The 70-year-old classic doesn’t look a day over nine. On May 21, 1945, author Astrid Lindgren gave the first Pippi manuscript to her daughter Karin on her 10th birthday (the book was published in November of that year). Karin originally came up with Pippi’s name and asked her mother to write a story about her. People all over the world celebrated the birthday of the classic strong female protagonist from Sweden, demonstrating the character’s enduring international influence.
A window display for a Pippi party at children’s shop Liten Karin in Gothenburg, Sweden.
Skattkammar'n, a children’s store in Edsbyn, Sweden, put on their own party.
At the same party, a grown-up Pippi poses with Mr. Nilsson.
Swedish publisher Rabén & Sjögren recorded a special episode of its “Behind the Book” podcast with Lindgren’s daughter, Karin Nyman.
Finnish Instagram user Lena Mylläri, who posts projects as @dressupyouregg, created a special Pippi project, pictured here in front of Stockholm’s Gamla Stan (Old Town).
The Swedish Consulate in the United Arab Emirates organized activities at the recent Abu Dhabi International Book Fair; pictured here are young readers dressed up as the day’s heroine.
Another Abu Dhabi Book Fair attendee, posing in a Pippi standee.
“Pippi is Jinan in Arabic,” Twitter user @HelenaRietz shared, along with illustrations from students at Ahliyyah School for Girls in Amman, Jordan.
