As reported by the Swedish news agency TT, one such milestone is the 80th language translation of Pippi Longstocking, Lindgren’s most iconic and globally recognized character. Pippi Longstocking has become a literary phenomenon across continents with over 70 million copies sold and translations into 80 languages as of 2025.
The most recent addition to this linguistic journey is a translation into Nigerian Pidgin. Among other newly added languages are Yiddish, Scottish Gaelic, Silesian (a Slavic language spoken in southwestern Poland and northeastern Czechia), Alsatian (a German dialect spoken in northeastern France), Karelian, and Amharic (spoken in Ethiopia). In a symbolic gesture, Swedish Crown Princess Victoria presented a copy of Do You Know Pippi Longstocking?, translated into Nigerian Pidgin, to Principal Umar Muhammed Makusidi at the LEA Preschool in Jabi, Nigeria—underscoring the global resonance of Lindgren’s literary universe. [1]
Celebration at Lidingö City Library
The celebration of Lindgren’s work finds a special reflection in Sweden this summer. On June 13, Lidingö City Library will host a distinguished guest: South Korean translator Kim Kyung-Hee, who has played a vital role in introducing Lindgren’s works, including Pippi Longstocking and the Moomin series, to Korean readers. Through her dedicated translations, Kim Kyung-Hee has bridged cultural gaps and opened the door to Swedish children’s literature for generations of Koreans. Notably, Nobel Prize-winning author Han Kang has credited Lindgren’s stories, as translated by Kim, as a formative influence in her childhood.
At this event, Kim Kyung-Hee will share personal reflections on her long-standing relationship with Lindgren’s writings, her work as a journalist and at UNICEF, and her thoughts on the importance of children's literature in fostering empathy, imagination, and cross-cultural understanding. The program will also include live music inspired by the world of Astrid Lindgren, offering attendees an immersive and heartwarming experience.
Event Details
- Date: Friday, June 13, 2025, at 4:00 p.m.
- Location: Lidingö City Library, Gustaf Dalén Hall
- Admission: Free, no registration required
- Language: English
Jointly organized by the Care and Social Administration and Lidingö City Library, this event promises to be a memorable celebration of the power of stories to connect cultures, generations, and hearts across the globe.
