Rights & Brands
SPRING 2024 Catalogue
Children's Books and Young Fiction
Rights & Brands
Stockholm
Rosenlundsgatan 31
118 63 Stockholm
Sweden
Rights & Brands is a 360° licensing and literary agency bringing Scandinavian rights and brands to a global arena. Starting from a strategic base in literature, art and design, R&B’s platform is built on knowledge, passion and people. Using all aspects of character representation and branding, from publishing and PR to licensing, merchandising and digital development, with a worldwide network of sub-agents and over 800 clients, R&B’s international insight and business capacity is unique.
Rights & Brands represents iconic Nordic brands, artists and authors and is the worldwide master agent on behalf of Moomin Characters. Other representation includes Tove Jansson, Stig Lindberg, Carl Larsson-gården Sundborn, Ilon Wikland, Hello Ruby, Mauri Kunnas and many more.
With its headquarters in Stockholm, Sweden and local branches in Helsinki, Oslo, Hong Kong and Tokyo, R&B was founded in 2016 by Moomin Characters and Bulls, combining over 70 years of licensing experience.
Rights & Brands
Helsinki
Salmisaarenranta 7 L
00180 Helsinki Finland
publishing@rightsandbrands.com
www.rightsandbrands.com
Moomin p. 4
Ilon Wikland p. 10
Mauri Kunnas p. 12
Picture Books p. 15
Comics p. 32
Fiction p. 34
Non-fiction p. 49, 52
Tove Jansson (1914-2001)
Finnish-Swedish writer and artist, who achieved worldwide fame as the creator of the Moomins, written and illustrated between 1945 and 1980. The books about the brave, adventurous, yet family-focused and homeloving Moomins have been translated into more than 50 languages and are still in print all over the world today. The Moomins were only a part of Jansson’s prodigious output. Already admired in Nordic art circles as a painter, cartoonist and illustrator, she would go on to write a series of classic novels and short stories. She remains Scandinavia’s best-loved author.
The Moomins and the Great Flood (Småtrollen och den stora översvämningen)
64 pages | Förlaget M | 1945
The first story about the Moomins was originally published in 1945. This is the tale about Moominmamma and Moomintroll’s search for the missing Moominpappa and how the family found their way to Moominvalley.
To celebrate the 80th anniversary of the first Moomin book and the start of all the great Moomin adventures, Moomin Characters and Rights & Brands launch the Moomin 80 campaign on 24th October 2024.
The central theme of the book, the sense of belonging, is the key to the campaign and the values of inclusiveness, kindness, family and community are lifted from the original story.
An anniversary edition of The Moomins and the Great Flood with a foreword by Frank Cottrell Boyce and additional illustrated material is the flagship title of the anniversary publishing programme. Other titles, including a pop-up book The Moomins Find a Home, will be available through Rights & Brands and our publishing partners. The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies is the charity partner for Moomin 80.
In Moominvalley, the door is always open.
Leena Virtanen (b. 1960) is a freelance journalist and author.
Sanna Pelliccioni (b. 1976) is an awarded illustrator and children’s book author.
Tove! - Tove Jansson’s journey to freedom and the edge of the world (Suomalaisia supernaisia: Tove!)
All ages | 32 pages | Teos | 2023
Estonian rights sold!
This is a story of farewells and the courage and inspiration to embark on a new path.
Tove Jansson is one of the most accomplished and honoured Finnish artists of all times. She achieved international fame as the creator of the world-famous Moomins. While her life revolved around the Moomins, she longed for something else.
Tove embarks on a around the world trip with her partner Tooti. At their first stop in Japan, Tooti gets hold of a Super 8 mm film that captures Tove’s travels around the globe: in Hawaii, at the ancient temples in Mexico and the United States. During the voyage Tove finds the freedom and inspiration to create something new. Tooti’s tiny camera also captures memories and life abroad. Tove Jansson's masterpiece, The Summer Book was also penned during these travels.
The Finnish Superwomen picture books, created by author Leena Virtanen and illustrator Sanna Pelliccioni, is a wonderful illustrated series, that explores the lives of Finnish artists and notable cultural personas: Minna Canth, Ellen Thessleff, Eeva Kilpi, Fredrika Runeberg and Larin Paraske. Tove Jansson is the latest independent title in the series.
Queer Non-Fiction Book of the Year 2023
Moomin: Where’s Shadow?
(Muumi: Missä Samu luuraa?)
Age 3+ | 32 pages | WSOY | 2023
Solve the poetic clues and help the Moomins find Shadow!
An inspiring quest book introduces readers to Moominvalley's most inconspicuous hero: a little being called Shadow.
Shadow is a small and silent creature who lives in Moominvalley and is unnoticeable to all others. Can you find Samu's black snout or tail among the familiar Moomin characters?
Where is Shadow? is an amusing search-andfind book that will for sure keep young readers occupied and engaged. Based on Tove Jansson's original illustrations, this interactive book is full of surprising details, inventive language and fun, play-age activities!
Christmas Comes to Moominvalley (Julen kommer till Mumindalen)
Age 3+ | 40 pages Bonnier Carlsen | 2018
Moomin Sets Sail (Mumintrollen och havsorkestern)
Age 3+ | 40 pages
Bonnier Carlsen | 2020
The Way to Moominvalley (Vägen till Mumindalen)
Age 3+ | 32 pages
Bonnier Carlsen |2020
The Invisible Guest in Moominvalley (Mumintrollen och den osynliga gästen)
Age 3+ | 40 pages Bonnier Carlsen | 2019
Moomin Meets Thingumy and Bob (Tofslan och Vifslan kommer till Mumindalen)
Age 3+ | 40 pages | Bonnier Carlsen | 2023
Moomin and the Magic Hat (Mumintrollen och den magiska hatten)
Age 3+ | 40 pages
Bonnier Carlsen | 2021
Moomin and the Last Dragon (Mumintrollen och draken)
Age 3+ | 40 pages
Bonnier Carlsen | 2019
Moomin on Hattifatteners Island (Mumintrollen på hattifnattarnas ö)
Age 3+ | 40 pages
Bonnier Carlsen | 2020
Moomin and the First Snow (Mumintrollen och den första snön)
Age 3+ | 40 pages | Bonnier Carlsen | 2022 Rights sold in more than 20 languages!
