by native artists.

The Dragon's Hoard: Stories from the Viking Sagas: Meet the Vikings and enter their enchanting world full of warriors and battles, heroes and heroines, Berserkers, monsters and zombies, and of course, lots of magic. Illustrated throughout, these eleven amazing stories bring the Viking Sagas, tales they themselves told, to vivid life. A fantastic introduction to Viking mythology, these illustrated tales will have children captivated. [Mama Traveler Note: The author, Lari Don, notes where each story originates or comes from and where she found them. The stories are set in various locations, including Denmark, Sweden, Iceland, Scotland, Greenland, Norway, Wales, and North America.]

Children's Books about Stories in Sweden and Swedish People

[Mama Traveler Recommended!] The Art and Life of Hilma af Klint: The first children’s picture book on the Swedish artist and mystic Hilma af Klint and her pioneering of paintings that are considered among the first abstract works known in Western art history. Hilma af Klint (1862–1944) began painting her abstract and highly symbolic images as early as 1906, long before Kandinsky and Malevich arrived at what has generally been regarded as the birth of modern abstract art. She was heavily influenced by spiritual ideologies and claimed that she painted on instruction from the spirit world, for the future. Until recently overlooked by art historians, she is now lauded around the world, and was the subject of the highest-attended single exhibition in the Guggenheim’s history, Hilma af Klint: Paintings for the Future.  This book is not only about Hilma af Klint’s art, but also about the magic that surrounded her. Brimming with quality reproductions of the artist’s work and with illustrations by Karin Eklund, it will appeal to all children wanting to learn more about the enchanting life and work of this groundbreaking artist.

[Mama Traveler Recommended!] Little Naturalists: Greta Thunberg Takes a Stand: Introduce your brilliant baby to the young climate change activist Greta Thunberg.  Greta Thunberg first heard about global warming when she was 8 years old and she was very troubled by it. She was 15 when she started a school strike. Greta led protests at home in Sweden and abroad, and soon began speaking to groups including the World Economic Forum, the British and European parliaments, and the United Nations Climate Action Summit and Conferences. She has received many awards for her efforts. Greta has an autism spectrum disorder, known as Asperger’s syndrome, which she calls her superpower because it helps her strongly focus her attention on climate change. She continues to work to get countries to decrease emissions, and she has inspired so much awareness and activism that the result is known as the “Greta Effect.” Kate Coombs’ engaging narrative and Seth Lucas’ captivating art teach young readers about this inspiring conservationist.

Who Is Greta Thunberg?: A Who Was? Board Book: The chronology and themes of Greta Thunberg's inspirational life are presented in a masterfully succinct text, with just a few sentences per page. The fresh, stylized illustrations are sure to captivate young readers and adults alike. With a read-aloud biographical summary in the back, this age-appropriate introduction honors and shares the life and work of one of the most influential environmental activists of our time.

Greta Thunberg (Little People, BIG DREAMS): In this book from the critically acclaimed, multimillion-copy bestselling Little People, BIG DREAMS series, discover the inspiring true story of Greta Thunberg, the environmental activist.  When young Greta learned of the climate crisis, she stopped talking. She couldn't understand why people in power were not doing anything to save our Earth. One day she started protesting outside the Swedish Parliament, creating the 'School Strike for Climate'. Soon, lots more young people joined her in a global movement that shook adults and politicians alike.

The Sinking of the Vasa: A Shipwreck of Titanic Proportions: In full sail with flags flying, the mighty warship capsized and began to sink.  This is the saga of the great Swedish warship, the Vasa. Built to be the crown jewel of the Swedish Navy, the Vasa capsized not a mile into her maiden voyage in 1628―a tragedy resulting in many deaths and great loss. But who was to blame? Award-winning author Russell Freedman explores the history of this ship, and her resurrection from the seas in 1961. William Low’s gorgeous illustrations bring The Sinking of the Vasa to life.

Children's Books about Travel to Sweden

Carla's Adventure in Sweden: Book 3 in The Traveling Trunk Series: The Traveling Trunk Adventures with Carla are perfect for readers who are just beginning to read chapter books.  Do you know how to dance like a frog? Carla learns how when the traveling trunk transports her to Sweden during the Midsummer Festival. Will her new friends, Olivia and Nils, beat her at kubb? Or will Carla be the first to knock down the king?

A Kid's Guide to Scandinavia and Finland: A Kid's Guide to Scandinavia and Finland takes young readers (ages 9-12) on an exciting and colorful adventure to four amazing Nordic countries: Denmark, Norway, and Sweden (the Scandinavian countries), and Finland. The book helps today’s young explorers learn about the fascinating history, geography, culture, and wildlife of these countries with both fun facts and trivia.

Children's Books about Christmas in Sweden

[Mama Traveler Recommended!] Home for Christmas: Set in Arctic Sweden, a warm, fun-loving Christmas picture book for families to share and love and laugh over together.  A grumpy little troll runs away from home because he doesn't want to do his chores. Rollo tries living with various woodland animals, but he finds out that there is no place like home, and returns to his family just in time for "the best Christmas ever."  Among the animals who take him in are an owl family, a mother bear and two rambunctious cubs, some playful river otters, a hungry lynx and a friendly moose family.

Tomten Saves Christmas: A Swedish Christmas Tale: This gorgeous Nordic tale, in the tradition of Astrid Lindgren’s Tomten Tales and Ulf Stark’s The Yule Tomte and the Little Rabbits, will have readers of all ages believing in the magic of Christmas. This is one to pull out every year and treasure!  Grumpy old Farm Tomten just wants to stay at home and avoid the terrible Christmas celebrations altogether. His cousin, Yule Tomten, is up to his ears in Christmas presents and thousands of children waiting. With just two more days till Christmas, will an invite for Christmas coffee be enough to melt Farm Tomten’s grumpy heart so they can save Christmas together?

Lucia Morning in Sweden: In the busy house of the Svennson family, everyone is getting ready for the Swedish holiday of Lucia Day, December 13. The book tells the story of Santa Lucia through the eyes of three children in modern-day Sweden. It describes their giddy activities, brought to life in colorful, full-page illustrations, and also provides sheet music, recipes, and sewing patterns for the costumes traditionally worn by children on this day, when many Swedish people celebrate the legacy of Lucia and the coming of the light with coffee, saffron buns, ginger snaps, and wonderful singing. One of the most beloved and celebrated traditions of the Swedish people, Lucia Day also signifies that the Christmas holiday is getting close.

Lucia: Saint of Light: Long revered in both East and West, St. Lucia is an early virgin martyr whose life and legacy shine as a light of faith, hope, and compassion in the darkness of winter and sin. Lucia, Saint of Light introduces young readers to both her life and her delightful Christmas-related festival as it is traditionally celebrated in Sweden and around the world. Daria Fisher's warm and vivid illustrations will make this book a favorite with children and parents alike. Brighten your home this winter with the festival of Lucia, Saint of Light!

Swedish Christmas A-Z (Plus 3!): An Alphabet Coloring & Activity Book: It's fun to explore how other countries celebrate Christmas! "God Jul" is the Swedish greeting, and you will learn to pronounce it and learn what it means when you explore the letter J in this delightful alphabet coloring and activity book! Learn to pronounce all 29 Swedish alphabet words and examine the associated Christmas tradition through coloring whimsical illustrations and family-friendly activities, including a tomte hunt! Additional pages are provided so you can add your Christmas stories, photos, recipes, memories and drawings, making it a one-of-a-kind book! Targeted ages of 7-12 but children and adults ages 3-103 will enjoy this unique book! Great family and classroom resource!