Summary
Pippi Longstocking is a celebrated children's novel by Swedish author Astrid Lindgren, first published in 1945. The narrative unfolds in a small Swedish village, introducing Pippi Longstocking, a uniquely independent and strong nine-year-old girl with striking red pigtails. Pippi lives in Villa Villekulla with her pet monkey, Mr. Nilsson, a horse without a name, and a suitcase full of gold, under no adult supervision. Pippi's life is a string of adventures, marked by her superhuman strength and her unconventional approach to life’s challenges and societal norms.
The story begins when Tommy and Annika Settergren, siblings from the neighborhood, befriend Pippi who has just moved next door. Stepping into Pippi’s world, they embark on numerous adventures, from attending school and a circus to hosting a coffee party which invariably end in humorous mishaps due to Pippi’s unconventional manners and lack of experience with societal customs. Despite her peculiar ways, Pippi’s heart and courage win over everyone around her. Through her adventures, Pippi Longstocking continues to inspire readers with her independence, strength, and unbound spirit, remaining a timeless icon in children's literature.
This enchanting tale has not only won the hearts of children worldwide but also received critical acclaim. In 2002, the Norwegian Nobel Institute highlighted the novel as one of the Top 100 Works of World Literature. Further cementing its status, Pippi Longstocking was ranked number 91 in School Library Journal’s list of the Top 100 Children’s Novels in 2012. Over the years, Pippi Longstocking has been translated into more than 40 languages, spreading its charm across cultures and generations.
The legacy of Pippi Longstocking spans beyond the printed word into numerous adaptations, including films, television series, and stage productions. Notable adaptations include the 1949 Swedish film, a Mosfilm television film in 1984, a US feature film in 1988, and consideration for an anime project by Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata. The most recognized adaptation in Sweden is the 1969 TV series, directed by Olle Hellbom with author Astrid Lindgren writing the script, which has become the most beloved portrayal of Pippi in Sweden and several European countries.
Themes
Independence and self-reliance
Imagination and adventure
Non-conformity
Friendship
Loyalty
Resilience in the face of loss
Strength and courage
Child's perspective on the adult world
Setting
The setting of Pippi Longstocking is integral to its whimsical and adventurous spirit. The story takes place in a small, unspecified Swedish village, grounding the narrative in a picturesque and serene Scandinavian environment. This village is home to Villa Villekulla, the large, seemingly autonomous house where the protagonist, Pippi Longstocking, lives. Pippi's residence marks a focal point of the tale, symbolizing freedom and imagination against the backdrop of the larger, quiet community.
Author Astrid Lindgren does not assign a particular year or decade to Pippi Longstocking, leaving room for the story's timeless appeal and relatability. However, given the publication date and societal norms loosely referenced in the book, it can be inferred that it takes place in mid-20th-century Sweden. This period detail, though subtle, contributes to the charming and somewhat nostalgic atmosphere of the narrative, offering a glimpse into post-war Sweden while maintaining a universal and enduring relevance. Together, the geographical setting and the era create a canvas for Pippi's extraordinary adventures, contrasting the conventional and the mundane with the limitless possibilities of imagination and independence.
Characters
Pippi Longstocking: A nine-year-old girl known for her incredible strength, red pigtails, and adventurous spirit. She lives alone in Villa Villekulla with her pet monkey and horse.
Mr. Nilsson: Pippi's pet monkey, who lives with her in her house, Villa Villekulla.
Pippi's unnamed pet horse: Lives on the porch of Villa Villekulla with Pippi and Mr. Nilsson.
Tommy Settergren: A local boy who, along with his sister Annika, becomes one of Pippi's closest friends.
Annika Settergren: Tommy's sister and one of Pippi's good friends.
Mrs. Settergren: Tommy and Annika's mother, who hosts a coffee party that Pippi attends.
FAQs
Who is the author of the Pippi Longstocking series, and when was the first book published?
Astrid Lindgren is the author of the Pippi Longstocking series, which made its debut with Pippi Longstocking in November 1945 in Sweden.
What is the book about?
Pippi Longstocking chronicles the adventures of its titular heroine, a nine-year-old girl with incredible strength, who lives in a big house called Villa Villekulla in a small Swedish village with her pet monkey Mr. Nilsson and an unnamed pet horse. Her adventures with the local children, Tommy and Annika Settergren, involve attending school, a circus, and a coffee party, showcasing her unique view of the world and sense of independence.
What makes Pippi Longstocking a unique character in children's literature?
Pippi Longstocking is unique because of her superhuman strength, independence, lack of respect for convention, and her humorous misadventures that challenge the societal norms of her time. The character stands out for living alone without adult supervision and possessing a good heart. She always stands up against bullies and injustice.