Moomin and Little My
A series of Moomin board books introduce concepts with Moomintroll and Little My. Sturdy pages and colourful illustrations will keep young readers safe and entertained. Illustrations by Riina and Sami Kaarla.
Moomin and Little My:
Words
(Muumi ja Pikku Myy: Sanat)
Age 0+ | 16 pages | Tammi | 2024
Moomin and Little My: Seasons (Muumi ja Pikku Myy: Vuodenajat)
Age 0+ | 16 pages | Tammi | 2020
Moomin and Little My: Every Weather
(Muumi ja Pikku Myy: Joka säällä)
Age 0+ | 16 pages | Tammi | 2024
Moomin and Little My: Family and Friends
(Muumi ja Pikku Myy: Perhe ja ystävät)
Age 0+ | 16 pages | Tammi | 2020
Moomin and Little My: Play (Muumi ja Pikku Myy: Leikit)
Age 0+ | 16 pages | Tammi | 2023
Moomin and Little My: Feelings (Muumi ja Pikku Myy: Tunteet)
Age 0+ | 16 pages | Tammi | 2019
Moomin and Little My: Numbers (Muumi ja Pikku Myy: Numerot)
Age 0+ | 16 pages | Tammi | 2023
Moomin and Little My: Colours (Muumi ja Pikku Myy: Värit)
Age 0+ | 16 pages | Tammi | 2019
Moomin Fun
New Moomin Fun series of activity books and novelty titles created by Otava Publishing in Finland.
Their collection will include 4-6 activity, colouring and sticker books every year and some novelty titles, such as sound button book and lift the flap books.
Moomin Fun: Letters Activity Book (Muumi kirjainpuuhat)
Age 3+ | 24 pages | Otava | 06/2024
Age 3+ | 14 pages | Otava | 09/2024
Moomin Fun: Numbers Activity Book (Muumi numeropuuhat)
Age 3+ | 24 pages | Otava | 06/2024
Moomin Fun: Sticker Activity Book (Muumi riemukas tarrakirja)
Age 3+ | 24 pages | Otava | 09/2024
Moomin
Colouring
(Muumi iloinen värityskirja)
Age 3+ | 32 pages | Otava | 09/2024
Age 1+ | 12
| Otava | 2023
Age 3+ | 14 pages | Otava | 10/2024
*Co-edition printing with Cottage Door Press.
Ilon Wikland artwork
Over 1000 images and illustrations in a variety of techniques are available for publishing and licensing purposes from Rights & Brands. The text rights are with The Astrid Lindgren Company.
Ilon Wikland (b. 1930)
is an Estonian-born Swedish artist and illustrator. In 1944 she escaped the Soviet occupation of Estonia and arrived in Sweden as a 14-year-old refugee.
She was later educated at Swedish art school Konstfack and in 1953 Wikland applied for a job as an illustrator at Stockholm-based publisher Rabén & Sjögren, where she started working with Astrid Lindgren. Wikland has said that Lindgren’s writing makes her see inner pictures. She also derives inspiration for her pictures from real life. Wikland illustrates in the the same way that Astrid Lindgren wrote - for 'the child within her'.
The pair worked together for many years and Wikland has illustrated some of the most appreciated works by Lindgren, including Ronja the Robber’s Daughter, Mardie, Karlsson on the Roof, The Children on Troublemaker Street, and many more.
Ilon Wikland has donated over 600 of her original illustrations, now to be enjoyed at "Ilon's Wonderland", a gallery and theme centre for children and families in Haapsalu, Estonia.
“Light, air, warmth, feeling and colour. That’s when the image comes alive.”
Ilon Wikland
Themed Activity Books
These stylish activity books contain maths puzzles, labyrinths, lovely stickers of the familiar characters and much more.
24 pages | Rabén
2022
24 pages | Rabén & Sjögren | 2022
24 pages | Rabén & Sjögren | 2022
24 pages | Rabén & Sjögren | 2021
Modest and well-mannered Mr Clutterbuck is blissfully unaware of his reputation as the busiest sleepwalker in town. Not so his pet guinea-pig Gus, who has to chase his snoring master on his nocturnal adventurers full of humour and unexpected situations. Mr Clutterbuck features in four original books but he is a character every Finnish child recognises as he can also be spotted walking in the background on nearly every book illustrated by Mauri Kunnas.
Mauri Kunnas (b. 1950) is Finland’s most successful children’s book author today. He has published over 50 books, which have been translated into over 40 languages and sold nearly 10 million copies. Kunnas is also widely appreciated by adults, particularly for his comics about the Beatles. Mauri Kunnas offers the reader an unparalleled joy of discovery: his brilliantly coloured illustrations are filled with rich and humorous details. He has an unrivalled gift for taking history and casting it in a new and hilarious way, as well as for giving old stories and legends his own delightful twist.
