Mårten Sandén (Chair)

Photo: Maja Brand
How do you view your role as chair of the jury?
"It is a great honour to be entrusted with leading the Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award jury over the coming years. The award is unique and its mission is vital, and the jury’s range and expertise guarantee that the work will be both enjoyable and exciting."
When and where do you most like to read?
"Preferably for a few hours at night before I fall asleep, but in reality, I read all the time, everywhere. I try to always keep a book in my pocket or on my phone."
What’s your top tip for getting children excited about reading?
"Show them that you, yourself, enjoy reading, especially if you’re a father. Also, read out loud to them every night, from the time they’re small."

Jury with extensive knowledge
Rewarding the highest-quality work demands an expert knowledge of international children’s and YA literature as well as children’s rights and children’s reading. The twelve-member expert jury has the challenging but pleasant task of evaluating some of the world's most prominent candidates each year and selecting a laureate.
Find out more about the jury