How many books are in the Pippi Longstocking series, and what are their formats?
There are three full-length Pippi books published between 1945 and 1948, and three shorter stories published later. Additionally, excerpts from these books have been illustrated and published as picture books.
Into what languages has the book been translated?
Pippi Longstocking has been translated into more than 40 languages, often accompanied by new illustrations unique to those editions.
What adaptations have been made based on the character of Pippi Longstocking?
There have been several adaptations, including films starting in 1949, a notable Japanese anime feature proposal by Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata that was ultimately not realized, a Russian adaptation in 1984, an American feature film in 1988, and an animated film and TV series by Nelvana in 1997. Additionally, there have been television adaptations, including a 1969 Swedish TV series which is the most well-known adaptation in Sweden and several European countries, and a musical play performed by children's theater troupes.
Has the book received any notable accolades?
Yes, in 2002, the Norwegian Nobel Institute listed Pippi Longstocking as one of the Top 100 Works of World Literature, based on polling one hundred authors from 54 countries. In 2012, Pippi Longstocking was ranked number 91 on a list of the Top 100 Children's Novels published by School Library Journal.
Quotes
“I have never tried that before, so I think I should definitely be able to do that.”
“But Nightshirts aren't dangerous," Pippi assured her. "They don't bite anybody except in self defense.”
“But still, if it's true, how can it be a lie?”
“Don't you worry about me. I'll always come out on top.”
“He's the strongest man in the world.”
'Man, yes,' said Pippi, 'but I am the strongest girl in the world, remember that.“Lass dich nicht unterkriegen; sei frech und wild und wunderbar.” which means (in English) “Do not let it get you; Be naughty and wild and wonderful."
“I have noticed several times that people don't think I know how to behave even when I'm trying as hard as I can.”
“I can't study anymore because I must climb the mast to see what kind of weather we're going to have tomorrow.”
Quick facts
Astrid Lindgren was inspired to create Pippi Longstocking while telling stories to her daughter, Karin, who was ill with pneumonia.
The character Pippi Longstocking first appeared in 1945 after Lindgren won a children's book contest sponsored by the publishing house Rabén & Sjögren.
Lindgren, who went on to write a total of 34 chapter books for children, received the prestigious Hans Christian Andersen Award for Writing in 1958.
Pippi Longstocking has been translated into more than 40 languages.
The first English translation was published in the United States in 1950, five years after its original release in Sweden.
A unique proposal for an anime adaptation of Pippi Longstocking, by acclaimed Japanese animators Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata, was ultimately rejected by Astrid Lindgren.
The 1969 Swedish TV series, written by Astrid Lindgren herself, is among the most beloved and well-known adaptations of the Pippi Longstocking series.
In 2002, the Norwegian Nobel Institute listed Pippi Longstocking as one of the Top 100 Works of World Literature.
In addition to books and films, Pippi Longstocking has been adapted into animated series and feature on numerous TV shows, including a notable episode of Shirley Temple's Storybook in 1961.
The delightful book series also inspired Pippi Longstocking: The Musical, which continues to be performed by children's theater groups across North America.
The character of Pippi has been portrayed by various actresses over the years, including Inger Nilsson in the 1969 TV series, which is highly regarded in Sweden and Europe.
About the author
Astrid Lindgren was born on November 14, 1907, in Vimmerby, Sweden, and became one of the world's most renowned children's book authors. Her literary career began in 1944 when she won a children's book competition, leading to the publication of the first Pippi Longstocking book a year later. Over her lifetime, Lindgren wrote 34 chapter books and 41 picture books, amassing sales of approximately 170 million copies worldwide and translations into over 100 languages.Lindgren's contributions to children's literature have been recognized globally, with her works, most notably the Pippi Longstocking and Karlsson-on-the-Roof series, becoming staples in children's fantasy literature. Not only did she leave a lasting impact through her written works, but Lindgren also worked fervently for the rights of children and animal welfare. Her advocacy contributed to the adoption of the world's first law against corporal punishment of children in Sweden in 1979. She was similarly passionate about animal rights, culminating in the introduction of Lex Lindgren, a Swedish law named in her honor to promote animal welfare, on her 80th birthday.Lindgren's distinct voice and innovative storytelling earned her numerous accolades, including the prestigious Hans Christian Andersen Award for Writing in 1958 and the Right Livelihood Award in 1994 for her commitment to children's rights and respect for their individuality. She passed away in Stockholm on January 28, 2002, at the age of 94, and is remembered not only for her beloved characters and tales but also for her advocacy and contributions to society and literature. Following her death, the Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award was established to honor her memory, recognizing excellence in children's and youth literature globally.