Good Night, Mr Clutterbuck (Hyvää yötä, herra Hakkarainen)
Age 4+ | 38 pages | Otava | 1999
Mr Clutterbuck's Funny Hobbies (Herra Hakkarainen harrastaa)
Age 4+ | 32 pages | Otava | 2008
Mr Clutterbuck’s Seven Wonders (Herra Hakkaraisen seitsemän ihmettä)
Age 4+ | 32 pages | Otava | 2008
Sweet Dreams with Mr Clutterbuck (Hurjan hauska unikirja)
Age 4+ | 32 pages | Otava | 2019
Going to the Doctor with Pawchester Pups (Tassulan lasten lääkärikirja)
Age 3+ | 32 pages | Otava | 2023
Pawchester pups are very active with their daily endeavors and hobbies, therefore, they also experience minor accidents or fall ill. Not to worry, though, as the pups get the help they need. In the company of the Pawchester pups, going to the doctor’s and overall being under the weather is not a reason to worry as the reader gets to follow the characters taking care of their wellbeing.
This adorably illustrated new book addresses the fears of visits to the doctor and presents the most common illnesses experienced by children, as well as shares informative advice on being healthy. This new title is written together with pediatricians for an informative and reassuring read.
Santa Claus (Joulupukki)
Age 5+ | 50 pages | Otava 1981
In this Christmas classic we learn everything there is to know about Santa Claus, his elves and their magical home Mount Korvatunturi in Lapland. Santa Claus has been translated into 30 languages and about 2 million copies have been sold to date.
Santa’s Christmas Holiday (Joulupukin joululoma)
Age 5+ | 40 pages | Otava | 2020
40 years after the classic Santa Claus, Mauri Kunnas returns with his fourth book about the real Santa in Lapland.
Have you ever wondered what Santa Claus and the elves do when all the gifts are delivered?
Up in the village of Korvatunturi, where the Christmas spirit is at its fullest, a well-deserved holiday break begins for everyone. It lasts for twelve days of Christmas, from Christmas Day to Epiphany. In this jolly Christmas story, we find out what happens over Santa’s holiday and how the Korvatunturi folk relax.
Twelve Gifts for Santa Claus (Kaksitoista lahjaa joulupukille)
Age 5+ | 42 pages | Otava 1987
What can an elf give Santa for Christmas? This is a story about sharing the gift of happiness with others, regardless of the season.
Rights sold in more than 30 languages!
Santa Claus and the Magic Drum (Joulupukki ja noitarumpu)
Age 5+ | 48 pages | Otava 1995
Odd things are happening in Santa’s village with Christmas just around the corner. A picture book based on an acclaimed animation, and the third book in the Christmas book series.
Aino Havukainen (b. 1968) and Sami Toivonen (b. 1971)
are best known as the creators of the hilarious Oddville boys, Tatu and Patu. The series includes 23 titles to date, and the riotous humour of these hugely popular illustrated books appeals to children and adults alike. Among many other awards and nominations, Tatu and Patu: This is Finland won the Finlandia Junior prize in 2007 and in 2017 the authors were granted the Finland State Prize for Children’s Culture. In Finland, Tatu and Patu books have sold over 1.3 million copies and the translation rights have been sold in 31 languages.
Tatu and Patu’s Fantasy Adventure (Tatun ja Patun fantasiaseikkailu)
Age 5+ | 44 pages | Otava | 2023
Rights sold in more than 30 languages!
Tatu and Patu return to embark upon a fantasy adventure! In the latest book, the duo’s love of fantasy opens the world of Avathor as they discover a passage through their bathroom mirror cabinet. They learn that Avathor is on the verge of chaos, therefore Tatu and Patu get the chance to use all their warrior and wizarding skills. This book is a brilliant pastiche of fantasy genre with Tatu and Patu’s genious humour.
Tatu and Patu – Ready, Steady, Go! (Tatu ja Patu – Paikoillenne, valmiit, hep!)
Age 5+ | 40 pages | Otava | 2024
Time to get up and go out for a run together with the most inspiring exercise companions Tatu and Patu!
The Oddville duo Tatu and Patu are stuck on their screens. Veera has to do everything she can think of to get the two at least to jump on the trampoline. But when Tatu and Patu get going, they try out each exercise in the true Oddville style. This book is a rib-tickling take on the joy of movement and deserves gold, silver or at least brunch!
Inger Sandberg (1930-2023) and Lasse Sandberg (1924-2008)
Swedish cartoonist and illustrator Lasse Sandberg and teacher and author Inger Sandberg met in the 1950s and started their successful collaboration as a creative team and married couple. Outside the Nordics they are best known for their books about Little Anna and Little Ghost Laban. Together Inger and Lasse wrote and illustrated over 100 books and they have been nominated and awarded several prestigious prizes, including the ALMA Award and the Elsa Beskow plaque.
Laban and Labolina compare things (Laban och Labolina jämför saker)
Age 2+ | 32 pages | Rabén & Sjögren | 2023
Three Stories about Little Ghost Laban (Tre berättelser om lilla spöket Laban)
Age 3+ | 96 pages | Rabén & Sjögren | 2021
This story collection includes the following three original stories: Ghost Laban gets a Little Sister, What's that Noise, said Ghost Laban, and Daddy is Ill, said Ghost Laban.
Laban and Labolina discover opposites (Laban och Labolina upptäcker motsatser)
Age 2+ | 32 pages | Rabén & Sjögren | 2023
The Big Book about Little Anna, Ghost Laban and Friends (Stora boken om Lilla Spöket Laban, Lilla Anna och några till)
Age 3+ | 142 pages | Rabén & Sjögren | 2021
Special anthology of the best-loved stories with refreshed artwork, including Little Anna and Tall Uncle at Sea, Little Ghost Laban, Thumbkin's Ball Runs Away, Help me, said Pulvret, What's that Noise, said Ghost Laban, When Little Anna Had a Cold and Black, White and Other Colours.
Bamse by Rune Andréasson
Bamse is the strongest bear in the world, but also the kindest, and the protector of the weak and those in need. He is here to amuse all children, but he is also a role model and a favourite among parents. Bamse was originally created by Rune Andréasson in the sixties, and the Bamse comic magazine was first published in 1973 and celebrates now its 50th anniversary.
