Every year the Swedish government awards an international prize in memory of Astrid Lindgren. Astrid Lindgren was the writer who created Pippin Longstocking, a book character beloved by children all over the world. The literature prize is unique because authors, illustrators, story-tellers, and organizations are all eligible. Anyone who has made "valuable contributions to the promotion of reading" is considered for the prize.This year the Tamer Institute for Community Education won the prize. This organization has programs on the Gaza Strip and on the West Bank and it provides Palestinian children with a priceless service:
"With perseverance, audacity and resourcefulness, the Tamer Institute has, for two decades, stimulated Palestinian children’s and young adult’s love of reading and their creativity. Under difficult circumstances, the Institute carries out reading promotion of an unusual breadth and versatility. In the spirit of Astrid Lindgren, the Tamer Institute acknowledges the power of words and the strength of books, stories and imagination as important keys to self-esteem, tolerance and the courage to face life."
For more information about this year's winner please visit this webpage, and for more information about the award please take a look at this webpage.
