BILDERBOKEN: A BRIEF STORY AND CHARACTERISTICS OF SWEDISH PICTURE BOOKS

Abstract

This article addresses a brief journey throughout the picturebook in Sweden, which starts with a definition of picture books and their characteristics according to different professionals. Some of them have developed their research activity in the Nordic countries, such as Ulla Rhedin or Maria Nikolajeva. Next, an introduction to the research of this material in Sweden has been developed chronologically followed by a brief story of Swedish picture books. Then, after the study of different works published by researchers and associations, and after the reading of numerous Swedish picture books, the peculiarities of Swedish picture books will be explained, followed by examples of books, authors, and illustrators. Furthermore, different associations and institutions that encourage and promote children’s literature in Sweden will be mentioned, accompanied by their functions, which can include the preparation of different activities, the organization of literary awards, or the participation in congresses and conferences.