How Bamse, Lille Skutt and Skalman Met (Bamse – Hur Bamse, Skalman och Lille Skutt träffades)
Age 3+ | 48 pages | Egmont Story House | 2023
Are you wondering how Bamse, Lille Skutt and Skalman became friends? In this book, you will find the answer. It starts with Lille Skutt and his siblings moving away from home. The Wolf, who at that time was the world champion in malice, tries to catch them all. Lille Skutt may be very fast, but will he manage to get away from the Wolf? It would be great to have a friend who is both the world's strongest and kindest bear. And maybe also one who is very clever and has a hard, green shell.
The book is based on a classic Rune Andreasson story adapted into a book by Charlotta Borelius.
When Bamse Was Little (När Bamse Var Liten)
Age 3+ | 32 pages | Egmont Story House | 2021
When Bamse was little, he lived with his grandmother. When they moved to the house on High Mountain, Bamse had to start at a new school. There, some children were mean and called him names. Bamse was sad and went home and ate thunder honey. Now he would show the other children how strong he was. But it didn’t go at all as he had planned.
Oili Tanninen (b. 1933)
Finnish award-winning author and illustrator Oili Tanninen has created over 20 children’s books. Her works have been published in various languages. Her simple, yet bold illustrations in graphic colours make her artwork feel as fresh today as when the first books were published in the 1960’s. Tanninen’s books have been published in English, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean and Swedish.
Bobble and Pom Pom (Papu ja Polla)
Age 1+ | 24 pages | Otava | 1970
Bobble and Pom Pom is a wintery tale in bold pantone colours. The snowmen Bobble and Pom Pom and their friends the snow rabbit and the bird play in the snow. They ski, they build castles, and throw snowballs. But when spring comes and rain starts, where do they disappear?
The original characters created in collage style have a new life in newly illustrated board books created by Boxer Books. Originally published in Finnish, the rights for Bobble and Pom Pom have been sold in English, French, Italian and German.
Rights sold in 4 languages!
A retro picture book series originally published only in Japan has been brought to life in stunning Pantone colours. New translations published in Finnish, Korean and Italian.
Hippu and a Friend (Hippu)
Age 1+ | 28 pages | Kodansha | 1976
Heppu and a House (Heppu)
Age 1+ | 28 pages | Kodansha| 1976
Misu and a Balloon (Misu)
Age 1+ | 28 pages | Kodansha | 1976
Pommo and a Ball (Pommo)
Age 1+ | 28 pages | Kodanhsa | 1976
The Wood Mouse’s Dance (Metsähiiren tanssi)
25 pages | Otava |1990
Pirkko-Liisa Surojegin (b. 1950) is renowned for her delicate and precise illustration style, which charms both children and adults. Most recently, her books have been published in Chinese, English, Italian, German, Russian and Spanish.
Rights sold in 10 languages!
Finnish Animal Fables (Suomen lasten eläinsadut)
Age 6+ | 166 pages | Otava | 1997
Finnish Animal Fables offers a path into the mysterious green world of the Forest Kingdom. It brings Finland’s forest and its animals close to the children of today and reminds us that the forest is our spiritual home, a sanctuary and a seedbed for adventure.
All sorts of forest creatures cavort across the pages of the book: a big, strong bear, a tricky fox, a dour wolf, a quick-witted rabbit, and many other rogues.
Untu and the Secret of the Heart of Winter (Untu ja sydäntalven salaisuus)
Age 6+ | 104 pages | Otava | 2012
Tiny elf Untu Willi heads north from his seaside hut to unravel the mystery of the light of Christmas. On his way, he encounters a variety of animals and creatures, some helpful and some not so much. Untu is not so easily discouraged, however, and in the end, he achieves his goal. In the glow of the northern lights, Untu meets the father of Christmas.
Untu and the Secret of the Heart of Winter is a beautiful and beguiling picture book for the whole family, illustrated by Pirkko-Liisa Surojegin and written by her daughter Nora Surojegin.
The Gnome’s Last Journey (Maahisen viimeinen matka)
32 pages | Otava |1995
Children’s Kalevala (Suomen lasten Kalevala)
Age 6+ | 184 pages | Otava | 2002
Nina Pirhonen (b. 1975)
is a multi-talented picture book author and fashion and graphic designer. She knows her target audience: bold designs and bright colours, whether it is vehicles, animals or a tantrum-prone toddler. New character Leo the Lion has a very personal touch. Nina's latest picture book project is a vehicle series published by Macmillan Children's Books UK.
“The color scale of the illustration is as from a print by Marimekko”
Kuvittaja magazine
Age 2+ | 32
Age 2+ | 32 pages | Otava | 2024
In the fourth book Leo and his friends Papa, Kosmo and Mishka build a wonderful hut together at daycare. But when it's finished, everyone wants to play a different game, and the fun soon turns into a dispute. As frustration grows the joyous day turns rotten and the friends are grumpy with each other. But not long until Leo and his friends learn that apologies have a magical touch.
Age 2+ | 32 pages | Otava | 2020
Age
Leo the Lion Makes Friends (Leo Leijona tykkää kavereista) Leo the Lion Faces His Fears (Leo Leijona voittaa pelon)
Ninka Reittu (b. 1982)
is an award-winning author-illustrator, who is based in Liperi in Eastern Finland. Reittu imbues both images and text with a uniquely heart-warming air. Her inspiration of her children and animals are visible in the lively details in her illustrations. Her touching Super-series on a father and son relationship has been nominated for various awards, including You Are Super Loved for Finlandia Junior in 2017. Her books have been translated into ten languages to date.
Rights sold in Danish, German and Serbian!
Tully and Roly Meet Amazing Bob (Pulla Vehnänen ja ihmeellinen Paavo)
Age 3+ | 32 pages | Otava | 2024
Tully's and Roly's friendship is put to the test when a new child moves in next door.
