Elsa Beskow, Swedish children’s author, was born today in 1874. The only book of hers that I am familiar with is Pelle’s New Suit, a picture book about a boy who discovers all the work that goes into producing a new suit of clothes. I like this book, and it’s in Picture Book Preschool, my book of recommended books for reading to preschoolers. According to kirjasto, Beskow was criticized for her old-fashioned portrayals of families. Good for Beskow! I must look at more of her picture books; I like strong. brave dads and obedient, loving mothers. Good-natured children are a pretty good deal, too.

“In the 1960s and 1970s Beskow’s work was considered by many critics old-fashioned. Her idyllic pictures, full of good-natured children, animals, brownies, and flowers, were seen to present false ideals. Also her gender roles were seen as too narrow: “the father is strong and brave, and the mother is obedient and loving” (from Tomtebobarnen). According to Gunvor Häkansson, Beskow satisfies authoritative ideals in the upbringing of children, but Astrid Lindgren represents more democratic principles.”