Vulnerable youngsters

Els Pelgrom is one of the most important Dutch authors for children. Her books display great imagination, convincing empathy and talent for observation, coupled with stylistic care. In addition to stories based on true facts, Els Pelgrom also writes animal stories, and she often combines fiction with reality. Thus, De kinderen van het achtste woud (The Children from the Eighth Wood, 1977; translated into English as The Winter When Time Was Frozen) was inspired by the winter of famine she experienced as a child during the Second World War on a farm in the Veluwe. The book recounts the experiences of 11-year-old Noortje, who finds shelter on an isolated farm after the battle of Arnhem. She enjoys the warmth of the farmer’s family but also experiences the horrors of war. The story is noteworthy for its authentic tone and direct, penetrating observations.

Els Pelgrom (photo Flip Franssen)

For Kleine Sofie en Lange Wapper (Little Sophie and Lanky Flop, 1984) Els Pelgrom was awarded the highest prize yet. In this very special book, death and life, reality and imagination, cheerfulness and sadness go hand in hand. In a feverish dream the seriously ill Sofie’s dolls and animals act out all aspects of human life for her. With its rich symbolism, innumerable references, ingenious structure and poetic atmosphere, Kleine Sofie en Lange Wapper crowns Pelgrom’s many achievements. In the past few years Els Pelgrom has also reworked several classic masterpieces, for example Victor Hugo’s The Hunchback of Notre Dame.