Tully and her pony Roly are the best of friends. Until one day, their new neighbour Bob, appears at the gate. After that, it’s all about Bob for Tully. It's as if Roly no longer exists! Roly is furious and shows it in all pony-like ways.
Through many twists and turns, Tully and Roly realise that there can be many friends - and they can all be the best.
Tully and Roly’s Night in the Treehouse (Pulla Vehnänen ja yö puumajassa)
Age 3+ | 32 pages | Otava | 2023
Tully and Roly are tired of the grandmothers always telling them what to do. They want to decide for themselves, and the tree house at the back of the yard is a great place to try an independent life. But when the evening gets dark, independent living no longer feels so intriguing. Fortunately, the grandmothers start to understand that even children and ponies need to be able to have their say too.
Tully and Roly the Pony (Ystäväni Pulla Vehnänen)
Age 3+ | 32 pages | Otava | 2021
Little Tully lives on a cosy farm together with her grandmothers and dreams about having her very own pony. When she encounters Roly at the nearby stables, she is convinced that this is the pony of her dreams. But suspicious Roly isn’t as sure and turns out to be as snappy as Tully herself. A charming story about newfound friendship between a pony and a little girl.
Running from a T-Rex (Jagad av en T-rex)
Carl-Otto Johansson (b. 1976) is the children’s music performer behind the stage name Daddy Donut (Pappa Kapsyl in Sweden). He released his first record in 2012 and has been touring with his unique dinosaur rock ever since.
Ola Lindblom (b. 1979)
The illustrator Ola Lindblom brings to life the chase and thrill in Daddy Donut's texts. He is an illustrator and a librarian.
Age 3+ | 24 pages | Rabén & Sjögren | 2022
Daddy Donut is buying a hot dog when an ill-mannered T-Rex suddenly shows up and wants a bite. The best thing to do is to take the hot dog and run, but the T-Rex follows, and a thrilling chase begins.
The rhyming text gallops through the pages and the quirky illustrations encourage to play hide and seek with the dinosaur. You can almost taste the hot dog!
Running from a T-Rex is the debut picture book by Daddy Donut, one of Sweden’s most popular children’s artists. Daddy Donut is also well-known internationally and his English Youtube channel has over 40 million views. Universal Music Group is planning to launch Daddy Donut in Germany as Papa Brezel.
Dinosaur ABC (Dinosauriernas ABC)
Age 5+ | 60 pages | Rabén & Sjögren | 2023
In the hilarious and quirky world of Dinosaur ABC, readers will not only learn the alphabet, they will also be invited to come along with Alice Allosaurus at the zoo, see the crazy hair styles of Carl Corythosaurus, find out how little raptors go about when they want to run away, and experience sibling rivalry between Wilmer and Wilma Wannaosaurus. Dinosaurs, learning and fun introduced by the popular children’s entertainer.
Susanne Trydal (b. 1981)
comes from Åsa, a small town near Kungsbacka on the west coast of Sweden. She has worked in the publishing industry throughout her adult life. Trydal’s debut book, the first part of the fantasy trilogy about Hallahem that she co-wrote with Daniel Åhlin, was published in 2015.
Ellen Ekman (b. 1986)
is an illustrator and cartoonist, who has created several picture books with other authors and is known for the series Little Berlin. Her first own picture book, Idde och hajen (Idde and the Shark) was published in 2019.
Ekman has received numerous awards and prizes including the Albert Engström's Youth Prize, the Stora Pondus Prize, the Swedish Series Academy's Adamson Statuette and the Rosenström Culture Prize.
Danish rights sold!
Do You Dare, Stella? (Är du rädd, Stella?)
Age 3+ | 32 pages | Rabén & Sjögren | 2022
Stella's big sister Agnes is going to babysit for a couple of hours while their mom and dad are away on a parent-teacher meeting. Agnes is not so interested in playing, but Stella wants to build a pillow fort and after nagging a bit, her big sister helps. When the magnificent fort is done, Stella and Agnes turn down the lights and collect all their stuffed animals inside. Then suddenly, Agnes wants to tell ghost stories, if Stella dares! Stella does dare, at least a little bit, but both sisters become spooked in the end.
Look out, Stella!
(Se upp, Stella!)
Age 3+ | 32 pages | Rabén & Sjögren | 2021
A warm and humorous portrayal of sibling rivalry and affection, but also a poignant depiction of how children deal with their inner fears. Stella is five years old and has the world's best big sister. Agnes is cool, older and stronger, and she already goes to school. But when their mother says that Stella must visit the eye doctor, jealous Agnes tricks her little sister into thinking that she's going blind. The following night worried Stella cannot sleep, and the next morning she decides to practice being blind. Moving around in her daily life at home and daycare with her eyes closed turns out to be a challenge.
Johanna Lumme (b.1990)
is an artist and illustrator, who is recognised for her illustrations in Finnish primary school books, written with author Siri Kolu, and other collaborations.. The Jungle Crew is her debut picture book. Johanna is also the illustrator of the middle-grade series Wild House and The Woken Ones (see p. 44-45).
Turkish & Italian rights sold!
Pressing themes of climate change and migration are gently depicted in this picture book series that follows three friends who escape from their home in the jungle to the big city. Each page is filled with stunning illustrations which bring to life all the wonders and quirkiness of the jungle citizens as they make their way in a new neighborhood. The Madagascar styled adventures lead to discussion about adapting into new surroundings and new beginnings. The rights have been sold in Italy.
The Jungle Crew – The Sprouting Rebellion (Viidakon väki ja versova kapina)
Age 5+ | 40 pages | Otava | 2022
The Jungle Crew - Storm Ahead (Viidakon väki ja myrskyn merkit)
Age 5+ | 36 pages | Otava | 2023
Can Rupert the Fox outsmart an impending storm?
