Tuula Korolainen interviews the Institute’s new director Maria Ihonen, who is a former researcher and teacher at Tampere University. Ihonen specialises in fantasy literature and is currently researching Philip Pullman’s His Dark Materials -trilogy. Whereas the Institute’s activities centre on Finnish literature, Ihonen is above all familiar with British and world literature. She does not, however, see this as a conflict of interests, since "I’ve taught and examined both Finnish and world literature at university level. It is always good to have an in-depth international historical perspective with which to compare Finnish children’s literature and its development.” 

Niklas Bengtsson analyses Georgia Byng’s Molly Moon-series. He concludes e.g. that her books are almost realistic to begin with, since the plot draws on the phenomenon of hypnosis. Later on, however, the series increasing resembles fantasy and sci-fi. According to Bengtsson, Byng investigates and criticises modern world phenomena, violates fantasy clichés and strives with every new book to surpass previous achievements. Byng’s plots are so inventive that they may give readers a headache!

Anne Rande, director of the Estonian Children's Literature Information Centre, introduces the centre and its new premises in the Art Nouveau building on Pikk-street. The centre was founded – under another name – already in 1933. The heart of the present-day centre is the library, which collects and spreads information about children’s literature just like e.g. the Finnish Institute for Children’s Literature. In Estonia, however, the centre is combined with a centre for children’s culture offering services to children and their parents. The centre has 15 staff members.

Mari Niitra writes about patriotism in contemporary Estonian poetry for children. For the Estonian people freedom is still a miracle, yet freedom and independence are subjects surprisingly rarely raised in children’s poetry. The field of poetry is dominated by the old masters, but there are new-comers, such as Wimberg, Heiki Villep and Aidi Vallik. When Estonia gained autonomy, the old-fashioned high and ceremonial language was “devaluated”. The new Estonian poets see language as located in people, native language, nature and everyday situations. The nation, institutions and special days are depicted with humour and irony. 

Riitta Kuivasmäki writes about SNI’s 30-year-long relations with Estonia. Conferences, lectures, exhibitions, publications, consultancy etc. are the result of this mutual collaboration. Long-term colleagues are e.g. Reet Krusten, Mall Reinold and Sirje Saimre. Krusten might even be called Onnimanni’s correspondent in Estonia.

Leena Laakso remembers boys’ books from her childhood, which “offered a realm of freedom and adventure for girls who were not satisfied with the role of a fainting Jane”. Tarzan and Tom Sawyer are among Laakso’s favourites. With their timeless optimism, these characters are a source of strength also for adults.

The Arts Council of Finland and the president have awarded Kirsi Kunnas, poet and translator into Finnish, Academician of Art for her merits as a children’s author and a promoter of children’s literature. The honorary title, which is given in recognition of remarkable achievements in the arts, can simultaneously be bestowed on 11 people. Author Hannele Huovi has received the prestigious Eino Leino-award for her wide-ranging and versatile literary works.
 

Translation: Maria Lassén-Seger