Fast facts

• The award is given annually since 2003.

• It was established by the Swedish government tafter the death of Astrid Lindgren, to honor her memory.

• With a prize amount of 5 million Swedish kronor it is the largest award of its kind. That equates to about 462,000 euros, 400,000 British pounds or 550,000 US dollars. 

• It is awarded to authors, illustrators, oral storytellers and people or organisations that work with reading promotion for children and young people.

• The announcement takes place in the Spring. After the jury's decision-making meeting, the chairman of the jury makes the phone call to the laureate.

• The laureate will officially accepts the award at a solemn ceremony in which, among others, H.R.H: Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden and Swedish Minister for Culture and Democracy take part.

Photo of Astrid Lindgren: ® Roine Karlsson