Everyone living under roof of the Jungle Villa knows that Roope is a master of inventions. When a storm approaches the city, the other residents suggest that Roope could invent something to ward it off.
Roope puts all his skills into play, he wants to be the hero the others portray him as. But trying to influence the forces of nature is harder than anyone can imagine. And when no ideas emerge, Roope’s feels as gloomy as the dark sky over the city. Can failure be a stroke of luck?
The Jungle Crew –Into the Deep Blue (Viidakon väki ja ihmeellinen sininen)
Age 5+ | 40 pages | Otava | 2021
The Jungle Crew –The Secret of the Garden (Viidakon väki ja puutarhan salaisuus)
Age 5+ | 40 pages | Otava | 2020
(Viidakon väki ja suuri muutto)
Age 5+ | 32 pages | Otava | 2019
Lejon kommer
Sanna Sofia Vuori (b. 1981)
is an author and she has many active roles in the children’s cultural scene. Her first picture book The Egg illustrated by Linda Bondestam, (page 28-29) was nominated for the Finlandia Junior in 2018.
Cara Knuutinen (b. 1965)
is a teacher in art education and a beloved illustrator of various books. She was nominated for the Rudolf Koivu prize in 2009.
Badger Goes Missing (Grävling borta)
Age 1+ | 24 pages | Förlaget M | 2020
Danish & German rights sold!
In this warm story with very mild peril, a child has a fluffy toy she calls Badger. One day she takes him to the kindergarten but along the way, Badger is forgotten in the hurry. Left behind in a park, Badger meets another stuffed animal, a ragged rabbit, who has been through the worst possible experience that a plush toy could imagine. Badger, however, does not give up, and becomes reunited with the child.
Badger Meets the Lion (Lejon kommer)
Age 1+ | 24 pages | Förlaget M | 2022
In this lovely wintery sequel, Badger and the child celebrate Christmas at her grandfather’s cabin. Under the Christmas tree, there is an exciting package that rustles, and in it they find a wild lion lurking, a new stuffed animal for the child. Badger’s whole world changes as he comes to feel what resembles sibling rivalry. Despite the feeling of jealousy, however, Badger also experiences the joy of having a new friend and sibling.
Badger Blames the Lion (Skyll på Lejon)
Age 1+ | 24 pages | Förlaget M | 2024
Badger, Lion and the child are celebrating Easter in the countryside with Grandpa. There's an outdoor egg hunt and many fun festivities in the village, but what will happen when Lion is just mucking around and being disobedient? And what spooky things are lurking in the dark at bedtime?
Badger Blames the Lion is a delightful story about learning to appreciate the difference in others. It's okay to be different, the most important thing is that everyone gets to play.
Katri Kirkkopelto (b. 1966)
is an award-winning artist, illustrator and art teacher who has a special talent for tailoring serious content to appeal to young children. She works closely with schools on material about emotional growth. Her books support the child’s emotional and self-regulating development, and they have been translated into Dutch, Estonian, Latvian, Lithuanian and Russian to date.
Rights sold in 5 languages!
The Finlandia Junior Prize nominee Piki series focuses on pre-school bullying and is part of the Finnish anti-bullying program for early childhood educational groups. The insightful and lovely illustration of each book is full of emotion as it accurately reflects the feelings of Piki and others. A perfect storytime read for any nursery-aged child that supports emotional intelligence.
Piki - Why can't I Join in?
(Piki - Minäkin haluan mukaan)
Age 4+ | 32 pages |
Lasten Keskus | 2016
“Pyjama clowns are not allowed inside!” Piki stands baffled outside the clubhouse with a superhero cape around his shoulders. His new-found nursery friends are not allowing him to join after all, but instead slam the door in front of his nose. At home, the tears fall.
Piki is a story about bullying, recurring in a group, building confidence, emotions, and friendship. It was nominated for the Finlandia Junior Prize in 2016.
Piki’s Stormy Day (Piki ja pöljä päivä)
Age 4+ | 32 pages | Lasten Keskus | 2020
Piki feels small and lonely at nursery, and to hide it he decides to be Storm – the wildest superhero who is not afraid of anything. But as Storm, you don’t play smoothly with others, you have to quarrel, and your anger just gets worse. With cuddles, kind words and saying sorry, Storm disappears. The second book in Piki series is a moving story about group challenges, feelings, self-esteem, and friendship.
Piki and the Wild Gadget (Piki ja villi vekotin)
Age 4+ | 32 pages |
Lasten Keskus | 2024
Piki and the Wild Gadget is the third book in the muchloved Piki series in which Piki gets his first smartphone. It is a topical story about bullying, emotions and friendship through a smart device. The picture book encourages children to reflect on their phone use: is a smartphone a nice friend or a lousy gadget? It also gently reminds the importance of balancing screen time with other activities and experiencing the real world.
Blue's Topsy Turvy Day (Molli ja väärä jälka)
Age 2+ | 24 pages | Lasten keskus | 2023
Blue and the Silly Sickness (Molli ja pöpi pipi)
Age 2+ | 24 pages
Lasten Keskus | 2022
Blue and the Edge of the World (Molli ja maan ääri)
Age 4+ | 40 pages |
Lasten Keskus | 2019
Blue’s Bedtime Fit of Laughter (Mollin iltahepuli)
Age 2+ | 24 pages | Lasten keskus | 2020
Blue’s Christmas (Mollin joulu)
Age 3+ | 34 pages | Lasten keskus | 2022
Blue and the Strange One (Molli ja Kumma)
4+ | 36 pages |
Lasten Keskus | 2018
Blue and the Green Pea (Molli ja hirveä herne)
Age 2+ | 24 pages
Lasten keskus | 2020
Blue and Mysterious Messy (Molli ja salaperäinen Suttu)
Age 3+ | 40 pages | Lasten keskus | 2021
Blue (Molli)
Age 4+ | 34 pages |
Lasten keskus | 2016
Linda Bondestam (b. 1977) is one of the most celebrated illustrators of her generation and has collaborated with many authors in Finland and abroad. She has been nominated numerous times for her vivid and playful illustrations, including the ALMA award, the August Prize and Finlandia Junior. In 2017, she won the Nordic Council’s Children and Young People’s Literature Prize. Her works have been translated into Danish, Dutch, English, Finnish, German, Hungarian, Italian, Korean, Latvian, and Norwegian.
