Astrid Lindgren: The Woman Behind Pippi Longstocking

Pippi Longstocking is one of those very memorable fictional characters in children's literature. She was created by Astrid Lindgren, a country girl who moved to the big city. She overcame the stigma of being a single mother, financial hardship, depression, the terrors of World War II, and eventually became a leader in modern Swedish children’s literature. She also became involved in politcs and campaigned for equitable taxation, non-discrimination, animal rights and environmental issues. She was presented with the Right Livelihood Award, "For her commitment to justice, non-violence and understanding of minorities as well as her love and caring for nature."