Laura Ruohonen (b. 1960) is one of the most prominent playwrights in Finland, a poet, and director whose works have been translated into 27 different languages. She has been granted several awards, including the Kordelin Foundation's literary award and the Pro Finlandia in 2010.
The Whole Caboodle (Hela Konkarongen/Konkkaronkka)
Age 3+ | 40 pages | Förlaget/Otava | 2023
A whole caboodle arrives on an island for an adventure. Their guide greets them, but how do you manage to keep a whole, wild bunch like this together?
The readers get to follow along on relentless adventures up in the air, above volcanoes, down into underwater caves, out on narrow cliff jumps, and straight into the desert. Toys, socks, and friends fall and disappear into all kinds of holes - but in the end everything is found, and much more than you could imagine.
This brilliant new rhyming book walks in the footsteps of Tove Jansson’s classic The Book about Moomin, Mymble and Little My. Like the classic, this book has cut-out holes through which the journey goes. Laura Ruohonen has written the lively and fun adventure, and it is brought to life with breathtaking pictures by Linda Bondestam.
The book is published simultaneously in Swedish by Förlaget and in Finnish by Otava.
Rights sold in 10 languages!
Good Night Earth (God natt på jorden)
Age 3+ | 40 pages | Förlaget M |2018
Linda Bondestam’s debut as a picture book author is a beautiful bedtime story that stands out with its visual storytelling and illustrations full of wit and tenderness. The English edition was published in spring 2021.
If You Meet a Bear (Om du möter en björn)
40 pages | Förlaget M | 2021
This quirky field guide has been co-authored by Malin Kivelä and Martin Glaz Serup and brought to life by Linda Bondestam’s artwork.
If You Meet a Bear was nominted for two prestigious Nordic literary prizes in 2021: the August Prize and the Finlandia Junior Prize. It was also nominated for the Runeberg Junior in Finland, and for the Nordic Council Prize in 2022!
“If You Meet a Bear takes hold of the full potential of the picture book format.”
August prize jury 2021
My Life at the Bottom (Mitt bottenliv)
Age 4+ | 42 pages | Förlaget M | 2020
Om du har med dig en korg med bär så är det nog smartast att du bara ger den till björnen så fort som möjligt.
An enchanting and touching story about climate change, told by the voice of an astonishing and rare axolotl, on how the environment is affected and changed. English edition was published in spring 2022.
Good Morning Space (God morgon rymden)
Age 3+ | 40 pages | Förlaget M | 2022
Good Morning Space is a sequel to Linda Bondestam’s celebrated Good Night Earth. This time the perspective is reversed – it is now a child on Earth who is looking at other space beings.
"The illustrations invite us to step into a small person’s life, alone in a new and foreign country. The book’s short and melancholic text, together with the illustrations, creates a strong emotional experience for both the reader and the listener."
Runeberg Junior Prize jury 2022
Det samma eller något
Du kan också sjunga för den eller berätta
Martin Glaz Serup (b. 1978)
is an awarded Danish author who has publsihed several children’s books, poetry collections, and prose work, and also works as a literary critic for different publications. He has co-written the multi-award nominee If You Meet a Bear, see page 29.
Kristian Eskild Jensen (b. 1972)
is a renowed Danish illustrator who graduated from the Kent Institute of Art and Design in Maidstone, UK, in 1999. He has worked with illustrations, animations, and graphic design. Jensen has illustrated numerous Danish comic series and picture books and won the Danish Ministry of Culture’s Illustrator Prize in 2017 for the book Og de onde lo.
The Troll on the Third Floor and Two Other Tales (Trolden på tredje og to andre eventyr)
Age 6+ | 44 pages | Gads Forlag | 2022
Three frightening and magical tales to become the new Danish classics.
A man-eater prowls freely in town each night kidnapping people, so a young girl must go after the monster in its cavern to save her father. But what looks like a giant mole turns out to be a cursed man in disguise.
The son of a merchant inherits his father’s shop and a magic suitcase that can take him anywhere in the world. He promises his father to do what he never did: fly far away on the suitcase. But the son seems more interested in having a shop than travelling around the world.
There is a troll living on the third floor. Two brothers decide to courageously lure the troll to his death, leaving their younger brother behind. But the troll is not so easy to lure, even with pies and cakes, and their younger brother proves to be braver and cleverer than they assumed.
The Man-Eater, The Suitcase and The Troll on the Third Floor are three grim yet mesmerizing stories, written in the tradition of the best Danish fairy tales by Martin Glaz Serup, and illustrated with wonderfully thrilling pictures by Kristian Eskild Jensen.
"Several titles play with fairy tales, but here we are talking about a work that elevates itself artistically through genre play, iconic text, and a belief in the child's literary framework of understanding… The Troll on the Third Floor and Two Other Tales belongs in the premier league of children's literature."
Bogbotten.dk, part of IBBY Denmark
Finlandia
Nominee 2023!
Aleksi Korpela (b. 1986) and Meri Korpela (b. 1990) have backgrounds in art and design: they are artists, sculptors and graphic designers. Meri writes the stories and Aleksi illustrates but they share the creative process and work on the details together. Their picture book Fearless Field-mouse and he Snow Labyrinth was shortlisted for 2023 Children's and Youth Literature Finlandia Prize
Fearless Field-mouse – Hero’s Journey (Peloton Peltohiiri –Sankarin matka)
Age 5+ | 144 pages | Otava | 2024
A mesmerizing bind-up of all four seasonal stories of the redcaped furry little fiedlmouses’s heroic journey. On each quest, he encounters many challenges along the way, and despite the fear and self-doubt, he emerges stronger and more self-confident.
Fearless Field-mouse Raises to the Challenge (Peloton peltohiiriKaksintaistelu)
Age 5+ | 32 pages | Otava | 2020
Fearless Field-mouse and the Snow Labyrinth (Peloton Peltohiiri –Lumilabyrintti)
Age 5+ | 32 pages | Otava | 2023
Fearless Field-mouse and the Nut Whack (Peloton Peltohiiri ja pähkinätäräys)
Age 5+ | 32 pages | Otava | 2021
Fearless Field-mouse (Peloton peltohiiri)
Age 5+ | 48 pages | Otava | 2019
Johanna Witick (b. 1982 )
is an artist, author and graphic designer from Helsinki. Witick has worked as a graphic designer since 2002 and become a prolific artist with her own unique style. Her love of art comes from her childhood when drawing became an important hobby, and this inspired her to create her own series of books with a quirky character, Ozzy the Squirrel. Witick’s inspiration for Ozzy comes from her childhood neighborhood with plenty of squirrels living and moving around nearby.
Stories from Squirrelvalley: Ozzy and Chirp (Oravalaakson tarinat: Ossi ja Titityy)
Age 6+ | 48 pages | Otava | 2023
Estonian, Calatan and Spanish rights sold!
A colourful and quirky graphic novel, Stories from Squirrelvalley introduces small readers to Ozzy, a curious squirrel, who is adopted by a cautious snail. After finding an abandoned egg, Ozzy makes his way through Squirrelvalley to find a home for the egg, while meeting peculiar animals on the way. What makes this series stand out is the sweet but not saccharine style and humour with little jokes reminiscent of The Simpsons for a suitably young age group, and the world which expands beyond Squirrelvalley in the future books.
This is a delightful read with many meaningful questions of who you are and what you want to be, including ignoring all advice by carers and even a philosophical dilemma of whether a wolf should become a vegetarian.
Stories from Squirrelvalley: World's Biggest Pinecone (Oravalaakson tarinat: Maailman suurin käpy)
Age 6+ | 48 pages | Otava | 2024
The madcap comic adventure of Ozzy the Squirrel and Chirp the Bird continues.
A giant pinecone breaks the peace of Squirrelvalley. Ozzy and Chirp’s tranquil life in rainbowy Squirrelvalley takes an unexpected turn when a surprise falls on their path: the world's largest pinecone!
Other squirrels are green with envy. They too want a piece of the giant, miraculous pinecone. From there begins a wild chase with no shortage of twists and turns. The pinecone must be protected!
This hilarious and laugh-out-loud series will guarantee giggles and entice readers to read on.
Martin Widmark (b. 1961)
is a Swedish writer and teacher. He is considered one of the most prominent writers of children’s fiction today. LasseMajas Detektivbyrå, (The JerryMaya Detective Agency) has been translated into more than 35 languages. Widmark's books are constantly on the best-seller lists, on the libraries’ most popular lists, and together with Helena Willis, he has been awarded the children’s own book award 11 times for the JerryMaya titles.
Helena Willis (b. 1964)
is a Swedish illustrator and author. Helena claims to have the best job in the world: “I play all day and every day.” Together with Martin Widmark, she has been creating the book series of JerryMaya Detective Agency since 2002.
The comic magazine was launched by Egmont in Sweden in 2020, with six issues planned yearly. Rights & Brands sells all material for the artwork used in the magazine, activity book albums and omnibus releases. Each magazine contains two new stories.
Book rights sold to Poland, Norway, Finland Germany and Denmark to date.
28 pages | 2021
JerryMaya Detective Agency Comic 2023 Omnibus edition
Age 6+ | 174 pages | 2023
JerryMaya Detective Agency Comic 2022 Omnibus edition
Age 6+ | 174 pages | 2022
JerryMaya Detective Agency Activity Book
Age 6+ | 24 pages | 2022
Series 1
Camilla Brinck (b. 1974 )
Camilla Brinck was born and raised outside of Stockholm. She has a passion for creative work and in addition to writing, she has also worked as an artist, songwriter, producer and DJ. Camilla thinks that being able to create for children is one of the best things you can do.
Maxi & Helium are two tiny mice who just so happen to be siblings. They take us to their magical world, filled with adventures and entertainment for the whole family. In their colourful world of magic, you’re in for a whirl of excitement and humour!
The Maxi & Helium books, originally titled “Musse & Helium” in the Nordic, are the fastest-growing children’s book series ever in Sweden and Norway. But it’s more than just a successful fantasybook series – it’s a 360-degree concept that extends from literature to music, games and performances. Maxi & Helium is about conveying positive and empowering messages to children all over the world. The concept is based on the universal values of friendship, collaboration, and innovation.
The Hole in the Wall (Mysteriet med hålet i väggen) Age 5+ | 163 pages | 2018
Mouse siblings Maxi and Helium live with Camilla as ordinary pets until one day a mysterious mouse hole opens up in the wall. The curious and enterprising siblings set out to investigate the door and are transported to a secret fairy-tale world called the Animal Kingdom where they must solve a royal quest. They must find the missing Golden Cheese and secure the Animal Kingdom from the evil Hunter Doves and all evil forces.
| 2019
| 2019
The Mysterious Hole begins a five-part adventure series that takes them on a journey into a mysterious realm filled with the most imaginative and strange creatures.
2020
| 2020
